As unfortunate as it is, children are often times the recipients of unnecessary suffering.

Wednesday, April 18, 2001

As unfortunate as it is, children are often times the recipients of unnecessary suffering.

Some are brought up in a hate-filled, stressful environment and have to be removed for their own well-being. Others are simply unwanted by their parents.

Thanks to the insight of local resident David Lambert, kids such as these may have a new lease on life.

Though it has not materialized to its full potential, Mended Reeds, a program initiated by Lambert, is beginning to have an impact in the community. Currently, the program offers counseling and, more importantly, compassion to children who are mistreated.

In January of this year, Mended Reeds began providing foster care and adoption services. Since that time, the group has recruited, trained and established 16 homes for foster care and adoption services. The group has also contracted the services of licensed counseling professionals, raised startup funds from local churches and opened an office in Ironton.

The group’s mission: to provide a better environment for abused children.

In the long run, the group wants to establish an emergency shelter for children who are victims of abuse and neglect – a place to provide children with a much-needed education and a resource point for the community. The group is currently seeking mental health professionals who would like to work with the children and volunteers to assist in following through with the mission.

Lambert and all involved with Mended Reeds deserve a tip of the hat. Because of their efforts underprivilaged children in Lawrence County and surrounding areas will have a place to go to start anew.