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Our Mission

We are Suffolk County’s only not-for-profit organization that coordinates the efforts of child protection, law enforcement, prosecutors, advocates, medical and mental health experts under one roof.

We provide a prompt, sensitive, interagency response to child abuse so that every child and family can focus on healing.  Since 1995, we have served thousands of children, averaging 1500 referrals each year.

Multi-Disciplinary Team Investigations

The MDT at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County recognizes that a concern of child abuse can be a crisis for a child and the family, and works to minimize the stress for both through a supportive and comprehensive response. 

The MDT’s purpose is to reduce the number of times that a child has to speak about their abuse and to help families access safety and services. The Multi-Disciplinary Team Investigation includes an interview which provides a child the space and time to talk about what happened - in their

Our Board of Trustees

Members of the Board of Trustees provide invaluable support as leaders and ambassadors of the Children's Advocacy Center of Suffolk county's mission. 

Brochures & Publications

Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County / Healing Starts Here English | español | kreyòl ayisyen | 汉语 | português | Tiếng Việt About Your Child's Visit to the CAC English | español | kreyòl ayisyen |  汉语 | português Supporting Your Child After Sexual Abuse English | español | kreyòl ayisyen | 汉语 | português Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse Learn

Contact Us

Children's Advocacy Center of Suffolk County 989 Commonwealth Avenue  Boston, MA 02215-1308  phone: 617-779-2146e-mail: cac@state.ma.us

Learn the Signs

Children who have been abused may display a wide variety of emotional, behavioral, or physical signs and symptoms.  And, sometimes they may not display any symptoms at all.

What is most important is that if you notice changes in a child that you let them know you are concerned, want to help, and that they can come to you for anything and you will not be upset.  The signs below do not necessarily mean abuse is happening, but Download a PDF of Learn the Signs in English, en español, 汉语, kreyòl ayisyen, or en português.  Read about red flags of commercial sexual exploitation of children here or download the handout in English, en español, or en português

Know How to Respond

Responding to a child when you're worried about possible abuse can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re worried about saying the “right” thing, wondering how reporting will affect the child, or the child's disclosure is bringing up strong feelings for you.  When you’re not sure what to say or do, remember: This Download a PDF of Know how to Respond in English, en español, 汉语, kreyòl ayisyen, or en português.

Reporting Abuse

To Report Suspected or Known Child Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation Step 1: Immediately telephone the 24-hour DCF Child Protection Hotline at 1-800-792-5200 or local DCF office. You will find a directory of the DCF Area Offices at www.mass.gov/dcf. Area Offices are staffed between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays.  The DCF Hotline is always

Family Advocacy

The CAC staff supports children and families referred due to concerns of sexual and physical abuse, exploitation, sexting, inappropriate use of social media and the Internet, and children engaged in inappropriate sexual behaviors.  Services provided include: Providing crisis intervention, support and assistance with safety planning Helping caregivers better understand the CAC Family Advocates provide emotional support to children and their caregivers while at the CAC for a forensic interview and/or medical exam. Together with the Family Resource Specialist, they work with families to help identify and access needed services and resources. Support continues after the visit to the CAC, as Family Advocates also help connect families with CAC Mental Health Clinicians who provide trauma screenings and counseling services to children and families. Counseling services include: Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)Problematic Sexual Behavior-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT) Most children have access to the internet.  CAC staff provide caregivers with information to increase awareness of the apps and websites children are accessing and how children are sharing personal information and images on the internet. Staff also provides guidance to caregivers around fostering good communication with their child about

Forensic Interviewing

When child abuse is suspected, it is critical to talk to the child about their experience and gather information in an age- and developmentally-appropriate manner. The CAC’s goal is to help every child feel as comfortable as possible as the multidisciplinary team determines what may have happened.  To ensure this Minimizes the number of times a child is interviewed and limits the number of people who must directly interview a child; Is conducted in the child’s primary language, whenever possible.  (When unable to conduct a forensic interview in a child’s primary language, an interpreter will assist.); Helps coordinate services for A forensic interview is a fact-finding conversation conducted by a specially-trained Forensic Interviewer.  The interview is designed to provide the child an opportunity to talk about the reason for their visit to the CAC.  The Forensic Interviewer strives to make the child feel as comfortable as possible while gathering information Children and families may feel anxious before visiting the CAC for a forensic interview. Knowing what to expect can help. 

Financial Transparency

Just as our work to help children heal relies on the collaboration of public, private, and community partners, our funding model represents a strong public-private partnership. Our dedicated staff and diverse funding sources allow us to continue our commitment to effective, evidence-based support services while undertaking the strategic organizational growth

Our Media Campaign

Our Silence Speaks the Loudest campaign includes TV, radio, billboard, and transit advertising.  The campaign was created by an award winning team including Matt Ledoux of Ledoux Brands, Art Director, Eric Peterson, Eran Lobel of Element Productions and Marilois Snowman of Mediastruction. 

Take a look.  Listen. And spread the word.  Together, we can end the silence. Have you seen the billboards? Tweet and post to Facebook when and where.

Internet Safety

Tips for Keeping your Child Safe Children use a variety of online services, and each of these services can have different safety concerns. However, there are some basic tips which you can employ no matter how your children use the Internet.   Keep the computer in a high-traffic area of your Our partners at the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office developed Stop, Block, Talk to teach youth about internet safety and cyberbullying. To schedule a training, fill out this form. Download Our Coloring Book! English: español: 汉语:

Mental Health Program

Child abuse can cause children and their families to lose trust in the world and in themselves. Support from a mental health professional can help children and families:

  • Deal with strong and often confusing feelings
  • Heal from the trauma and move beyond the abuse
Services for Children & Families The CAC’s mental health staff is comprised of master’s level licensed clinical social workers with training and expertise in trauma and child abuse.  CAC mental health services are available in English and Spanish and include: Family Advocacy Crisis intervention, information, support and referral for mental

Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)

What is CFTSI? Children and teens impacted by trauma often experience symptoms such as fearfulness, anxiety, frustration in school, sleep problems, and challenges with relationships. Sometimes children keep these symptoms hidden, even from their trusted and supportive caregivers.  Developed by the Yale Child Study Center, CFTSI is a brief (5-

Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT)

What is PSB-CBT? While sexual exploration and play are a natural part of childhood sexual development, some children’s sexual behavior is more than harmless curiosity and requires specialized intervention. When sexual behaviors impacts the safety or well-being of the child and other children, it is important for families to obtain Consultation for Caregivers and Professionals The CAC Mental Health Program provides consultation and training for professionals who face challenges in understanding and responding to children’s sexual behavior or when there are concerns about a child's sexual behavior with another child. We can provide information and guidance to: Distinguish between sexual

Medical Services

After a disclosure or concern of abuse, it is often helpful for a child to see a health professional. The CAC offers on-site, forensically-sound medical services by a specially-trained pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner (Pedi-SANE). 

Medical services are provided in a child-friendly exam room using state-of-the-art equipment. The medical exam is not painful or invasive.

The CAC’s pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner (Pedi-SANE) provides medical care to: Ensure the health and well-being of the child Reassure the child that everything is okay with their body Diagnose and treat medical conditions that may or may not be related to child abuse Provide video documentation of possible

For Medical Providers

Many pediatricians and medical providers may not have specialized training and expertise in child sexual abuse. Referring a family to a Pedi-SANE ensures that the child’s care is coordinated, comprehensive, and specialized. With the caregiver’s permission, the Pedi-SANE collaborates with the child’s medical provider to deliver services.

If Abuse is Suspected or Disclosed During normal business hours (with guardian consent), primary care providers may contact the CAC's Pedi-SANE to see if it is possible to complete a child’s examination or forensic evidence collection at the CAC instead of in an emergency department. If a child is currently

Where to find Pedi-SANE & SANE Services

Pediatric SANE at the CAC of Suffolk County Adine Latimore, DNP, MS, PPCNP-BC, Pediatric and Adult SANE Adine.Latimore@state.ma.us  | (617) 779-2144989 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA  SANE Boston-Area Hospitals Beth Israel DeaconessBoston Children’s HospitalBoston Medical Center Brigham and Women’s Cambridge HospitalMassachusetts General HospitalNewton Wellesley Hospital Find more information and services outside Suffolk County here

SEEN / Child Trafficking

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is a serious and prevalent issue that impacts children & youth, families, and communities. CSEC is a form of child abuse.

Support to End Exploitation Now (SEEN) is a groundbreaking partnership that unites more than 35 public and private agencies in the belief that collaboration yields positive outcomes for child victims of commercial sexual exploitation (CSEC). Before the creation of SEEN in 2006, this form of human trafficking was virtually unrecognized in

About SEEN

Why a Multidisciplinary Response to CSEC?

Before SEEN, young victims of commercial sexual exploitation in Massachusetts were rarely identified, rendering them statistically invisible. If recognized at all, exploited youth were frequently viewed as delinquents and treated as criminals. Victimized youth were unable to access or benefit from the supports and services they needed to recover and be safe.

Established in 2004, the SEEN (Support to End Exploitation Now) program of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County (CAC) changed the way our community  responds to victims of child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation by creating one of the first child trafficking multidisciplinary teams in the country. The CAC

What is Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC)?

CSEC is a form of child abuse in which children are engaged in commercial sexual acts by exploiters or pimps. It is a serious crime that occurs at rates much higher than most people realize.

The commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) includes: Sexual activity involving a child in exchange for something of value or the promise of something of valueWhen a child (age 17 years of younger) is treated as a commercial and sexual object Sexual abuse and remuneration in money, goods, or services Indicators / Red Flags of Child Trafficking (English | español | português)

SEEN MDT Response

It is difficult for parents and providers to imagine that a child or youth they care about may be a victim of sexual exploitation. It can be extremely difficult for youth to come forward and ask for help, so knowing the red flags can help you identify possible exploitation.

Filing a Report Whenever exploitation is suspected, mandated reporters must file a report of suspected child abuse (51A) with the Department of Children & Families. The 51A report initiates a referral to SEEN and allows SEEN to communicate with the other agencies and organizations involved with a youth at risk

SEEN is Changing the System

The SEEN multidisciplinary response model now serves as a framework for how local, state, and national organizations develop their response to commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). Just 3 years after its inception, SEEN was recognized by the Ash Center at the Harvard Kennedy School among the top 50 government

SEEN Youth Advisory Group

The SEEN Youth Advisory Group is an inspiring team of teen survivor-leaders who share their voices and insights to advocate on behalf of exploited and high risk youth.

Participants include members of the My Life My Choice Leadership Corps who spend time working with SEEN staff to develop recommendations for SEEN Multidisciplinary Teams. SEEN incorporates their recommendations into daily work as well as into local trainings for professionals who may identify and/or respond to CSEC in Boston. Voices If you are a youth who needs help, contact: Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call (888) 373-7888  or text BeFree (233733) | Live Chat | Email Samaritans Samaritans Statewide Helpline: (877) 870-4673 | Call or Text 24/7 Bridge Over Troubled Waters 617-423-9575 (ages 14-24)

Make a Donation

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Your generosity today ensures that each child who walks through our doors receives the expert care they need and deserve.

Request Training

For more information about our Education & Training program or to request a training, contact us:

Training & Education

The CAC’s goal is to empower community members and professionals with information, knowledge, and tools to positively impact children and families who have experienced abuse. 

Our trainings focus on the following: Prevention: Increasing awareness and understanding of child abuse and fostering safety;Intervention: Providing information on recognizing the signs, responding to disclosure, reporting abuse, and the multidisciplinary team response; Treatment & Therapy: Increasing skills and knowledge for professionals who are helping victims recover and heal. Our

Training for Professionals

We customize trainings to the specific needs of individual agencies and organizations. For questions about training options and costs, please contact the CAC’s Training Program Manager, Erica Chepulis, at Erica.L.Chepulis@mass.gov. You can also request a training with this form: Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse (1.5-2 hours) Most children do not tell someone when they’re being abused or neglected. Adults have a responsibility to identify and respond appropriately to any suspicions of child maltreatment. In this training, participants will learn to identify the signs of child abuse and neglect

Specialized Trainings

I Filed a 51A Report, Now What?: The Multidisciplinary Response to Child Abuse (1-1.5 hours)  Learn how our multidisciplinary team responds to reports of child abuse and neglect in Suffolk County. Participants will learn about the role of the CAC, law enforcement, DCF, and the District Attorney’s Office in the

Training for Caregivers & Community Members

We customize trainings to your community's specific needs. Trainings may be held at the CAC or offsite, and many of our trainings for caregivers and community members are offered free of charge. For questions about scheduling a workshop for your community, please contact the CAC’s Training Program Manager, Erica Chepulis, at Parents Preventing Child Abuse Webinar Series Each installment of this series will provide parents and caregivers with bite-sized and easily digestible information about  in person and online grooming as well as concrete tips and warning signs. Learn more about this new webinar series here. Safety Over Silence (1.5-2 hours)  In this workshop, adults will

Get Involved

Make a gift Donations to the CAC support our evidence-based programs and services that protect children and help them heal. All of our services are provided free of charge to our clients. Learn more about how we put your donations to use or make a gift now! Fundraise for us It

Success!

Thank you for contacting the Suffolk County CAC.  We have received your submission and will get back to you as soon as possible.

Our Partners

Partnership and collaboration are essential to supporting children and families impacted by abuse and exploitation.  No single agency can do it alone. Boston Area Rape Crisis Center Boston Emergency Medical Services Boston Children’s Hospital Boston Medical Center Boston Police Department Boston Public Health Commission Boston Public Schools Chelsea Police Department Children’s Trust City of Boston Family Justice Center of Boston Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Consultation for Caregivers and Professionals

The CAC Mental Health Program provides consultation and training for professionals who face challenges in understanding and responding to children’s sexual behavior or when there are concerns about a child's sexual behavior with another child. We can provide information and guidance to: Distinguish between sexual behavior that is part of

Step Up & Speak Out Benefit

Mark your calendar and plan to join us at the Mandarin Oriental Boston on Thursday, October 29th for the 2026 Step Up & Speak Out Benefit! We look forward to a fun and inspiring evening celebrating the strength of survivors and the commitment of individuals who are advocating for children On Thursday, October 16 nearly 400 sponsors, partners, and friends gathered at the Mandarin Oriental and raised record-breaking funds for the CAC. Everyone came together as a team to advocate on behalf of children and families who are victims of violence, exploitation, and abuse. Overall, the event raised an incredible $770,000 On Thursday, October 17, 2024 nearly 400 gathered at the Mandarin Oriental to raise awareness and critical funds for the CAC. Sponsors, partners, and friends joined forces to advocate on behalf of children and families who are victims of violence, exploitation, and abuse. Guests, along with over 99 generous sponsors The 2023 Step Up & Speak Out Benefit was held at The Mandarin Oriental Boston on Thursday, October 12. It was a fun and inspiring evening with silent and live auctions, delicious food, cocktails, and more! During the three-hour event, the nearly 400 people in attendance donated $190,600! We were thrilled to WOW! We are blown away by the generosity of the nearly 400 people who gathered at The Mandarin Oriental on October 27.   The record-breaking crowd donated $142,325 in just 3 hours―$50,000 of which was matched thanks to Jim Quagliaroli―bringing the grand total for the event to an incredible $593,925! It was What an evening!  We were moved by all who gathered and brought their voices to our 5th Step Up & Speak Out Benefit at the Mandarin Oriental on October 17, 2019. The energy & commitment in the room were palpable! We were thrilled to honor Bob Rivers, Chairman & CEO of Eastern Bank On October 17, 2018, friends and partners of the CAC joined together to raise critical support and awareness for the over 1,700 children who come to the Center each year to find hope and healing after abuse. We were thrilled to honor First Lady of the Commonwealth Lauren Baker and Robert Reynolds In the event's third year, on October 4, 2017, over 300 guests raised more than $250,000 in support of the children and families we work with. 2017’s honorees were Senator Linda Dorcena Forry & Bill Forry, Jonathan & Margot Davis, and Jack & Carol Harrington. Select photos from the evening are available in the

Now You See

Now You See collection is a growing photographic exhibit featuring the eyes of children, adult survivors and families who have been affected by sexual and physical abuse and exploitation. Each image in the series is paired with the words of the survivor.

In 2012, “Sara” became the first child photographed for Now You See. Now, as a young adult, she  is a speaker at Bravery Celebrations and a role model for others. Since Sara’s first photograph, the eyes of more than one hundred survivors have been photographed at the Children’s Advocacy Center Now You See aims to bring public awareness to a crime that thrives on its victims’ silence and to empower survivors to talk about their experiences and take pride in their resilience and strength.  With the help of supporters in entertainment, government, sports, and business, the voices of these survivors have

SEEN MDT Partners

SEEN Team: The SEEN program team includes a Program Manager and Family Advocates. SEEN Family Advocates provide prompt and comprehensive case coordination.  They serve as the hub of the multiple agencies involved with and striving to support high risk and exploited youth.  SEEN Steering Committee: The SEEN Steering Committee was

Volunteer at the CAC

Thank you for your interest! Volunteers are an essential part of the CAC’s events and outreach.

When we receive your submission, we will reach out to you to discuss your interest and add you to our e-mail list to keep you informed of all things CAC.

Please note: Due to the confidential nature of our services, volunteer opportunities that offer direct interaction with clients are very limited.

Careers & Internships

Work with Us We are a group of compassionate, driven individuals who are dedicated to helping children and families heal from exposure to violence and abuse. As our agency grows, we are looking for committed and caring professionals to join our team. Please visit this page often to check out new employment THE CAC SEEKS A MASTER'S LEVEL, LICENSED CLINICAL SERVICES DIRECTOR TO DIRECT AND OVERSEE THE DAILY OPERATIONS OF THE CAC'S MENTAL HEALTH AND CLINICAL SERVICES PROGRAMMING. Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, the Clinical Services Director directs the strategy, compliance, growth, and daily operations of the CAC’s mental health and clinical services programming. This THE CAC SEEKS A CASE MANAGEMENT AND CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER TO SUPERVISE CLINICAL CASE MANAGERS AND A FAMILY RESOURCE SPECIALIST AND PROVIDE LEADERSHIP TO THE CLIENT SERVICES TEAM. Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, the Case Management and Client Services Manager ensures comprehensive case management, family resource coordination, and support to children THE CAC SEEKS A MASTER'S LEVEL MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN TO SUPPORT CHILDREN AND NON-OFFENDING CAREGIVERS IN CASES OF ALLEGED CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, PHYSICAL ABUSE AND EXPOSURE TO VIOLENCE. The Mental Health Clinician will receive training in and deliver evidence-based mental health interventions including Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention or THE CAC SEEKS A COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR TO SUPPORT AND FACILITATE THE CAC'S ENGAGEMENT IN THE COMMUNITY TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT AND INCREASE PREVENTION OF CHILD ABUSE. The Community Engagement Coordinator will conduct outreach to engage community-based organizations and youth-serving programs with the CAC, facilitate educational workshops, and increase equitable access to

Ginormous Climb 2018!

On April 7, hundreds of everyday heroes conquered New England’s tallest building in support of children exposed to abuse and violence, raising over $126,000 to support the CAC’s services. Thank you to all who made this year’s Ginormous Climb an inspirational and successful day! 

Child Sexual Trauma Response (CSTR) Partnership

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County (CAC) relies on strong partnerships with community-based agencies to ensure CAC-referred families have access to the specialized mental health resources they need. In addition to Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) services offered at the CAC, families are also provided information about

Mental Health Resources

The Child Trauma Training Center's statewide Centralized Referral System links families directly with specialized trauma services from a list of agencies trained in specific trauma treatment models. Contact the Centralized Referral System by calling: 1-855-LINK-KID (1-855-546-5543) To receive coordinated care or for convenience, caregivers might wish to seek referrals through their child’s

Talk About It

Download a PDF of Talk About It in English, en español, 汉语, kreyòl ayisyen, or en português. Teach your child that the following rules apply to everyone, and they can say "no" to anyone who wants to break a rule. Let them know that if someone breaks a rule: It's never your fault.It's never too late to tell.Tell a trusted adult. Keep telling until someone listens to you.It's okay Talking to kids about safety, feelings & healthy boundaries from a young age helps them recognize when something feels uncomfortable or scary & gives them ways to speak up if they are abused. Click the video to see our YouTube playlist with the latest virtual children's book readings with CAC staff. You can

Boston Herald: Coalition committed to ending child trafficking

Representatives of more than 30 agencies spanning disciplines including law enforcement, medical and mental health, education and more met at the Children’s Advocacy Center to sign a new memorandum of understanding outlining their responsibilities as members of Support to End Exploitation Now and underscoring their primary ethos: to treat exploited youngsters as victims, rather than criminals.

Ginormous Climb 2019!

On April 6, hundreds of everyday heroes will conquer New England’s tallest building in support of children exposed to abuse and violence! Register now for the 6th annual Ginormous Climb to be part of an inspirational day! 

Internet & Social Media Safety

Join us for a free workshop on internet and social media safety at the Curley K-8 School in Jamaica Plain! Jacqueline Lamont, Forensic Interviewer and Director of Youth Safety for Suffolk County District Attorney Rachel Rollins, will review the most popular apps, sites, and games used by young people today and present the strategies included in the Stop Block Talk program.

COVID-19 Support

Haga clic aquí para español. Click here for a guide to Boston-area services regardless of immigration status. For help accessing any services in Massachusetts, dial 2-1-1 or search the Mass211 online database. 7 Ways to Help Students Cope with Coronavirus (COVID-19) Anxiety (English and Español)Learn about signs of depression in teens and how you can help 

Have questions about coronavirus, how it spreads, and how to stay healthy? Read this Family Education Sheet or watch videos here from an infectious disease expert at Boston Children's Hospital. Read what to do if you are sick with coronavirus here: English |Español | 简体中文.

At-Home Activities & Learning

Read ahead for links to videos, games, activities, and lesson plans to support children's learning and wellbeing while at home during COVID-19.

Online Safety during COVID-19

During this time, youth are spending more time online, and caregivers may be understandably concerned about how to keep their children safe. 

In partnership with the CAC, former District Attorney Rachael Rollins issued the following letter to families in Suffolk County about online safety during COVID-19: English | Español | kreyòl ayisyen |  汉语  | português | Tiếng Việt | Kriolu The Stop Block Talk program, developed by the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office and co-facilitated by the CAC Guidance for Caregivers and Professionals Stop Block Talk: Empowering Kids and Families to be Safe and Kind Online10 Things We Wish All Parents Knew About Technology and Social Media - English | EspañolWhat do children do online?A Parent's Guide to Commonly Used Apps/SitesParents' Ultimate Guide to Parental ControlsTeen Slang, Emojis, & Hashtags Parents Need to

#CommunitySafetyNet

Haga clic aquí para español.

Will YOU be part of Suffolk County's #CommunitySafetyNet and help protect children from abuse?

STEP 1.  Download the #CommunitySafetyNet guide to learn how you can protect and support the children in your lives. STEP 2.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for tips, activities, and resources for preventing child abuse. Tag your posts with #CommunitySafetyNet to increase awareness.  Upload the banner above as your cover photo, or download our Facebook profile picture

Guidance for Mandated Reporters

The COVID-19 crisis brings many challenges for youth, including increased risk of abuse. 

While at home, youth are no longer visible in the community and many have lost access to trusted friends and adults. This isolation reduces opportunities for adults to recognize signs of abuse and exploitation and leaves children without opportunities to report abuse. The stress of quarantine and isolation can also While we are not seeing children and youth in person, professionals can continue to help children access safety and resources through virtual connections. Whether zooming, Face Timing or on the phone, we can find opportunities to check in and focus on safety. Try some universal conversation starters with youth (the elephant in the room!): “I’m checking in with all the kids I’m talking with about how they are dealing with the quarantine." Notice changes in the child’s usual demeanor beyond the expected stress of the pandemic. Physical signs: bruises, cuts, burn marks, unexplained injury Emotional signs: withdrawn, less communicative, fearful, anxious Behavioral signs: running away, increased opposition or aggression, atypical or new sexual knowledge For more information on signs of abuse, click Provide Resources Your organization's contact informationText Crisis Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST): Call 1-800-981-HELP (4357) for a mental health crisis DCF Child Protection Hotline: 1-800-792-5200 Be Ready to Safety Plan and Report, if needed Safety planning and reporting are necessary AND challenging if the abuse