The fountain area in downtown Dillon was beautifully decorated with blue pinwheels in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Assault Awareness Month for the Light A Candle For Prevention Program.
An event was held to acknowledge the importance of the two months held by the Pee Dee Coalition and Guardian Ad Litem programs.
Mayor Tally McColl spoke about the importance of these two programs to the community and signed the proclamation below:
Dillon, South Carolina
Proclamation
Child Abuse Prevention
WHEREAS, South Carolina’s future prosperity and quality of life depend on the healthy development of the more than 1.1 million children residing in the diverse communities across our state; and 7,702 in Dillon County.
WHEREAS, preventing child abuse and neglect must be a priority that requires individuals, families, child-serving organizations, schools, faith-based groups, businesses, government agencies, and civic leaders to support the physical, emotional, social, and educational well-being of all children; and
WHEREAS, child abuse is a serious public health issue with wide-ranging societal consequences, as data show the link between the abuse and neglect of children and a wide range of costly medical, emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues into adulthood; and
WHEREAS, parents and caregivers who have a support system of family and friends, know where to find public resources, and understand how to remain resilient in challenging times are best equipped to provide safe, nurturing environments for their children; and
WHEREAS, statewide and community prevention programs serve as proven and effective ways to reduce child abuse and neglect no matter the geographic region, race or ethnicity, or economic status; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tally McColl, Mayor of Dillon in the great State of South Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 2025 as
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
throughout the town of Dillon. I encourage all South Carolinians to dedicate themselves to protecting the quality of life for every child.
Several made remarks about the importance of the month. The AKA Pearls Of Promise and Purpose presented the Pee Dee Coalition with a $200 check to the Women’s Shelter.
A candlelight vigil was held inside the City of Dillon Visitor Center at the program’s conclusion.
PHOTO GALLERY
Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC
