According to Florida Statute, anyone can report child abuse. It is the community’s responsibility to report witnessed and suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of children and the elderly.

How to report child abuse:

Call The Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)

• Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD): 1-800-453-5145
• Fax a written report with your name and contact telephone to: 1-800-914-0004
• Report online

If you do suspect harm, please report your suspicions to help protect the child and get help for the family. Contact your local child protective services agency or police department. For more information about where and how to file a report, call the Childhelp USA® National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD®).

Notification of report

If you report child abuse by telephone, you will be told whether or not your information is accepted as a report prior to concluding the conversation.

If you report child abuse using a fax, you will only receive notification when additional information is needed to accept a report, or when the report does not fall within the jurisdiction of Children & Families. Clearly indicate your fax number on your report. You may request confirmation, but assume that your report is accepted if you provided your fax number. That applies even if you do not receive a response from the Hotline.

Finally, FamiliesFirst Network serves children and families in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. Driven by a clear mission, vision and values, the dedicated team is available to help abused and neglected children and their families regardless of time of day, week or year. Team members collaborate with local agencies and partners throughout the state and in local communities. Faith-based communities also are passionate supporters of children and families. Church leadership and members work throughout the year to help ensure the safety and well-being of children throughout Northwest Florida.