Blue ribbons, pinwheels symbolize child abuse prevention.

Blue ribbons, pinwheels symbolize child abuse prevention. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth

HART — Local organizations had a Blue Ribbon Ceremony Thursday afternoon, April 18, at the Oceana County Courthouse in conjunction with April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Approximately 25-30 people from agencies, organizations and the community attended.

Oceana County Probate Judge Bradley Lambrix spoke about the importance of prevention and education for both sexual assault and child abuse. Lambrix read the Oceana County Board of Commissioners’ resolution that recognizes April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. He talked about “I ask,” and the importance of consent, which is the theme this year for sexual assault awareness.

Lambrix acknowledged the important work organizations are doing to help prevent and mitigate the negative impact sexual assault and child abuse cause in communites. Those organizations include COVE (Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters), Fountain Hill, CASA, the Department of Health and Human Services and other agencies. He referred to the blue pinwheel, which is the symbol for child abuse prevention. 

The event was co-hosted by COVE, Fountain Hill’s CASA Program and Oceana Children’s Trust Fund. The pinwheel cookies were made by Eva Kostal of The Harbor House of Hart.

Photos and content courtesy of Emily Santellan, advocate supervisor for CASA of Oceana County.