HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) – In the wake of a heartbreaking tragedy, the Harlem community has united to demand change and raise awareness about mental health and child welfare.
The death of 4-year-old Jahmeik Modlin has shocked residents and ignited a call to action.
On Saturday morning, community members led by Reverend Al Sharpton and the National Action Network marched to Modlin’s home. They prayed and laid a wreath in memory of the young boy who was found unconscious in his apartment and later pronounced dead.
Among those providing comfort to the family was Stephanie McGraw, founder and CEO of We All Really Matter, a non-profit dedicated to supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence.
McGraw emphasized the collective responsibility of the community.
“We failed that child, every single last one of them because it was something that somebody could’ve said,” McGraw said.
The tragic case has revealed disturbing details about severe neglect and starvation affecting Modlin and his three siblings, all under the age of seven. Prosecutors allege that Modlin weighed only 19 pounds at the time of his death, while his siblings are so malnourished that they can only receive IV fluids.