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If You Are Concerned About a Child

If you are concerned that a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect, please do not wait. You do not need proof - you only need reasonable concern. Reports made in good faith are protected by law.

  • If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
  • Maryland Child Protective Services Hotline: To report suspected abuse within Maryland, contact the Department of Social Services statewide hotline at 1-800-91Prevent (1-800-917-7383), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Outside of Maryland - Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Call or text 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-CHILD), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for mental health crisis support.

AI chatbots are not a substitute for trained crisis professionals. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please use the resources above. Reporting abuse can protect a child. Remember, you do not need to be certain that abuse is occurring - if you have concerns, reach out. Trained professionals will assess the situation and take appropriate steps.  If you are a survivor of childhood abuse and are struggling with its effects, support is available. Healing is possible, and you deserve to access it.