The staff of Niagara County Department of Social Services will “Wear Blue” on April 21, 2017 to commemorate Child Abuse Awareness Month. Staff, by wearing blue, show their commitment to prevent child abuse and support strong families. Commissioner Anthony J. Restaino also asked staff to wear a blue ribbon throughout the month as a symbol to raise awareness of the problem of child abuse.
Bonnie Finney began the tradition of using a blue ribbon to raise awareness of child abuse in 1989 when she tied a blue ribbon on the antenna of her van. Her grandchildren were subjected to child abuse throughout their young lives; her grandson was murdered, wrapped in a sheet and stuffed in a tool box dumped in a swamp. “I tied a blue ribbon on my van antenna to make people wonder”, Ms. Finney said. “I intend never to forget the battered, bruised bodies of my grandchildren. Blue serves as a constant reminder to me to fight for protection of our children.
Staff may also donate $1 to support the Child Advocacy Center of Niagara. “We are most grateful to Commissioner Restaino and all the staff of the Niagara County Department of Social Services for their support with Wear Blue Day. We are especially appreciative of their dedication and commitment every day in protecting our children.”
