LANSING – Michiganders have the chance to help protect children when they file their state income tax returns. A checkoff box on the state income tax return form allows residents to donate $5, $10 or more to go toward preventing child abuse in Michigan through the Children’s Trust Fund.

The Children’s Trust Fund – a nonprofit within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services – serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that help prevent child abuse and neglect.

“The Children’s Trust Fund relies on the generosity of donors to help fund important programs in local communities,” said Michael Foley, director of the Children’s Trust Fund. “We hope that Michiganders who are filing their state income taxes will consider supporting efforts to protect our most valuable resources – our children.”

The Children’s Trust Fund checkoff box is on the Voluntary Contribution Schedule Form 4642.

Michigan income tax return forms are available on the website for the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Find more information about the Children’s Trust Fund tax campaign on its website, including a toolkit for anyone who would like to promote the checkoff.