What Can I Do To Help?

What can I do to help? Is this a question that you find yourself asking? In short the answer is "HELP"! So many times we see abuse and neglect, the signs are right there in our faces but we choose not to get involved its not our business.  But the truth is, it IS our business. Child abuse and neglect is a community problem. These monsters are barley serving any time if they see the inside of a jail cell at all! State officials would rather not deal with it. Animal abusers get more time in jail. What does that say about our world?

When you call in a report, don't just sit on it. If that child is put back in an abusive home, if you feel like the worker has dropped the ball like so many of them do, then you keep calling. Get the name of the worker, call the supervisor. DON'T STOP! Not until that child is safe. Every state has a list of professional it mandates to report suspected abuse and/or neglect, but in my opinion it should be EVERYONE's responsibility to report this. The bottom line is if we continue to allow these people to get away with what they are doing to these babies, if Congress refuses to do anything, then we are as guilty if not more then then the people who are doing this.

Children can't speak for themselves, we have to be the voice. We have to stand up and fight for the innocence of the world. God's own. Child abuse and neglect are 100% preventable. Here are other ways you can help:

Get to know your neighbors. Problems seem less overwhelming when support is nearby.

Help a family under stress. Offer to babysit, help with chores and errands, or suggest resources in the community that can help.

Reach out to children in your community.  A smile or a a word of encouragement can mean a lot., whether it comes from a parent or a passing stranger.

Be an active community member. Lend a hand at local schools, community or faith-based organizations, children  hospitals, social service agencies or other places where families and children are supported.

Keep your neighborhood safe. Start a Neighborhood Watch or plan a local "National Night Out" community event. You will get to know your neighbors while helping to keep your neighborhood and children safe.

Learn how to recognize and report signs of child abuse and neglect. Reporting your concerns may protect a child and get help for a family who needs it.