Reitz Raises Awareness of Child Abuse Prevention Resources During COVID-19 Pandemic

RED BUD, Ill. – State Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, is raising awareness of Child Abuse Prevention Month and promoting resources available to help combat child abuse and neglect during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We should always be raising awareness of the horrible crime of child abuse and neglect, but especially during this uncertain time when many children are staying at home without schools in session and may face a volatile household,” said Reitz. “While Illinois is working hard to end the spread of the Coronavirus, we are still committed to cracking down on abuse and neglect, and statewide resources and help are still available.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and Reitz is taking this opportunity to call attention to the continuing issue of child abuse and neglect. If you suspect the harm of a child by abuse or neglect, you should call the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873 or 1-800-358-5117). If you believe a child is in immediate danger of harm, then 911 should be called. All calls are confidential.

“No child should ever have to experience neglect or abuse in our state,” Reitz said. “Our law enforcement professionals are doing an excellent job, but they need members of the community to step up as well. If you are concerned about a child or suspect there may be neglect or abuse in their household, I would encourage you to call the hotline and help our mission of ending child abuse in Illinois.”