April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month!

Child Abuse & Neglect: Every child needs to be treasured, protected and nurtured.
Unfortunately, some parents can’t — or won’t — care for their children. When they neglect or abuse them, someone must step in to ensure the children’s safety. That’s the job of Department of Family and Children Services, along with the police and the courts.

Child Protective Services, (404-651-9361,) Staff investigates reports of child abuse or neglect and provides services to protect the child and strengthen the family.

To report child abuse: Please contact the local DFCS office in your county or, the local police department. If you feel that the child is in immediate danger, please call 911.

After hours for Child Protective Services (between 5 p.m. and 8:30 a.m.) call 1-855-GACHILD

For Cherokee, Cobb, and Douglas Counties, if you suspect abuse by a caregiver or family member that has responsibility for taking care of the child, contact the Department of Family and Children Services at 770-319-3700.

Reporting child abuse to Child Protective Services and the Department of Family and Children Services can be anonymous; therefore, there is no fear of repercussions for reporting.

The most important step you can take to protecting our children is to report suspected abuse.  To contact your local law enforcement, please call:

Other cities/counties: To report suspected child abuse in Georgia call 911.

If you need additional assistance or you are unsure of whom to contact, call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Resources:

National Child Abuse Prevention Site

SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center

Keep Georgia Safe