05.14.20 Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline - Protect Children

Protecting Children in Santa Clara County During Shelter in Place

Hello. My name is Steven Dick and I am the Chair of the Santa Clara County Child Abuse Prevention Council.

In times of crisis and economic insecurity, rates of child abuse and neglect increase. However, reports to the Santa Clara County Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline have declined dramatically during the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. When children stay at home, they are isolated from places where adults often look out for their safety and well-being including schools, child care facilities, places of worship and other public areas.  We need all adults to step up: family members, neighbors, essential workers serving families in grocery stores and pharmacies, those delivering goods to homes and school professionals who work with children virtually. ALL ADULTS need to be aware of their responsibility to protect children. You are essential to child safety during this time. Connect, Support and Report. If you have concerns for the care, safety or supervision of Santa Clara County children and youth, please contact 1-833-SCC-KIDS. That is (1-833-722-5437). You can be the bridge. Thank you.

This message is brought to you by the Santa Clara County Child Abuse Prevention Council, Department of Family & Children’s Services, FIRST 5 Santa Clara County, and the Santa Clara County Office of Education. For Additional Support for Parents & Caregivers United Way Bay Area at 2-1-1 or the Bay Area T.A.L.K Line at (415) 441-5437 Providing 24-hour parental support for parents & caregivers.