It’s all about the kids and that statement holds true for the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). This Tuesday at 12:00 pm on the Court House steps, you're invited to the annual Pinwheel Ceremony.

During this month, the CAC plans community activities centered on prevention. The pinwheel is a symbol of childhood and a reminder that all children deserve to live carefree and in a home that is safe and nurturing. The pinwheel is the national symbol for child abuse prevention and a nationwide public awareness campaign.

In 2014, there were 583 confirmed cases of child abuse and neglect in Tom Green County. In Texas:

  • 182 children will be victims of abuse today
  • 7 children are maltreated every hour
  • Only 1 in 10 children tell someone about their abuse
  • 90% of the time, children are abused by someone they know

Additional awareness activities include "Go Blue Friday".  Blue is the national color for child abuse awareness and the community is encouraged to wear blue every Friday in April. The 10th Annual Picnic in the Park is scheduled for Sunday, April 19th from 2:00-4:00 pm at Kirby Park. The Picnic is a FREE event sponsored by the CAC to promote healthy and nurturing families with games, music, food and fun.

Awareness and education are paramount to preventing child abuse. If you suspect abuse, call the Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-252-5400 or call 911 if you believe the child is in immediate danger.

The Children's Advocacy Center of Tom Green County, Inc. strives to prevent child abuse and neglect and secure for each child a safe and nurturing home through four programs:  Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Hope House, Family Enrichment Services and Child Fatality Review Team. For more information, please contact Leann Hubert at (325) 653-4673 or http://www.cactomgreen.org

More From 96.5 KNRX