27-03-2025
Western Mass. flag raising ceremonies, events for Child Abuse Awareness Month
NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) – The Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) of Hampshire County is inviting the community to participate in a series of events this April in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month.
The month-long initiative will include flag-raising ceremonies across multiple towns and the 5th annual 'This Little Light of Mine' luminaria event, honoring those dedicated to protecting children.
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'These events serve as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and support our children,' said Kara McElhone, director of the CAC. 'By raising awareness and recognizing those who go above and beyond, we hope to inspire continued action toward a future free from child abuse.'
The 5th annual 'This Little Light of Mine' luminaria event will take place on Thursday, April 17, at 5:30 p.m. at the Garden House at Look Park in Florence. The evening will feature a brief program with guest speakers and an awards ceremony. This year, Belchertown Public Schools and the Belchertown Police Department will receive the Linda L. Pisano Award for Excellence, recognizing their outstanding dedication to ensuring children receive the protection and care they need.
The CAC is also organizing flag-raising events in several communities to publicly recognize Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month. These ceremonies, open to the public, will be held at the following locations and times:
Belchertown – Tuesday, April 1, 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Belchertown Town Hall (2 Jabish St.), followed by an open house at the new Belchertown CAC Office (37 Main St.)
Amherst 0 Tuesday, April 1, 4 p.m. at Amherst Town Commons
Easthampton – Wednesday, April 2, 9 to 9:30 a.m. at Easthampton City Hall (50 Payson Ave.)
Northampton – Wednesday, April 2, 10:30 to 11 a.m. at Northampton Police Station (29 Center St.)
South Hadley – Thursday, April 3, 10 to 10:30 a.m. at South Hadley Police Station (41 Bridge St.)
Hadley – Friday, April 4, 10 a.m., at Hadley Town Hall (100 Middle St.) in case of rain, the event will move inside the Hadley Public Library
The CAC encourages community members to attend these events and show their support for child advocacy efforts. Those interested in contributing to the organization's mission can donate to help fund advocacy programs, awareness initiatives, and essential resources for children in need.
For more information on the events or to make a donation, visit the Children's Advocacy Center's website.
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