Office of Early Childhood designated as state agency responsible for programs and activities to prevent child abuse and neglect

The Office of Early Childhood shall be the lead state agency for community-based, prevention-focused programs and activities designed to strengthen and support families to prevent child abuse and neglect. The responsibilities of the office shall include, but not be limited to, collaborating with state agencies, hospitals, clinics, schools and community service organizations, to: (1) Initiate programs to support families at risk for child abuse or neglect; (2) assist organizations to recognize child abuse and neglect; (3) encourage community safety; (4) increase broad-based efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect; (5) create a network of agencies to advance child abuse and neglect prevention; and (6) increase public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues. The office, subject to available state, federal and private funding, shall be responsible for implementing and maintaining programs and services, including, but not limited to: (A) Connecticut Home Visiting System, established pursuant to section 17b-751b; (B) Help Me Grow; (C) family development training; (D) shaken baby syndrome prevention; (E) working with parents who are incarcerated; (F) promoting the work of doulas to help women with the highest risk of poor pregnancy outcomes to achieve healthy birth outcomes; and (G) supporting homeless diversion for families with young children.