Ramirez Honors Child Abuse Prevention Month, Highlights Urgency of Protecting Children amid COVID-19

CHICAGO – To highlight April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, State Rep. Delia Ramirez, D-Chicago, as acting chair of the House Adoption and Child Welfare Committee, is amplifying child abuse and domestic violence hotlines during the ongoing COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) outbreak.

“While social distancing is essential to help contain the spread of COVID-19, it is a devastating truth that home doesn’t represent safety for everyone in our community,” said Ramirez. “Given this increased risk of harm, it’s critical that we take additional, great care to ensure the safety of our children. That is why I want to raise awareness of these child abuse and domestic violence hotlines. If residents feel safe to do so, they can also make a call on someone else’s behalf, and if need be, call 911.”

If you or someone you know is in need of help, the following free resources are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week and include confidential support, multilingual advocates, and victim-centered services:
• The Illinois Department of Childrena 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

“No matter what, everyone is deserving of a loving, compassionate and safe environment to call home,” Ramirez said. “Now more than ever, we must work together and look out for the most vulnerable members in our community.”

Residents can also stay informed on developments with the COVID-19 pandemic by reviewing information provided on the State of Illinois’ exclusive website coronavirus.illinois.gov. Residents who want to share their thoughts or require assistance on this matter or any other issue in the community can reach Ramirez at 773-799-8219 or by email at info@repdeliarmiarez.com.