Those working on The Cross Project had trouble grasping that number, as well, for how does one visualize 19,000 children dying on a daily basis from something that can be prevented. How loud is the sound of 19,000 heartbeats, and how silent is it when those heartbeats stop?

The group’s goal is to build 19,000 simple wooden crosses from paint sticks and staples, and to place those crosses in the ground where people could see them. The hope is that when 19,000 becomes more than a statistic, people will see the magnitude of this tragedy and, as it becomes more personal, others will be moved to act on the situation.

Permission was granted, and a large number of the wooden crosses recently were placed on Chapman Hill, along with a large sign stating that each of the crosses represented a child who died of poverty-related causes.

Much to our disappointment, those crosses have been taken down. Surely, the person, or people, doing such an act neglected to read the posted sign explaining why each small cross was placed there. It’s sad to think of any in the community who would not support such a project.

For more information about how you can help with the ongoing project, visit www.facebook.com/TheCrossProject.

Ruth Pope

Bayfield