Recognize the Signs
Every year in Escambia County over 5000+ reports of suspected child abuse are received by the Department of Children and Families. Child abuse comes in many forms – physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect – and recognizing child abuse isn't easy.
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Some possible signs of child abuse are:
- Any change in a child's behavior
- an outgoing child becomes withdrawn or vice versa
- a child's grades start dropping
- a child is unable to sleep
- a child regresses to an earlier stage of development, such as bed-wetting
- a child becomes fearful
- a child displays self-harm or aggression to other children
- Frequent bruises or broken bones
- Frequent absences
- Social isolation
- Inadequate hygiene
The thing to remember is that it is NOT your job to KNOW whether abuse is occurring or not – it is your job to report ANY concerns. Under Florida law, anyone who suspects a child may be abused or neglected has a legal responsibility to report it. Make the call, get a professional set of eyes and ears on that child, and save a life.
For more tips on spotting child abuse, go to:
Reporting abuse
It's mandatory under Florida to report abuse if you see it happening or suspect that it's occurring. Abuse may be reported by calling the Abuse Hotline at:
Telephone: 1-800-962-2873
TDD (Telephone Device for the Deaf): 1-800-453-5145
* This toll free number is available 24/7; counselors are waiting to assist you.
Learn about fax and web reporting options by following this link to MyFLFamilies.com:
http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/abuse-hotline/howtoreport
News Articles
Dine Out and Do Good
Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) is celebrating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month by inviting local restaurants and eateries to raise funds and awareness all month long. Interested establishments will commit to serving one “blue” item for the month of April, with a portion of proceeds from that item going to support victims of child abuse in Escambia County.
Gulf Coast Kid's House Blue Wahoos Fundraiser
Gulf Coast Kid’s house is kicking off April as Child Abuse Prevention Month with the Blue Wahoos. On Sunday, April 10th, Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) will be on-hand with an information table. Celebrate all weekend long by purchasing a specialty drink called "Light up Lemonade" at the Section 110 snack cart and $2 from every purchase will go to support GCKH and child abuse prevention efforts in Escambia County.
Raise money for GCKH: Buy Tickets Here
Gulf Power Foundation Contributes $100,000 to Support Local Child Abuse Victims!
DeSantis Appoints Final Five Members To Escambia Childrens Trust Board Of Directors
Escambia County Sex Offender Gets 30 Years For New Child Sex Crimes
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