April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

SWEET HOME, Ore. March 23, 2022 —  April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. President Pro Tem Diane Gerson read the proclamation at Tuesday's city council meeting. She invited community members, community agencies, faith groups, medical facilities, elected leaders, and businesses to use the month to raise awareness and increase child abuse prevention in Sweet Home. 

The Sweet Home Police Department also invites the community to the annual planting of a blue pinwheel garden and the March for a Child down Main Street on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

"We invite everyone to plant the blue pinwheels to support our children," said Community Services Officer Sean Morgan. "We would love to see pinwheels the length of Main Street supporting thriving children and families." 

The day will begin with a brief presentation by Jen O'Connell-Baker, Executive Director of Every Child Linn Benton. Then participants will plant blue and silver pinwheels in front of the Sweet Home Police Department and walk from the police station to 15th Avenue and back. Afterward, attendees will enjoy a free hot dog lunch.

There are free pinwheels available at the Sweet Home Police Department, 1950 Main St; the Chamber of Commerce, 1575 Main St.; and The New Era, 1313 Main St. Donations will be accepted at each location on behalf of organizations that help protect children and seek justice for child abuse. The contributions will be divided among Every Child Linn Benton, ABC House, and Linn County Child Abuse Network. 

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For Additional Information Contact:
Sean Morgan, CSO
Sweet Home Police Department
541-367-5181
shpd@sweethomeor.gov