West Virginia Department of Human Services Reports Statewide Progress in Child Abuse Prevention

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Human Services says new data shows measurable progress in child abuse prevention efforts, driven by community‑based services now operating in all 55 counties. Officials credit expanded early‑intervention programs with strengthening families, reducing risk factors, and improving outcomes for children.
“Prevention is one of the most effective tools we have to protect children,” said Alex Mayer, Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Human Services. “When families have access to support before a crisis occurs, outcomes improve for children, caregivers, and communities.”
The state’s prevention network is supported through federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Community‑Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) funding. These investments help sustain Family Support Centers, In‑Home Family Education programs, and Partners in Prevention initiatives. Together, they provide voluntary services that build parenting skills, increase social connections, and address challenges early—before they escalate to Child Protective Services involvement.
During fiscal year 2025, the West Virginia Family Survey gathered responses from 4,916 families statewide. Results showed improvement in four of the five nationally recognized protective factors linked to child abuse prevention, including family functioning and resilience, nurturing and attachment, social support, and caregiver engagement with service providers. Social support saw the largest gain, increasing 13.2 percent over the previous year.
DoHS leaders say these outcomes reflect a community‑first approach that blends federal, state, and private funding to deliver locally driven services. Supports include mobility‑mentoring for economic stability, evidence‑based parenting education, child development activities, and limited assistance with essential needs such as food access.
“These programs are an integral part of our work to support West Virginia families,” said Janie Cole, Commissioner of the Bureau for Family Assistance. “By offering early, voluntary support, we are helping families build skills, confidence, and stability while ensuring children remain safe and connected to their families and communities.”