Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas Highlights Child Abuse Prevention Month and Ways to Protect Children

Little Rock, AR – April is Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, educate communities, and empower people to prevent abuse before it happens. Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas (CACar) joins partners across the state in encouraging residents to recognize the signs of abuse, take action when they suspect it, and support children and families in need.

“In 2025, our statewide network of 18 Child Advocacy Centers served more than 12,000 children across Arkansas,” said Elizabeth Pulley, Executive Director of CACar. “While that number is alarming, we know many children never tell anyone. That’s why it is critical for adults to recognize the signs of abuse and have the courage to act.”

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According to the National Children’s Alliance (NCA) and other child safety organizations, key indicators of abuse may include:

● Physical signs, including bruises in uncommon places on the body ● Changes in behavior, such as aggression, anger, anxiety, or depression ● Fear of going home or reluctance to leave safe environments

● Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected in Arkansas, call 1‑844‑SAVE‑A‑CHILD (1‑844‑728‑3224) immediately.

CACar leads a statewide network of 18 Child Advocacy Centers and 64 Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs) that provide a coordinated, trauma-informed response to child abuse. These teams bring together law enforcement, child protection services, medical providers, mental health professionals, and prosecutors to ensure children receive the care and protection they need.

To learn more about CACar or find your local CAC, visit http://www.cacarkansas.org. For media inquiries, contact Emily Ingram at eingram@cacarkansas.org or 501-615-8633.

About Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas (CACar)

As the accredited state chapter of the National Children’s Alliance, CACar serves as the membership organization for Arkansas’ Child Advocacy Centers and works to develop, train, and sustain high-quality CACs and MDTs. Through advocacy, quality assurance, grant support, and strategic leadership, CACar strengthens collaboration and advances a coordinated response to child abuse across the state.