Every April, National Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating safe, nurturing environments for children. At St. John’s Home for Children, we take this time to amplify our mission, increase awareness, and deepen our commitment to protecting children who have experienced emotional and behavioral challenges due to abuse and neglect.

By focusing on healing and resilience, we embrace change—not only in the lives of the boys we serve but also in the systems and communities that surround them.

Why Child Abuse Prevention Matters

Child abuse prevention isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 600,000 children were victims of abuse or neglect in 2022. Many more remain unseen or unsupported.

For boys ages 6–12 placed at St. John’s Home, abuse and neglect have left lasting impacts. They arrive carrying emotional wounds that require care, structure, and healing. That’s where our trauma-informed, therapeutic environment comes in.

A Residential Program That Makes a Difference

St. John’s Home is a licensed Residential Level II facility, located in Wheeling, West Virginia. We offer 24/7 care in a structured, supportive setting where children can begin to feel safe again.

Our services include:

• Individual, group, and family therapy

• Behavioral management and skills development

• Supportive counseling and recreation services

• Academic support and tutoring

• Family reunification planning

Each child’s treatment plan is tailored to their emotional and developmental needs. These services not only address trauma—they build confidence, routines, and healthier relationships.

Putting the FAMILY Values Into Practice

Our mission is rooted in our FAMILY values, which guide every interaction and decision:

• F – Family is essential to a child’s growth and healing.

• A – Accountability ensures consistent and ethical care.

• M – Making positive memories strengthens trust and connection.

• I – Integrity, innovation, and improvement guide our services.

• L – Love, dignity, and respect are extended to all.

• Y – “Yes, we can” represents our unwavering belief in every child’s potential.

These values come to life through weekly activities, daily routines, and personalized support.

Family Involvement and Long-Term Change

One of the most effective tools in breaking the cycle of abuse is family engagement. At St. John’s Home, we involve families in every step of the child’s progress, including:

• Weekly therapy and support sessions

• On-site visits and weekend home visits

• School collaboration and parent-teacher meetings

• Celebrations and milestones shared with loved ones

By helping families build stronger, healthier connections, we’re creating lasting support systems for children long after they leave our care.

Educational Support as a Stabilizing Force

Children placed at St. John’s Home attend public schools in Ohio County. Many arrive with IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) or prior academic gaps due to instability at home.

We work closely with teachers and school counselors to:

• Monitor academic progress

• Provide tutoring and extra support

• Reinforce classroom behavior expectations

• Celebrate achievements, big or small

Education is more than a daily task—it’s a path to self-worth and independence.

Consistency, Structure, and Emotional Healing

Rebuilding a child’s sense of safety takes time and consistency. We help reverse trauma by providing:

• Predictable routines that reduce anxiety

• Consistent caregivers who model empathy and respect

• Safe spaces to express emotion and learn coping skills

Every staff member is trained in therapeutic communication and trauma-informed care. Whether it’s a counselor, kitchen staff, or volunteer—each person is vital in restoring trust.

How You Can Help Support Children This April

National Child Abuse Prevention Month is a call to action. Here are a few ways you can support St. John’s Home for Children and be part of the change:

• Donate: Monetary and in-kind donations help provide meals, clothing, and educational materials.

• Volunteer: Share your time or talents—mentor a child, assist with events, or help in the garden.

• Spread Awareness: Share our mission and resources with friends, schools, and local organizations.

• Partner With Us: Local businesses and organizations can sponsor activities, fundraise, or host donation drives.

When we work together, we create stronger communities and better outcomes for children.

Championing Change, One Child at a Time

At St. John’s Home, every act of kindness helps a child heal. National Child Abuse Prevention Month reminds us that embracing change starts with support, education, and compassion. Together, we can build safer spaces and brighter futures for children who need it most.

Learn more about our programs and how you can get involved by visiting our Support Page.