Bikers from around the state gathered at West 60 Cycle in Neosho on Saturday for the Bikers Against Child Abuse Missouri State Rally hosted by the local chapters.
The bikers form a tough-looking extended family for children and families victimized by abusive situations. BACA members said they want to help children not to be afraid in the world they live in.
There are 15 BACA chapters in Missouri: Ava, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Chillicothe, Conway, Farmington, Kansas City, Liberal, Monett, New Florence, Ozark, Sedalia, West Plains and two in St. Louis.
People think of bikers and Christmas toy runs, but BACA does more.
Their slogan is “no child should live in fear.” Members connect with families by working with local and state law enforcement, children’s advocacy centers, prosecuting attorneys’ offices and district attorneys. Children are “adopted” into the group, giving them someone to call for backup.
Children are given road names – like the ones other B.A.C.A. members go by. The new member also gets a patch, sticker and the chance to pick out a bike to sit on.
Sometimes the bikers travel to the courtroom when the child testifies. Sometimes just knowing they are there is enough.
The Missouri state hotline for B.A.C.A. takes referrals for cases pending with the state at 877-773-8790, or visit the Web site at www.bacausa.com for more information.
