AUGUSTA – On Wednesday, May 18, a group of foster parents, child care providers and families of children who have died in state care will join Sen. Bill Diamond, D-Windham, and Sen. Jeff Timberlake, R-Turner, for a press conference and rally at the State House to call attention to the need to reform Maine’s child protection system.

Members of the press and the public are welcome to attend. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue, the color of child abuse prevention.

Last year was the deadliest year on record for Maine children, with the Office of Child and Family Services tracking 29 deaths. That number does not include four child homicides that took place last year; in all four cases, parents have been charged with murder or manslaughter and are awaiting trial. The rally comes amid the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability’s ongoing investigation into Maine’s child protection system.

WHAT: Press conference to reform Maine’s child protection system

WHO: Sen. Bill Diamond, Sen. Jeff Timberlake, Maine foster parents, child care providers, and family members of children who have died in state care

WHEN: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 18

WHERE: Between the Maine State House and the Cross Building

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call 1-800-452-1999. If you have questions or concerns about a child protective services case, you can contact the Ombudsman’s office at 1-866-621-0758. For emergencies, dial 911 or call your local police department.