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The fallout from methamphetamine’s path of destruction is extensive and includes thousands of innocent victims – among them neglected and endangered children. These innocent victims are flooding the legal system with a need for protective guardians when it becomes obvious their parents are unwilling or unable to care for them. Children of parents addicted or cooking meth live in filthy, toxic, drug-infested environments, often sleeping and eating off the surfaces contaminated by meth’s residue. Not only are law enforcement and environmental agencies in the West stressed by meth, but the impact on families has put Family and Child Protection Services on a “red alert.”
What is child abuse and neglect?
Neglect is failure to provide basic food, clothing, shelter and protection.
Abuse is non-accidental physical, emotional or psychological harm.
What should I do if I suspect children are being abused or neglected?
Call the Child Abuse Intake Hotline at (800) 678-9399 if the child lives in Utah. Or go to http://www.dcfs.utah.gov/locations.htm to find the Child and Family Services office in your community.
If the child lives outside Utah, call the Intake Hotline at (800) 678-9399 to find information on how to contact the state where the child lives.
Can I make an anonymous referral?
You may remain anonymous during the intake process. However, if you provide your name and phone number, Child and Family Services can contact you if more information is necessary to open a case or complete an investigation. Your personal information is confidential.
Can I act as a shelter/foster home for children I know?
Federal laws require that all prospective adoptive families become licensed foster homes. For more information on being a foster parent, contact Utah Foster Care Foundation at (877) 505-5437, or visit their Web site at http://www.utahfostercare.org.
Where is Child and Family Services located?
The Division of Child and Family Services has offices statewide. To find your local office, go to http://www.dcfs.utah.gov/locations.htm or call (801) 538-4100.
Voices for Utah Children works to improve the lives of children and families by advocating for effective public policies and programs. The agency works on behalf of all children, but are particularly concerned about those who are most vulnerable and in need of the greatest support. www.utahchildren.org
Utah Children Justice Centers: Utah has 15 justice centers where child victims can be
interviewed in a safe child-friendly environment. The centers help coordinate investigation and prosecution of child sex abuse cases. They also provide referral services to victims’ families. http://attorneygeneral.utah.gov/childjuscntrloc.html
The Utah Federation for Youth - The Utah Federation for Youth promotes positive youth development and drug prevention through education, community involvement, and outdoor recreation. – www.ufyi.org (801) 468-0699
It's My Life - Helpig kids deal with rough emotions. http://pbskids.org/itsmylife/emotions/index.html
