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REPORT CHILD ABUSE

Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. It is important for every person to take child abuse and neglect seriously, be able to recognize it and know what to do next. Report suspected child abuse or neglect online here. In an emergency, call 1-800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873).

Report Child Abuse

Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect

We all have a shared interest and responsibility to promote the common good by putting an end to child abuse and neglect.  Communities must build positive futures together in partnership. 
Visit DCFS.illinois.gov/safe-kids  and Prevent Child Abuse Illinois for more information.
Learn about Adverse Childhood Experiences here
CDC Prevent ACES Now

 

Child Abuse

Child abuse is the mistreatment of a child under the age of 18 by:

  • A parent or their romantic partner.
  • An immediate relative or someone living in their home.
  • A caretaker such as a babysitter or daycare worker.
  • Any person responsible for the child’s welfare, such as a health care provider, educator, coach or youth program volunteer.

The mistreatment can either result in injury or put the child at serious risk of injury. Child abuse can be physical, sexual, or emotional.

Child Neglect

Child Neglect is the failure of a parent or caretaker to meet minimal parenting standards for providing adequate supervision, food, clothing, medical care, shelter or other basic needs.

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

If you suspect abuse or neglect you have a social responsibility to report it to the hotline. In addition, state law requires that most professionals in education, health care, law enforcement and social work report suspected neglect or abuse. These individuals are Mandated Reporters.

For more information about reporting child abuse and neglect, visit DCFS.illinois.gov

 

 

One powerful mission starts with one person.

We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility.

It’s easy to say it’s not my child,

not my community, not my world, not my problem.

Then there are those who see the need and respond.

I consider those people my heroes 

- Fred Rogers

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