SMMC holds Child Abuse Awareness event
… and that's a wrap for another year. Howard County came together for the annual Stand Up event, to raise awareness for child abuse. Scenic Mountain Medical Center once again hosted, for the eighth year, an opportunity for the community to come together and speak out against child abuse. The evening opened with a proclamation from Mayor Shannon Thomason and music from the Forsan Elementary Honor Choir.
“This event continues to grow each year. We love to see the community join together for a good cause,” April Arms, event organizer, said. “One voice matters. One voice can make a difference, but put together a few hundred voices and that difference is even more impactful.”
More than 45 local organizations, school groups, businesses and local services were represented. Those attending
were able to gather information on local services for the youth of Howard County, hear specially selected music sung by local talent, and enjoy some good treats. There were games offered by several of the organizations and an opportunity to take part in karaoke and some dancing.
“Child abuse is something we would like to think doesn't exist in our community, but it does. Those dealing with abuse may feel that they don't have a voice, but they do, and events like Stand Up Howard
County let them know, people care, people are here for you,” Arms said.
According to statistics provided by Melonye Huber, Chief Nursing Officer at SMMC, one in seven children deal with some sort of abuse.
Howard County has numerous resources available for those who may be dealing with abuse or know someone who is. Services include those of Victim Services, Howard County Children's Advocacy Center, BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse), CASA of West Texas, and more. Other resources positively impacting the youth in Howard County that were also represented during the Stand Up event, included United Way of Big Spring and Howard County, Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club and other youth organizations.
“Our appreciation goes out to all those who helped make this year's event a success. We had an array of services represented and more than 500 community members come out and enjoy the festivities,” Arms said. “We even had a few special guests stop in: The Rugrats, Safety Pup, Buffy the Buffalo, and H-e-buddy. The smiles and laughter made the event that much sweeter.”
Child Abuse Awareness Month continues through the end of April.