April 16, 2025 -- Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak on Wednesday proclaimed April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Lackawanna County.

Child abuse and neglect are a serious problem impacting every segment of our community. Child abuse can have lifelong psychological, emotional and physical consequences for victims.

The collaborative efforts of the Office of Youth and Family Services, the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office and law enforcement from all Lackawanna County jurisdictions continue making strides to reduce or eliminate abuse risks and to promote social, emotional and developmental well-being of children.

We must work together as a community to increase awareness about child abuse and contribute to promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in a safe, stable and nurturing environment.

Pictured are, from left, Commissioner Bill Gaughan; Kerry Browning, Lackawanna County Office Youth & Family Services Director; Meghan Gagorik, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Executive Director; Ashley Ceccacci, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA; and Commissioner Chris Chermak.