Barbecue is better when it buying it benefits others.

The 6^th Annual Smokin’ Out Child Abuse event is Tuesday, April 18, at Magnolia Blues BBQ Company.

The downtown Brookhaven restaurant will donate all of its proceeds from 3 p.m. until closing to the Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center.

The center is a place for child victims of abuse to share their stories in a safe, non-threatening, child-friendly environment. SMCAC serves Lincoln, Pike, Copiah, Amite and Walthall counties.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Carl and Anne Craig are the owners of Magnolia Blues, and Anne is a therapist at SMCAC. The non-profit provides numerous services for victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect. They conduct forensic interviews, provide therapy for victims and their families, and advocacy services, as well as educational opportunities for local schools.

“It’s free of charge,” Craig said. “Families never pay for any services that we provide.”

Craig and other therapists work with law enforcement, Department of Child Protective Services, prosecutors and attorneys to ensure that the children who need their services don’t fall through the cracks.