TIFTON — The Tift County Council on Child Abuse is flamingo flocking once again in an effort to raise awareness and funds for the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Every February, for more than 25 years, flocks of the lovable pink plastic birds have arrived and will appear daily in different yards across the county. Those who find a flock of flamingos inhabiting their yard are asked to pay a small “fee” to the Child Abuse Council to ensure their safe removal. As a bonus, the donor gets to choose the next temporary residence of the birds.

In 2024 the flamingos made their first visit to Nancy Bryan, who is a long-time supporter of the well-being of children and their families.Bryan  was a supporter before the pink flamingos joined the effort to spread awareness and prevent child abuse in Tift County.  She responded to having been selected by saying, “It is a pleasure to be the first “victim” of this year’s Flamingo Flocking by the Tift County Council on Child Abuse.  My whole career has had a common theme of protecting children and it’s a pleasure to be the first to show my support for all efforts to eliminate child abuse.”

Organizers said this is a fun way to raise funds for the fight against child abuse, and as the flocks travel to homes throughout the county, people passing by are also reminded of the urgent need to protect and serve our children. In 2022 there were 269 reports of child abuse and/or neglect in Tift County.

More volunteers are always needed to help prevent child abuse and neglect. Meetings are held at 11:45 a.m. the third Tuesday of each month at the Tift County Commission on Children & Youth/Family Connection Office at 418 N. Ridge Ave.

The Tift County Council on Child Abuse is a non-profit organization operated entirely by community volunteers with local financial support. If you are interested in supporting the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Tift County please call 229-382-5172, or email tiftcochildabusecouncil@gmail.com or by mail at 418 N. Ridge Ave., Tifton, GA.