On the front lawn of the Blaine County Courthouse is a cluster of 45 wooden children. It might seem like a whimsical spring decoration, but the reality is much harsher.
Each wooden figure represents an abused or neglected child in 2022. They will remain in place all month in the hope that the display will raise awareness of abuse and neglect and that it does happen here, not just in bigger towns or cities.
The display is provided by CASA – Court Appointed Special Advocates – a group whose members serve as voices for the neglected and abused, providing hope and support to the victims.
The annual wooden children display is sponsored by businesses and individuals who donate to the organization. All the money raised goes toward expenses. Those include forensic interviews, advocacy, pediatric sexual abuse exams, child abuse response teams, visitation and child abuse education.
The sad fact is that the 45 wooden figures only represent the confirmed cases of abuse. There are multiple cases out there that have yet to be reported or are still under investigation, and those where the evidence was insufficient to bring charges.
Businesses or individuals who wish to make a donation and become a sponsor for a wooden figure are encouraged to either call (580) 2421153 or go online to www.flowcode.com/page/thecarecampus.
A blue lightbulb at a home or business also shows support for the program.