Shine a Light on Our Kids

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month and Graham’s Virginia’s House is taking this time to raise awareness about child abuse and show appreciation to the volunteers that help advocate and mentor children coming from difficult situations.

Susie Clack, Director of Virginia’s House, explained the children’s advocacy center, which serves Young, Stephens and Throckmorton Counties, has a mission to meet the needs of abuse, neglected and traumatized children through various programs focused on advocacy and support. During the month of April, the organization helps shine a light on the neglect and abuse of children.

“It (Child Abuse Awareness Month) is more or less a time to focus on the neglect and abuse in our communities that we serve,” Clack said. “It surrounds the children, and the darkness that some children have in their lives.”

She explains that this year’s theme is ‘Shine a Light on Our Kids’.

“A lot of kids have a darkness in their lives when there’s neglect or abuse in their home or in their lives,” Clack said. “So the way that we can assist and serve them is to just be more aware as adults, to be more aware of the signs of abuse and neglect and to report it. To report the signs, and if the child actually comes to you, me or any of us, it is our duty to report it.”

With COVID-19 regulations and restrictions, the organization is having to view this month a little differently. The organization would normally have gatherings and come together to recognize their volunteers.

For the full story, see the Saturday, April 11 edition of The Graham Leader.