The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office had 175,314 investigated cases of child abuse reported last fiscal year. These numbers are staggering and not acceptable. Child abuse and neglect hurts more than our children and families; it hurts our entire community. The most immediate victims are children and families. Children suffer physical and emotional injuries, and parents suffer remorse and regret. A greater problem develops as the cycle of violence impacts the community. The prevention of child abuse became National Exchange’s Project in 1979, at the 61st National Convention, this year marks the 112th year for the National Exchange Club’s. The Northeast Exchange Club of St. Petersburg was established August 8, 1970 and for over 50 years our club has fundraised and completed community service projects to bring awareness to the real problem of Child Abuse in our community. Fundraising through one of first project St. Pete Regatta, 30 years of Rib Fest in Vinoy Park, 16 years of Strike Out Child Abuse Bowl A Thon and most recently our 3rd annual Brat Blast. The funds raised have helped build education centers and programs to help children and their parents.
Kenneth Welch, Mayor of the city of St. Petersburg, FL has issued a proclamation that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in the City of St. Petersburg.
The Northeast Exchange Club is bringing awareness of the child abuse problem to our community. On April 14 starting at 10 am through April 15 at 6pm, a display of 300 pinwheels will be display at the St. Petersburg Pier in front of the Family Park. Each of the 300 Pinwheel represents over 550 children who were reported and investigated abused last fiscal year from Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
For more information, please contact
Barbara Doyle Email bdoyle2274@gmail.com or Mobile 727-642-6790
President Northeast Exchange Club of St. Petersburg, FL