Child Abuse Hotlines

Reporting child abuse is a gut-wrenching experience for anyone, but child abuse hotlines save children's lives and help families. Even taking the step to learn about child abuse hotlines is a lifesaver, because you can act fast if you ever witness or suspect child abuse in the future.

1. Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Childhelp is a nonprofit organization that helps victims of child abuse and neglect. It staffs its child abuse hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week and serves the entire United States, its territories and Canada. Anyone can call, including children, parents and professionals required to report abuse. Call 1-800-4-A-CHILD to report child abuse or even seek referrals to social services.
2. Child Protective Services: If you want to call a local child abuse hotline, call your state's Department of Human Services or office of Child Protective Services. Most states authorize CPS to take reports of child abuse. If you fear retaliation, ask to keep your information private. 

Warning: If you suspect a child is in immediate danger, call 911 first. The police will respond to ensure the child is safe.

Tip: For a list of all state child abuse hotlines, visit childwelfare.gov, a site operated by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. On the right-hand side of the screen, find a light purple box with a menu labeled "Services & Tools." Select "Related Organizations" from that menu. A menu labeled "Related Organizations" opens in the middle box on the screen. Choose "Related Organizations Lists." A page will load listing several organizations. Choose "Child Abuse Reporting Numbers" for a list alphabetized by state.