The Hamilton Township Mayor’s Office, the Hamilton Township Police, Hamilton Township School District, and the Hamilton Area YMCA have united to create the Child Abuse Prevention Task Force, a community-wide effort focused on protecting children and supporting families through awareness, education, and access to trusted resources.
Child sexual abuse is a serious issue affecting families everywhere. Research indicates that:
1 in 10 children experiences sexual abuse before they turn 18.
In 93% of cases, the child knows and trusts the abuser.
60% of children who are sexually abused never disclose their experiences.
1 in 5 children is sexually assaulted online.
The CAP Task Force’s stated goal is to create a cohesive message shared throughout the township—raising awareness of child safety and ensuring families can access the resources and tools needed to prevent abuse, recognize warning signs, respond effectively, and ultimately keep children safe.
“Hamilton Township School District is committed to protecting all children in our community and supporting our Hamilton families. The CAP Task Force is united in this effort, and HTSD is proud to not only be a partner but an active member of the Task Force, so that we can educate and support children and families with consistent messages and vital information. HTSD stands shoulder to shoulder with our Task Force colleagues in the mission of protecting our children in Hamilton,” said Scott Rocco, superintendent of schools.
“Ensuring that children are safe, supported, and able to thrive is the highest priority of the YMCA,” said Diana Zita, CEO of the Hamilton Area YMCA. “We are committed not only to protecting children within our programs, but also to empowering families and the wider community with information that helps keep kids safe everywhere. It is the power of our community knowing, seeing, and responding that makes it harder for offenders to harm children.”
“Protecting children is one of our most sacred responsibilities. The Hamilton Township Police Division is proud to join our community partners in launching the Child Abuse Prevention Task Force—a united effort to raise awareness, educate families, and safeguard our youth,” said Chief Ken DeBoskey, Hamilton Police Division. “Child sexual abuse is a heartbreaking reality, and the statistics are deeply troubling. Prevention must begin before a crime occurs—with education, vigilance, and empowering families to recognize and respond to warning signs. Our officers are committed not only to enforcement but to being part of a proactive solution.
“Through this task force, we will strengthen partnerships, expand training, and ensure every child in Hamilton Township has the safety and support they deserve. To our families, we stand with you, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect our children and build a safer future.”
Monthly educational initiatives will include topics such as:
– Social media safety, cyberbullying, and technology awareness
– Preventing bullying and boosting self-esteem
– Teaching boundaries, consent, and the significance of “trusted adults”
– Safe supervision practices, such as sleepovers and choosing a babysitter.
– Sexual abuse prevention during Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month
For more details, visit: https://www.hamiltonymca.org/child-safety-child-abuse-prevention/child-abuse-prevention-task-force or visit the CAP Task Force Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580045904558.
