March 28, 2024

Bake sale raises funds to help prevent child abuse

The Clarke County Prevent Child Abuse Council held a bake sale Wednesday, Nov. 23, at Fareway.

The council raised $375.

“The most popular baked goods were the pies and cookies,” said President Jen Mitchell.

The Prevent Child Abuse Council was formed to help alleviate family stressors and provide parents with the resources they need to do their very best. This includes meeting the needs of a growing Latin population in Osceola.

“Up until recently, we had a Spanish-speaking employee in our public health office,” said Clarke County Public Health Administrator Mackenzie Hickenbottom. “She left to further her education.”

However, the department has access to a telephone-based translation service to help bridge language barriers. In addition, there is a bilingual parent educator from the Parents and Teachers program on the council to ensure resources are available to all who need them.

The most common types of help available in Clarke County are food pantry referrals and financial assistance, but the council also shares general parenting advice and gets the word out about family activities taking place in and around Osceola.

“We set up at a lot of community events to give information to parents,” Mitchell said. “We’ve done the Easter egg hunts, the fire department open house, the Village preschool open house.”

To make a donation, assist in an event or find out more about opportunities for families needing help, contact Mitchell at 641-414-7105.