Partnership to Eliminate Child Abuse
Abuse does not discriminate against race, religion or socioeconomic status. It is everyone's problem.
In 2011 alone there were nearly 17,000 cases of child abuse in Kentucky and nearly 18,000 in Indiana. The result is that Kentucky and Indiana each average 30 to 40 child deaths each year involving abuse and neglect. The children who survive physical abuse often are left with lifetime debilitating injuries. Equally as heartbreaking to know is that child abuse is completely preventable.
What can you do?
- Remember: It is normal for babies and even toddlers to cry. Most children cannot stop themselves from crying until they are at least 4 years old and depending on the reason for crying. If you feel yourself getting frustrated, place your child in a safe place and leave the room to calm down. See more tips.
- Watch for bruising on your child, specifically bruising on the torso, ears or neck of a child 4 and under. If a baby isn't cruising, there shouldn't be bruising – anywhere.
- By law, you are required to report suspected child abuse. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
To make a confidential, anonymous report:
In Kentucky, call the Kentucky Child Protection Hotline toll-free 24/7 at (877) KYSAFE1/(877) 597-2331.
To report nonemergency situations that do not require an immediate response, you can use a Web-based reporting system at https://prd.chfs.ky.gov/ReportAbuse. The Web option is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday, except for state holidays.
In Indiana, call the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline toll-free 24/7 at (800) 800-5556.
If you need support or someone to talk to, keep these numbers on hand:
| Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky | (800) CHILDREN/(800) 244-5373 www.pcaky.org |
| Prevent Child Abuse Indiana | (317) 775-6439 www.pcain.org |
| Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline | (800) 4-A-CHILD/(800) 422-4453 www.childhelp.org |
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