Local professionals and community advocates attended the Annual Breakfast meeting of the Greater Fall River Child Protection Council (CPC) at White's Restaurant on November 6, 2013. Awards were given to Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Peter McCarthy and HealthFirst Family Care Center CEO Julie Almond. A special award was given to Linda Hennessey of HealthFirst for her advocacy on behalf of children. The keynote presentation on Food and Nutrition Tips to Prevent Childhood Obesity was given by Kathy Ireland of the Boston Medical Center. Formed in 1976 as a project of the Clinical Social Work Department of St. Anne's Hospital, the Child Protection Council deals with issues and problems related to the network of children's protection care. The Council also provides cash assistance to single parents in need through Gammons funds. Click here for a video of the awards presentation, and click here for a video of Ms. Ireland's presentation. For further information about the Council, contact chairpersons Joseph DaSilva at 508-675-3500

(Top row) Council members help themselves to breakfast and good conversation while Child Protection Council treasurer Beverly Souza talks with Debra Paulino of BMC HealthNet Plan.(Middle row) Fall River Housing Authority Family and Youth Services Coordinator and Council Chairperson Joey DaSilva introduces Keynote Speaker Kathy Ireland, MS, RD, LDN, of Boston Medical Center who spoke about Food and Nutrition Tips to Prevent Childhood Obesity as HealthFirst staff Paula Harrison, retired, Linda Hennessey, and Betty Nunes listen. (Bottom row) Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Peter McCarthy, HealthFirst Family Care Center CEO Julie Almond andLinda Hennessey of HealthFirst were recognized by the Council.