HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 1, 2026) – A powerful sense of unity and purpose filled the State Capitol today as “Lean on Me” rang out, bringing together policymakers, advocates, business and community leaders, students, and the Pa Family Support Alliance (PFSA). The gathering recognized four Pennsylvanians whose extraordinary dedication has helped safeguard children and strengthen families across the Commonwealth. Pictures, videos, interviews and short b-roll clips from today’s flag planting and award ceremony can be found here.

“April is a critical moment to shine a light on child abuse and neglect — issues that continue to impact far too many children and families,” said Angela Liddle, President and CEO of PFSA. “These are not easy subjects to confront, but lasting change depends on our willingness to face them together. Our PA Blue Ribbon Champions for Safe Kids embody the profound influence one committed person can have in protecting a child’s future. We are thankful for the steadfast partnership and leadership of the Shapiro administration in advancing prevention and supporting Pennsylvania’s children.”

The four honorees, recognized as Blue Ribbon Champions for Safe Kids, were presented with awards celebrating their unwavering commitment to protecting children across Pennsylvania. Selected by an independent panel of judges from nominations submitted statewide, the recipients reflect a broad spectrum of educators and advocates dedicated to prevention. PFSA, the Commonwealth’s leading organization focused on child abuse prevention, has presented these awards annually for the past nine years.

The 2026 Blue Ribbon Champions for Safe Kids are: 

• Jane Kim, Director of Client Engagement and Initiatives, Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center (Montgomery County resident)
• Detective Ernie Morris, Limerick Township Police Department (Montgomery County resident)
• Shana Orlic, ParentWISE Program Supervisor, Wesley Family Services (Westmoreland County resident)
• Kristen C. Streightiff, M.Ed., Director of Student Services, Mount Union Area School District (Huntingdon County resident)

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month, the Capitol and bridges in downtown Harrisburg will be illuminated in blue through April 2 at the request of PFSA. Blue is the national color symbolizing child abuse prevention awareness.

The ceremony also featured performances by Camp Hill High School RoaR and the Camp Hill High School Flute Quartet, and included participation from numerous state and local elected officials. 

To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call Childline at 1-800-832-0313 or visit https://dhs.pa.gov/reportabuse.

Media Contact: Thom Casey, [email protected], (717) 514-5759

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About Pa Family Support Alliance

Pa Family Support Alliance, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, prevents child abuse and protects children from harm by helping parents learn positive parenting techniques, educating professionals and volunteers who work with children to recognize and report child abuse, and helping community members learn how they can play a positive role in keeping children safe. To learn more about our programs, schedule a training, or make a donation, please visit pafsa.org, or call 800-448-4906.