A Message from the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Kansas, Inc.
We are in an unprecedented time due to COVID-19 and must all do what we can to remain safe and well through this pandemic. Our hearts and thoughts go out to everyone, especially to those essential workers continuing to work on the front lines.
During this time of social distancing, children are at more risk of child abuse and neglect now more than ever. Isolation and increased stressors in the home can increase the likelihood abuse will occur. Children in isolation also have less contact with others who might spot the abuse and report. They need your help! If you suspect that abuse may be happening to a child you know, please contact the Kansas Protection Report Center at 1-800-922-5330 and/or contact your local law enforcement agency.
It is critical to know that Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) across Kansas and their multidisciplinary team partners remain committed to investigating child abuse and neglect, providing forensic interviews, offering connection to medical and mental health services, and providing child and family advocacy. Each CAC and their teams may currently have different guidelines in place on how to access services, so please reach out to your local agency for assistance. Visit www.kscac.org to locate a CAC near you.
Additional resources that may be helpful during this time:
Kanas Department for Health & Environment (KDHE): https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/
National Child Traumatic Stress Network—Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with Coronavirus 2019: https://www.nctsn.org/resources/parent-caregiver-guide-to-helping-families-cope-with-the-coronavirus-disease-2019
Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL): Parent Help Line 1-800-CHILDREN
Kanas Department for Health & Environment (KDHE): https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/
National Child Traumatic Stress Network—Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with Coronavirus 2019: https://www.nctsn.org/resources/parent-caregiver-guide-to-helping-families-cope-with-the-coronavirus-disease-2019
Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL): Parent Help Line 1-800-CHILDREN