The Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania installed 655 pinwheels across Courthouse Square in Scranton , each representing a child served by the organization in 2025 due to allegations of abuse or neglect — over 100 more than in 2024, the nonprofit organization announced. The installation, unveiled Tuesday, marks the beginning of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month and serves as both a tribute and a call to action for the community, CAC officials added. Throughout 2025, CAC of NEPA provided forensic interviews, medical evaluations, victim advocacy, and evidence-based trauma therapy to the children from across northeastern Pennsylvania, all at no cost to families.The event brought together key members of Lackawanna County’s multidisciplinary team, including law enforcement, child welfare professionals, prosecutors, and community partners who work together through a coordinated, trauma-informed approach to reduce trauma, strengthen investigations, and ensure children and families have access to critical services, noted Jennifer P. Davis, executive assistant to Lackawanna County District Attorney Brian J. Gallagher.
Pinwheels are placed on the front lawn of the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton Tuesday, March 31, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Barrasse speaks during the press conference before the pinwheel presentation outside of the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton Tuesday, March 31, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Executive Director Meghan Lennox Gagorik speaks during the pinwheel presentation press conference outside of the Lackawanna County Courthouse in downtown Scranton Tuesday, March 31, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
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Pinwheels are placed on the front lawn of the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton Tuesday, March 31, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)