Child Abuse Prevention

We can all help prevent child abuse by recognizing the risk factors, protecting children who are at risk and by supporting families who are experiencing stressors.

Many nonprofit, public, education, social service and child-care organizations in your community play a role in providing support and services to children, youth and families. Parenting education, crisis/respite care, transitional housing and literacy programs, as well as family resource centers, teen parent support groups, fatherhood groups and marriage education classes, support families in important ways.

Learn more about child welfare and child-abuse prevention.

Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline

Anyone can and should report suspected child abuse or neglect. If you think a child is being mistreated, take immediate action. Reporting the situation may protect the child and get additional help for the family.

The Children’s Division Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Unit accepts confidential reports of suspected child abuse, neglect or exploitation. Reports are received through a toll-free telephone line, which is answered seven days a week, 24 hours a day. If you suspect child abuse or neglect in Missouri, please call (800) 392-3738. Persons calling from outside Missouri should dial (573) 751-3448.

Members of certain occupational groups, such as teachers, social workers and physicians, are mandated by law to make reports to the hotline. Any person may report, and anonymous reports are accepted from individuals who are not mandated by occupation to report. Effective August 28, 2004, Missouri law requires Mandated Reporters to identify themselves when making a report.