NORTHAMPTON, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — The Children’s Advocacy Center is preparing a host of community events for Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month in April. This Little Light of Mine Luminary is set for Thursday, April 12th at 5:30 p.m. at Look Park with speakers and an award ceremony to honor those committed to protecting children.
From the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office:
CAC invites community to mark child abuse awareness month
NORTHAMPTON — The Children’s Advocacy Center of Hampshire County is gearing up for a series of activities to mark Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month in April, including flag-raising ceremonies and the 5th annual luminaria to honor those committed to protecting children. The public is invited.
“These events serve as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and support our children,” said CAC Director Kara McElhone. “By raising awareness and recognizing those who go above and beyond, we hope to inspire continued action toward a future free from child abuse.”
This Little Light Of Mine Luminaria, set for Thursday, April 17, at 5:30 p.m. at the Garden House at Look Park, will feature a brief program of speakers and an awards ceremony. The Belchertown Public Schools and Police Department will be honored with the Linda L. Pisano Award for Excellence given to individuals or organizations demonstrating extraordinary dedication to ensuring children receive the care and protection they deserve.
Flag raising events are:
● Belchertown Flag Raising & Open House: Flag raised at the Town Hall, 2 Jabish St., followed by an open house at the new Belchertown CAC Office, 37 Main St. Tuesday, April 1, 9:30–11 a.m.
● Amherst Flag Raising on the Town Common, April 1, 4 p.m.
● Easthampton Flag Raising in front of City Hall, 50 Payson Ave., April 2, 9-9:30 a.m.
● Northampton Flag Raising at the Police Station, 29 Center St., April 2, 10:30-11 a.m.
● South Hadley Flag Raising at the Police Station, 41 Bridge St., April 3, 10-10:30 a.m.
● Hadley Flag Raising in front of Town Hall, 100 Middle St., (if raining, inside the Hadley Public Library), April 4, 10 a.m.
The community is encouraged to attend these events. To support the work of the CAC, people can donate to help fund advocacy programs, awareness initiatives, and essential resources for children in need. To make a donation, visit the Children’s Advocacy Center’s website.