Concern about Drop in Child Abuse, Neglect Calls

Since March 11, the Department of Social Services (DSS) has experienced an approximate 50 percent drop in Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Calls. Educators and child care providers make the largest number of Hotline reports and without that daily contact with a child, a child’s safety could be seriously impacted. The Department of Social Services, Children’s Division is also very concerned that social isolation and the unprecedented pressures parents and families are experiencing are elevating the risk for child abuse or neglect. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Social Services urges every Missourian to be especially attentive to the safety and wellbeing of children and strongly encourages anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to call our toll-free hotline at 1-800-392-3738. The Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline is answered 24-hours a day, every day, all year round. Callers can report anonymously. Information regarding the department’s response to the pandemic is available online https://dss.mo.gov/covid-19.

Addiction During the Pandemic

Rev. Shane Laswell at Morning Star UMC talks about the challenges people in 12-step programs face when they are unable to attend group meetings at https://www.moumethodist.org/newsdetail/recovery-in-isolation-13539101.

When There is No Home to Stay At

Rev. Brad Bryan explains some of the issues the homeless community faces during the pandemic at  https://www.moumethodist.org/newsdetail/when-you-cant-stay-at-home-13539061.