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Local News

Prevention of child abuse is the Family Support Center of Barry County's goal

The Hastings City Council Monday recognized April as Child Abuse Prevention Month with a proclamation presented to Kim Metzger and Karen Jousma from the Family Support Center of Barry County.

 

The Center is a non-profit child advocacy agency with the mission of preventing child abuse, ensuring safety, eliminating all forms of neglect, and providing education and guidance for abused/neglected children and at-risk parents.

 

Mayor David Tossava read the proclamation that said child abuse and neglect is one of the greatest risks to the health and wellbeing of Barry County children. The Family Support Center is designated by the Michigan Trust Fund to lead alongside local community-based programs to assist in expediting efforts to prevent child abuse now and in future generations through joint interagency prevention efforts.

 

In Barry County is 2018, 222 children between 0 and 17 were confirmed victims of child abuse and neglect by Children’s Protective Services.

 

“The most precious and valuable asset of our county is our children and we must dedicate ourselves, our energy and our resources to the nurturing and protection of these most vulnerable individuals-protecting children and strengthening Barry County families is a shared community responsibility,” Tossava said.

 

Metzger told the council they were very grateful for its support of their efforts in education, advocacy and awareness.  She said they are working to changing the culture, “so that seeking help and support is a good thing, and it’s okay.”

Jousma gave each council member a bright blue pinwheel.

 

The Family Support Center of Barry County will install pinwheels in the flower garden at Hastings City Hall, in flower boxes in the city and throughout Barry County. The pinwheels are whimsical; something every child should have a chance to be, Jousma said.

 

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