At Hemlock Public School District, the safety and well-being of our students are always top priorities. To further support our families and proactively prepare for the unthinkable, we are proud to announce a partnership with St. Charles Masonic Lodge No. 313 to provide parents with a vital resource—a Child Identification Kit. This initiative is designed to empower families with tools to quickly assist law enforcement in the case of child abduction or other emergencies. Please stop by our elementary and middle school offices or request a kit sent home with your child via email to the building secretary.
Why This Matters: In the State of Michigan, the reality of child abduction and human trafficking is deeply concerning. According to the Michigan State Police, over 20,000 children are reported missing each year in Michigan, though most are found within 24 hours. Tragically, some cases result in prolonged searches, and in a few instances, children are never found. This heartbreaking reality underscores the importance of being prepared.
Human trafficking is another serious issue in Michigan. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 364 cases in Michigan in 2022 alone, placing the state 9th in the nation for trafficking cases. Many victims of trafficking are minors, making it crucial for families and communities to be vigilant and proactive.
What the Child Identification Kit Provides: The Child Identification Kit offers a simple, effective way to help parents keep key identifying information about their child in a secure, easily accessible place. This information, such as photos, fingerprints, and descriptions, can be vital to law enforcement in the critical hours following a child's disappearance. The kit empowers families to be prepared for emergencies that we hope never happen.
Taking Proactive Steps to Protect Our Students and Families: By partnering with St. Charles Masonic Lodge No. 313, we are making it easier for parents to access these critical tools. We want to be on the forefront of helping our students and families, and this initiative is one way to provide peace of mind and a layer of security in uncertain times.
Working Together for a Safer Community: In these challenging times, it is essential that we come together as a community to protect our children. Our partnership with St. Charles Masonic Lodge No. 313 is a powerful reminder that safety is a shared responsibility, and together, we can take proactive steps to support the well-being of our students and families.
By utilizing these resources and remaining vigilant, we hope to strengthen the safety net around our students and help prevent the unthinkable from ever becoming a reality. Let’s work together to keep our community strong and our children safe.
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