RIDGWAY — It was instantly obvious on the way to the Elk County Commissioner meeting Tuesday that it was a special day.
Dozens of blue and silver pinwheels spun in the wind outside the entrance way to raise awareness about child abuse prevention.
“Pinwheels are the national symbol for child abuse prevention through Pinwheels for Prevention,” Nancy Baker, the Elk County Children and Youth director, said during Tuesday’s commissioners’ meeting.
Pinwheels are associated with children playing and having a good time, she said. We all want to see happy children not the sad and unfortunate statistics of child abuse, she added.
Child abuse occurs throughout the county, state and country, to children in every socioeconomic class. Children and Youth workers do the best they can, but it takes a village to raise a child and a village is needed to protect them as well, Baker said.
Suspected child abuse can be reported by calling the Childline at (800) 932-0313.
Throughout April blue pinwheels will be placed throughout Elk County to serve as a reminder of the childhood everyone wants for their children, Baker said.
“Everyone’s participation is critical. Focusing on ways to connect with families is the best thing our community can do to strengthen families and prevent child abuse and neglect,” a release from children and youth says.
More information about caring for children can be found on the Elk County Children and Youth website at www.countyofelkpa.com on the children and youth tabs. Parenting tips, as well as information about how to become a foster parent, can be found on the site as well.
The Elk County Commissioners signed a proclamation recognizing April as child abuse prevention month
The following county notes were also made during Tuesday’s commissioners’ meeting:
A U.S. Route 219 (Ridgway-Johnsonburg Road) bridge, which crosses Powers Run at the south end of Johnsonburg, is scheduled to be replaced this month as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Rapid Bridge Replacement project. Construction is expected to begin the week of April 10 and be completed in September. During this time drivers will be able to use a temporary roadway around the bridge.
The Elk County Recycling Center, 850 Washington St., St. Marys, will hold an open house from noon to 5 p.m., April 13.
There will not be any electronics recycling in St. Marys this month due to Easter weekend.
