‘Celebrate the Child’ brings fun and awareness to Yuma community
Samuel Kirk
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Families gathered Friday evening at 2363 S. Kennedy Lane for “Celebrate the Child,” a free community fair focused on child abuse prevention and family support.
The event, hosted by The Healing Journey Behavioral Health in partnership with Crossroads Mission Yuma, combined food, games, music, and education, creating a safe, fun space for children while connecting parents to vital resources.
“This free event…it’s hotdogs, popcorn, snowcones,” said Estrella Fitch, founder and CEO of The Healing Journey. “It’s about celebrating children, but also remembering that child abuse exists, and educating our families.”
Fitch said child abuse is still a harsh reality in many homes, and awareness efforts like this one can help families feel seen and supported.
“Children die every year from child abuse,” she said. “We need to tell parents and show them that there’s help out there for them.”
The message was echoed by Crossroads Mission PR Director Sassa Culver, who said the event was just as much about fun as it was about meaningful engagement.
“We’re super excited to be partnering with The Healing Journey,” Culver said. “It’s about bringing awareness to child abuse prevention and just having this fun, free event where kids can come and just be kids.”
In addition to food and games, community organizations hosted booths offering support for mental health, parenting resources, addiction recovery, and more.
While the event wrapped up by 6:30 p.m., organizers hope its impact lasts far longer, sparking important conversations and reminding families that help is always available.