CHAMPAIGN – April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Illinois, and State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is reminding Illinoisans what they can do to help prevent child abuse and neglect during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for friends and neighbors to notice the signs of child abuse,” Bennett said. “It’s important that we continue to stay alert and notify the authorities with any suspicions of risk to a child’s safety.”

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you can call the Department of Children and Family Services’ Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (22873).

Hotline staff is working at full capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic and remains available to take calls 24 hours a day. Child abuse specialists continue to respond to hotline calls and assess child safety with face-to-face contact within 24 hours.

“We all have a responsibility to protect our children,” Bennett said. “If you suspect a child may be being abused, I strongly encourage you to call the hotline and make a report.”

If you have questions or need additional information, contact Bennett’s Champaign office at 217-355-5252 or his Danville office at 217-442-5252.