Abuse & Neglect FAQS
What are Abuse & Neglect
Abuse is an act inflicted against a child which causes injury. It could be physical, sexual or emotional.Neglect is a failure to act on a child's behalf. It may not produce visible signs, and it usually occurs over time. Neglect can be physical or emotional.
Who should report abuse or neglect?
Anyone who suspects a child has been maltreated or is at risk of abuse or neglect is encouraged to make a report. This includes family, friends and neighbors. Professionals who work with children, such as teachers, police and medical practitioners, are required to report. Your report is confidential. Your name will not be revealed.
Nearly all children stay with their families.
We do everything we can to keep families together whenever possible. In more than 90 percent of all cases, children remain with their families. When parents cannot provide a safe home for their children, we first look for other relatives or friends for help.
We are strength based and family centered.
We look for the positive attributes that have made a family work. We build on these attributes so families can recover from a crisis and grow stronger. Strong families make it possible for children to live in a safe home where they can grow up healthy and happy.
How is Children Services funded?
Most of our programs are made possible thanks to generous community support from our local operating levy. Other funding comes from state and federal sources.