Today in Portage marked the 6th annual Grandmothers Walk to raise awareness about child sexual exploitation around the world.

Organizer Debbie Parker was happy with the turnout, and says more people were in attendance than last year, though she was hoping more adults would be there to show support, especially those from other agencies and businesses.

She says it was good to see PCI send some of the youth from the high school over to participate to listen, learn and walk. Parker says children should be everyone's concern.

"All children are our responsibility; it's everybody's business. It's not just mine or the grandmother walking down the street... it's a big deal," stresses Parker.

The need for children to have support and someone to listen to is also very important, notes Parker. She praises the Portage Friendship Centre as a place with an open-door policy for anyone who needs a listening ear.

"Just to know they are loved and not alone and they can come and talk anytime they want... The Portage Friendship Centre is really good about that," states Parker.

Having proper resources is essential as well, says Parker.

"We try to get them to that point where if they need to disclose, we have the proper channels and resources for them to stay safe," Parker explains.

The walk took place from Eagles Fire up Saskatchewan Avenue to 3rd ST NE.