Manley Highlights Child Abuse Prevention Month, Resources to Report Abuse

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – To highlight April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and to shed light on free resources available to report abuse, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is emphasizing the importance of protecting children, especially during the uncertain times caused by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Sadly, volatile home situations are the reality for many children across our state, and with children out of school, those living with an abuser are at an elevated risk of harm,” said Manley. “While it is critical that we stay at home as much as possible to help bend the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19, if you or someone you know is a victim of child abuse or domestic violence, there are many free resources still available to help.”

If you or someone you know is in need of help, Manley encourages you to use the following free resources that are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week:
• The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services’ Child Abuse Hotline at 800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873)
• The Center for Prevention of Abuse at 800-559-SAFE (800-559-7233)
• The Illinois Domestic Violence Help Line at 877-TO END DV (877-863-6338)
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233) or with online chat service at www.thehotline.org
• The National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 866-331-9474, by texting loveis to 25222, or with online chat service at www.loveisrespect.org
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673) or with online chat service at www.hotline.rainn.org

“While we have seen a statewide decrease in reports of child abuse over the last few weeks, it is likely due to the fact that children are not coming into contact with mandated reporters,” continued Manley. “So it is very important that if you suspect someone you know is a victim of abuse, please know you can call on their behalf. While we are not coming into contact with others as frequently as we usually would, now more than ever it is critical to say something if you see something.”