Nearly 6000 Colorado Children Experienced Abuse or Neglect in 2025

DENVER (April 1, 2026) —  State data shows that in 2025, nearly 6,000 Colorado children were victims of abuse or neglect. That means about five out of every 1,000 children in the state were subject to maltreatment. During Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is observed every April, the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) is reminding Coloradans that one of the most effective ways to protect children is to support families early and often.

While parenting is one of life’s most rewarding journeys, it can also be challenging. Having a healthy, active support system makes it easier for caregivers to navigate moments of stress, seek help in times of need, and overcome the obstacles that every family faces. By leaning on one another, communities can create a safety net that prevents crises before they begin.

“When families have the right help at the right time, they are better able to keep their children safe, stable and nurtured,” said Minna Castillo, deputy executive director of Community Partnerships at CDHS. “By providing a strong foundation of support, we aren’t just keeping children safe, we are helping entire families thrive.”

Colorado offers essential programs through the Colorado PEAK platform to help families build  a strong foundation by meeting their basic needs. These include:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps families afford nutritious food.
• Health First Colorado (Medicaid) provides medical, dental and behavioral health coverage.
• Colorado Works (TANF) offers monthly cash assistance and job coaching.
• Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) helps with winter heating bills.

Families can also access early childhood support through PEAK, including Nurse-Family Partnership for new parents, Colorado Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program for nutrition education, and SafeCare® Colorado to strengthen parenting skills. The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program helps families experiencing homelessness or seeking employment access reliable, high-quality child care.

Community organizations play an equally important role. For example, Illuminate Colorado offers programs to strengthen families, including Circle of Parents, giving parents and caregivers a supportive place to connect. 

“Every parent needs support,” said Toni Miner, Circle of Parents program manager. “Sometimes parenting can feel overwhelming and families need a place to talk about their success and challenges.” 

For Amanda, a Colorado parent, finding this community was transformative. After joining Circle of Parents, she found a sense of belonging. “One thing I love about Circle of Parents is that it’s led by parents, for parents,” she shared. “You aren’t judged here—we’re all in this together, and we’re all trying to be better for our kids.”

Community advocates such as Reyna Zarate emphasize that breaking the cycle of isolation is a community-wide responsibility. “Many Latino families aren’t sure where to go for help,” Zarate said. “By connecting them with resources, we help them overcome challenges and keep their children safe.”

Everyone has a role to play in strengthening Colorado families. You can make a difference by:

• Connecting: Invite friends and neighbors to the 2026 CO4Kids Resource Fair.
• Being a Resource: Share the 2025 CO4Kids Partner Organization List with anyone who needs help.
• Offering Support: There are more than 50 ways to help strengthen families, which include things as simple as checking in on a family.
• Staying Informed: Learn the signs of child abuse and neglect.
• Being Their Voice: If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS (844-264-5437).

When families have support, connection and access to resources, they are better equipped to provide safe, loving homes for their children and youth.

For more information on child abuse prevention, visit the CO4Kids website or follow CO4Kids on Instagram and Facebook.

About the Office of Children, Aging and Community Services

The Office of Children, Aging, and Community Services (OCACS) is an office within the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) dedicated to promoting the safety, permanency and well-being of Coloradans of all ages. OCACS provides statewide leadership, funding, policy development and oversight in partnership with county human services departments, Tribes, Area Agencies on Aging and community organizations. OCACS oversees Child Welfare, Community Programs, and Aging and Adult Protective Services, which collectively ensure consistent and effective service delivery for vulnerable populations across their lifespans.