How You Can Help

THIS PAGE IS DESIGNED TO BE PRACTICAL AND SPECIFIC RATHER THAN ALARMIST.

WHAT REPORTING DOES

When harm to a child is reported and investigated, it creates records, protection, and accountability. Local authorities are required to assess risk and act. Public reporting can lead to removal of a child from danger, prosecution of abuse, and prevention of future harm.

IF YOU SUSPECT A CHILD IS AT RISK

  • In the United States, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). They provide multilingual support and can connect you with local services.

  • If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.

  • Report suspected abuse to your state or local child protective services (CPS) agency. Each state has a hotline you can find through your local government website.

  • For concerns about online exploitation or trafficking, report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) CyberTipline at https://www.cybertipline.org.

HOW TO CONTACT ELECTED OFFICIALS ABOUT POLICY

Providing policymakers with constituent messages about child protection can influence funding and legislation:

  • Find your U.S. House Representative and U.S. Senators through https://www.congress.gov and use their contact forms or phone numbers.

  • Many states have child welfare oversight committees; contact information is typically listed on state legislative websites.

  • Sample message to a representative:

  • “I am a constituent. I want stronger enforcement of laws protecting children and full funding for child protective services and anti-trafficking units. Please support legislation that improves reporting systems, training for law enforcement, and services for survivors.”

WHAT YOU CAN SAY WHEN REPORTING

You do not need proof to report. You should provide:

  • What you saw or heard

  • Dates, locations, and names if known

  • Why you believe the situation is unsafe

WHEN PROFESSIONALS RESPOND

Child protective services, law enforcement, or trained response teams will determine next steps. Your role is to report what you observe. Their role is to investigate and act.