What should I do if I believe a child is in danger?

If you believe a child is in danger in Washington State, the most important step is to report it. You can call 911, the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) at 1-866-END-HARM (1-866-363-4276), or your local law enforcement. The DSHS provides resources for those who may be experiencing or witnessing child abuse or neglect. Once you have reported the situation, you can contact your local child advocacy law center to seek legal advice or assistance. Child advocacy law centers specialize in protecting the rights of children and ensure they receive appropriate legal representation and other services. They have expertise in family law, juvenile court proceedings, and child abuse and neglect cases. You can also reach out to a local child welfare agency to provide emotional and practical support to the child. These agencies can help families stay together, provide housing and food assistance, and give access to medical and mental health services. In addition, you can contact your state Department of Children, Youth, and Families to get information about how to protect a child from abuse or neglect. They also provide resources and services to families in need. Finally, you can reach out to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. They are a nonprofit organization that provides national resources and assistance for missing and exploited children. They also provide a 24-hour hotline for reporting suspected child abuse or exploitation.

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What should I do if I believe a child is in danger?

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