Social Workers Stepping Up

Social Workers Stepping Up

Tyler druin and 44news when schools first shut down in march --- 18 cases of abuse were reported over the next four months-- across 90 indiana schools where youth first has social workers-- and now that kids are back in the classroom-- they've seen nearly 50 abuse reports - since june 1st.

44news reporter marisa patwa takes a look at the efforts to protect our children.

Some students are still stuck at home with their abusers while others can't seem to be tracked down these are two of the biggest challenges facing youth first social workers in schools during the pandemic.

"there are a lot of students who are transient -- so of course, they don't have permanent homes, permanent housing, they don't have access to interment."

And social workers are asking for extra help from students to check in on their classmates -- "if you see something, say something.

Fortunately, the students at harrison are really good about letting their favorite teacher or me know if they are concerned about something with a friend or a student they go to school with."

Now every year youth first dedicates a champion award to someone who has made an incredible impact on the community - lt.

Gov suzanne crouch has even been a past winner -- but this year, their 72 social workers and program staff are the champions.

"when schools closed in the spring, our team stayed on the job, making sure that kids and families and teachers had the support they needed to get through these very stressful times.

And they continue to make sure kids had food and families were taken care of."

And from parents to principals -- they are grateful for the impact these social workers are making during this tumultuous year.

"our life is made a heck of a lot easier with the support of our youth first social worker.

The undying love and dedication has helped countless students save lives -- no doubt about it."

Resiliency resources are available for families on youth firsts website.

Reporting in evansville marisa patwa 44news