Susanville residents and visitors may have wondered why they are suddenly spotting blue pinwheels in the gardens of public buildings and at some private homes throughout the area.
“Pinwheels bring back memories of childhood, carefree innocence, and days of fun and laughter,” explains Lassen Family Services’ Executive Director Melissa Downing. “However, they also stand as the symbol representing a national effort to raise public awareness of child abuse and neglect.”
Child abuse is a widespread problem in our society — in 2013 almost 700,000 victims of child abuse or neglect were reported in the United States, and locally, Lassen Family Services, a crisis intervention service agency, served 383 children in its programs.
“Awareness is the first step in prevention,” said Downing. “We must work together as a community to increase awareness about child abuse and contribute to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families in a safe, stable, nurturing environment.”
Call or email Tori French, 530-257-4599 or [email protected], to find out how you can help.
For more information about child abuse prevention programs, please contact Lassen Family Services at 1306 Riverside Drive, Susanville, call 530-257-4599, visit their website at www.lassenfamilyservices.org, or connect with LFS on Facebook.
