This Sunday, May 25, we pause to observe National Missing Children’s Day—a somber but necessary reminder of the thousands of children who go missing each year across our country. For many families, it’s not just a date on the calendar. It’s a day marked by grief, hope, and the tireless fight to bring their loved ones home.
The observance was first proclaimed in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, in honor of 6-year-old Etan Patz, who vanished from a New York City street in 1979. Etan’s disappearance sparked a national outcry and ultimately led to the founding of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) in 1984.
Since then, NCMEC has helped recover more than 450,000 missing children, with a 91% recovery rate in 2024 alone—a testament to the dedication of law enforcement, families, and everyday people who simply refuse to give up.
But our work is far from done.
This year, as NCMEC marks 40 years of service, they’ve reported a staggering 192% increase in online enticement cases—where adults use the internet to prey on children for sexual purposes, including sextortion. Over 546,000 reports were filed in 2024 alone. That number is more than a statistic—it’s a wake-up call.
Here in Newton County and all across Mississippi, our children deserve to be safe—whether they’re walking home from school or scrolling on a smartphone. We can all play a part in keeping them that way.
Here's how you can help:
• 📲 Share: Post a missing child’s photo from our area using the hashtag #MissingChildrensDay. It takes just one share to make a difference.
• 🧠 Educate: Have conversations with your children about personal safety and the risks that can come with being online. Visit missingkids.org/netsmartz for tools and tips.
• 📞 Report: If you have any information about a missing child, call 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
