BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

Several local agencies kicked off National Child Abuse Prevention Month on Thursday with a series of events in Iredell and Alexander counties.

Representatives of Children’s Hope Alliance, Department of Social Services, Dove House, Guardian ad Litem of NC, Pharos Parenting, Iredell County Partnership for Young Children, law enforcement officers, stood in solidarity during the “Tie a Tree” event at the corner of Water and Tradd streets in Statesville.

Karen Thompson, program administrator for DSS, said the purpose of the event is to help “eradicate child abuse.”

“It’s up to us to protect our most vulnerable population,” she said. “We need to talk to parents and families and impart wisdom.”

Policies and programs that support home visits, and family strengthening, economic stability, and community support are all worthwhile, Thompson said.

District Attorney Sarah Kirkman said the theme of “Building a Hopeful Future Together“ was appropriate with the huge show of support.

“All these agencies and I are working together to,” she said. “I just want to thank everybody for being here.”

Statesville Mayor Kutteh read a proclamation declaring April 2024 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

“It’s important that we collaborate. It makes easier and more meaningful partnerships,” he said.
Kutteh quoted Aristotle, saying, “It really is amazing what you can accomplish when it doesn’t matter who gets the credit.”