July 28, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni is inviting faith-based leaders, clergy, staff, and volunteers from across Hampden County to attend a free training designed to help them recognize and appropriately respond to concerns of child abuse and neglect.

The training, “The Dos & Don’ts of 51A Reporting,” will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Participants may attend in person at Tower Square, 21st Floor, 1500 Main Street in Springfield, or virtually via Zoom. Parking will be validated at the Columbus Center Garage.

Presented by Assistant District Attorney Eileen Sears, the training will provide practical guidance to help faith-based community members understand their legal responsibilities and confidently respond when concerns about child abuse or neglect arise.

Topics will include:

• How to respond when a child discloses abuse.
• When and how to contact the appropriate authorities.
• The legal and ethical responsibilities associated with filing a 51A report.
• Additional best practices for supporting children while following the appropriate reporting procedures.

Under Massachusetts law, a 51A report is filed with the Department of Children and Families when there is reasonable cause to believe a child is suffering physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse or neglect. Because members of faith communities are often among the trusted adults children turn to in difficult moments, understanding how to respond appropriately can play a critical role in protecting vulnerable children.

“Faith leaders and members of our faith-based community are often among the first people children and families turn to in times of crisis,” said District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. “This training is designed to ensure those trusted individuals have the knowledge and confidence to respond appropriately, fulfill their legal responsibilities, and ultimately help protect the children in our communities.”

Whether attending in person or virtually, participants are asked to RSVP in advance using the registration form: https://bit.ly/51ATRAINING. The Hampden District Attorney’s Office encourages faith-based organizations throughout Hampden County to share this opportunity with clergy, youth leaders, volunteers, and others who work with children and families. Questions may be directed to Gina Anselmo at Gina.Anselmo@mass.gov.

In addition to this training, the Hampden District Attorney’s Office offers free 51A reporting presentations throughout the year to educators at schools and other community groups. Organizations interested in hosting a training for their staff, volunteers, or members are encouraged to contact the District Attorney’s Office at Gina.Anselmo@mass.gov to learn more or schedule a presentation.