Each April, Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) marks Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month with efforts to help Missourians protect children. The nonprofit emphasizes that prevention involves strengthening families and providing support to stop abuse before it occurs.
The Missouri Department of Social Services reports the state’s Children’s Division receives over 154,000 hotline calls annually about suspected child abuse or neglect. However, many cases may go unreported because people are unsure when and how to report concerns.
LFCS created a child abuse and neglect prevention checklist to assist residents, including northeast Missouri communities, in recognizing warning signs and taking proper action. Key points include:
– Watch for signs like unexplained injuries, sudden behavior changes, fear of certain adults, or neglect indicators such as poor hygiene or hunger.
– Trust your instincts; you only need reasonable suspicion, not proof, to report.
– Keep the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline number (1-800-392-3738) handy for quick access.
– If a child shares troubling information, listen calmly and avoid leading questions.
– Document observations including injuries, statements, and behaviors to provide clear details during reporting.
– Understand that making a report begins the process; hotline staff will gather basic information to determine next steps.
Missourians who suspect child abuse or neglect can call the 24-hour, toll-free hotline any time, and reports can be made anonymously. Mandated reporters should ensure their certification is current by visiting the Missouri DSS training website.
LFCS encourages residents in towns like La Plata, Macon, Atlanta, Bevier, and Callao to share the prevention checklist with neighbors and coworkers, reinforcing community efforts to keep children safe.
For more information about reporting abuse or family services, people can visit lfcsmo.org or call LFCS toll-free at 1-866-326-5327. The service also accepts inquiries by email at help@lfcs.org.