April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Members of the Tyler County Child Welfare Board, along with students of the Woodville National Honor Society and their sponsor, Melissa Fentress and members of the Woman’s Study Club of Woodville placed 172 blue crosses and pinwheels on the Courthouse lawn at the intersection of Hwys 69 and 190. These crosses were constructed by Mr. Brackin's 3rd and 4th period Principles of Construction classes and painted by NHS members.
The 172 blue crosses represent the number of children that died last year in Texas as a result of abuse and neglect. The Tyler County Child Welfare Board encourages everyone to call 1-800-252-5400 if you suspect the abuse or neglect of a child.
Last year in Tyler County there were 327 children reported to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (CPS) as being abused or neglected. Of the 327 reported CPS investigated 176. Of the 176 children, 91 were confirmed as victims. Of the 91 victims CPS opened 18 cases for services. Currently there are 26 children from Tyler County in foster care.