CULLMAN – The local non-profit organization, Cullman Caring for Kids (CCK), along with a few dozen advocates and supporters, gathered around the courthouse recently to pray for the leaders of the county. A balloon release followed to remember those lost, and to send a message to children that are being abused that there are people who care.
The 2015 Walk for Children began with the handing out of white crosses and signs to participants. Each cross bore the name of one of the 18 children who were killed in Alabama this year from abuse and neglect. Participant Lana Thornton, who works as a court appointed advocate for CCK’s program, held tight to Cullman’s own victim Hoss Wayne Benham, who was killed in spring of 2014.
We want to thank everyone who joined us in the prayer walk yesterday and balloon release. Over the coarse of today and…
Posted by Cullman Caring for Kids on Wednesday, April 8, 2015
“When it came out in the news about the details of what happened to Hoss and how he was tortured, it hit me hard,” said Thornton. “I mean this happened in Vinemont and I am from Vinemont. Just knowing that there were people that saw some of the signs and didn’t want to get involved or do anything was just so sad to me. So I just wanted to be involved and help.”
Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry attended the event to remember the children and the struggles they face as it is a struggle law enforcement knows all too well.
“It’s an issue that we have to face every day as law enforcement officers,” Gentry said.
“It is something that is near and dear to our hearts and we just keep on every day trying to educate the public. Events like today are important to educate people, because our goal is to stop child abuse.”
After a reflective prayer walk around the courthouse, an emotional speech was given by Javon Daniel, director of Cullman Caring for Kids, before releasing the balloons atop the parking deck at Cullman Savings Bank.
“Child abuse happens every minute of every day,” a passionate Daniel said. “Right here in our community. It’s not in a a far-off place, it’s right here, and last year there were 849 cases of child abuse reported to DHR in Cullman. In Alabama, 18 children died, and that is why we are releasing these balloons. This is to remember those who have died, those who are still victims, and those who are survivors. The important thing about today is that children are abused, and the only people who can do something about it is us!”
One hundred blue balloons, which represent the bruises of all the children being hurt, gently drifted up into the sky as they served as a remembrance, but also a sign of hope for any child that is suffering. The release of the balloons served as a reminder that people do care, and that they are fighting to stop the madness and useless violence committed against innocent children every day.
For more information on upcoming events and information on child abuse visit, Facebook.com/CullmanCaringForKids.
If you suspect child abuse, do not hesitate, call anonymously to Cullman County DHR at 256-737-5300 or call 911.
