For the third year in a row Kentucky ranks number one in the nation in the rate of substantiated reports of child abuse. Over the last year, too many children have been in isolation with their perpetrators with no way to tell a safe adult. The Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center provides services to victims of child sexual abuse and severe physical abuse. Our agency saw a 92% increase in requests for forensic interviews in one quarter as children returned to school last August. We expect another surge in referrals as most children have now returned to school four days per week.
You may be asking, “What can I do to help bring awareness to these issues?” April has been designated as Child Abuse Prevention month and we are calling on our communities to get involved. Throughout the month we have many opportunities that encourage you to take a stand and support our No Excuse for Abuse campaign. Blue is significant as it represents the bruises often left behind and encourages people to continue to advocate for the protection of children.
The following businesses have answered the call and will be promoting special events or “blue” products to spread awareness. Like our Facebook page for more details (Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center).
• Chaney’s Dairy Barn
• The Cake Shop
• Riley’s Bakery
• Fluffy Puff Cotton Candy
• Buff City Soap
• Orange Theory
• Little Fox Bakery
• Q Coffee Emporium
• Deemer’s Floral Co will provide a door-sized blue bow for $8 upon request.
For the thrill seekers, another great way to raise awareness is to register and participate in the 22nd Annual Great Teddy Bear Drop n’ Ride. While we still cannot meet in one large group, the Drop n’ Ride is set to run on April 23rd and April 24th, 2021. You may choose from destination routes, including one drop which will take place live on WBKO’s “Midday Live” April 23rd. Riders will receive a 2021 pin, a discount card to area businesses and be entered for a chance to win nice prizes including at $250 Harley-Davidson Bowling Green gift card for visiting each of the card’s supporting businesses during the month of April. At Harley-Davidson on Saturday, April 24th, Crave by Home Café will be on site for lunch, plus Tin Roof coffee and Tropical Treats. Tony Rose and D93 will kick things off at 9am and Alan Austin of WBVR will be there from 11am-1pm. The prize drawings will be held at 1pm.
For family activities all month long, we have created a No Excuse for Abuse activity awareness kit. With a suggested $25 donation, your family will receive:
• Pinwheels for planting
• Stickers
• Blue Ribbon cookie cutter and recipe
• Pinwheel coloring pages
• Bubbles
• Balloons
• Make your own pinwheel activity sheet.
We also encourage you to think outside the box and be creative in your awareness efforts.
Don’t forget to tag us in your awareness adventures all month long! @childadvocacyct #BRACAC #ChewsToBeTheEnd.
-submitted by BRACAC
