BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris brought attention to an issue that affects Union County’s most precious resource, its children.

Paris declared April Child Abuse Prevention Month, “Children are the key to the future…they are our most valuable resources, but also our most vulnerable. Child abuse and neglect can be prevented by supporting and strengthening families thus preventing the far-reaching effects of maltreatment.”

In 2020, Enotah CASA assisted in 295 child abuse cases in Union, Towns, White, and Lumpkin Counties. Blue and white pinwheels mark the square are a symbol of support for children and families struggling with the issue. There’s a pinwheel for each child assisted by Enotah CASA last year.

Enotah CASA provides each child in the court system an advocate for their best interests. The organization operates on grants, donations, and fundraisers.

Paris urged everyone in the community to become involved in protecting local children.

Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment act passed in 1974 and has experienced several amendments since that time. Still, the purpose remains the same to prevent child abuse and neglect.

In 1983, Child Abuse Prevention Month was proclaimed by Congress. The blue ribbon campaign started in Virginia by a grandmother who used the ribbons to remember her grandson who was a victim of child abuse.