PORT BARRE, La. (KLFY)- Community members held the first annual Archangels Child Abuse Prevention event at Bosco's Specialty Meats, focused on taking action against the growing issues of child abuse in America.

Van Godeau, the organizer of the event, a shared how he believes child abuse has become an epidemic.

"It's time, oh my goodness, for something to be done, we have an epidemic of child abuse throughout the nation and complacency of our leaders," said Godeau.

At the event, there was food, music, and plenty of fun for the kids. Godeau said beyond raising awareness, their mission is to get child abuse prevention taught in schools.

"We attempting to get it into the schools, that's the primary objective, innocent people stand up to plead and get active in this, make it a high priority, make it a high priority," Godeau said.

Andre Moreau, a news anchor with Louisiana First News, also attended the event. Moreau shared with me he too experienced abuse as a child. Now, he said he's using his voice to speak for children who feel like they can't use theirs.

"I want to give children a voice because the young child, and I was eight when it started for me, doesn't tell anybody, we tell kids not to get in the car with a stranger, why wouldn't you tell them that there are predators out there that exist," Moreau said.

Moreau said he is grateful for the parents and children who showed up to take a stand but hopes even more families will join the cause.

"It's something that nobody wants to talk about, but I mean, I applause these parents, for being here with their children because they're way ahead of others who are not here or haven't had a chance to hear this message," Moreau said.

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