Get Help and Information When You Need It
Find trusted resources, guides, and support services to help keep your child safe and your family strong. Whether you need immediate help, parenting tips, or want to connect with local services, these resources are here for you.
What you’ll find:
- Reporting information – How and when to report suspected abuse
- Crisis hotlines – 24/7 support when you need it most
- Parenting education – Evidence-based tips and strategies
- Local services – Connect with help in your Delaware community
- Safety guides – Age-appropriate conversation starters and warning signs
- Specialized support – Resources for infant crying, home visiting, healthy eating, and more
All resources are free and available 24/7. Many offer both English and Spanish language support.
Need immediate help?
Delaware Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-292-9582 (24/7)
General Help & Services: Call 211 or visit Delaware211.org
Reporting Child Abuse
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you must report it right away. Call the Division of Family Services (DFS) 24-hour Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line at 1-800-292-9582. You can also contact local law enforcement or call 911, but this should be in addition to contacting DFS—not instead of it.
You do not need proof to make a report. As long as you report in good faith and with reasonable concern, you are protected from prosecution.
For more details on how to recognize and report child abuse, visit iseethesigns.delaware.gov.
Hotlines
Operates 24/7 providing crisis intervention, information, literature, and referrals.
Visit Childhelp USA
Findhelp.org is a nationwide resource that makes it easy to connect with local services. From financial assistance and food programs to housing and healthcare, the platform helps you quickly search and discover organizations in your area that can meet your needs.
Connects runaway and at-risk youth with local resources and crisis support.
National Runaway Safeline
Provides immediate support for mental health or substance use crises, 24/7.
Priority Response Info
Offers confidential support for survivors of sexual assault. Chat online 5:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
ContactLifeline
Domestic Violence Hotlines
Child Inc.’s Domestic Violence Hotline: 302-762-6110 – Provides crisis support, safety planning, and resources for survivors of domestic violence.
The SAFE Program at People’s Place II: 302-422-8058 – Offers counseling, advocacy, and emergency assistance for domestic violence survivors.
Abriendo Puertas Bilingual Hotline: 302-745-9874 – Bilingual support and resources for Spanish-speaking individuals experiencing domestic violence.
Parent/Caregiver Resources
211 is a free, confidential service that connects people with essential community resources and support. By dialing 211 or visiting Delaware 211, you can find help with housing, food, healthcare, child care, and much more. Their trained specialists are available to guide you to the right services when you need them most.
Findhelp.org is a nationwide resource that makes it easy to connect with local services. From financial assistance and food programs to housing and healthcare, the platform helps you quickly search and discover organizations in your area that can meet your needs.
Delaware Thrives offers tools, information, and resources to help families make healthy choices and support children’s development. By visiting Dethrives.com, families can access guidance on everything from prenatal health to early childhood support.
ChooseMyPlate.gov provides simple, practical tips to help families make healthier food choices every day. The site offers resources, meal planning ideas, and guidance on balanced nutrition for every age group.
Delaware’s home visiting programs bring trained professionals directly to families, offering support and guidance during pregnancy and the early years of a child’s life. To learn more about available programs, call 211 or visit Help at Home – Delaware Thrives.
Crying is a normal part of infant development, but it can be overwhelming for parents. Reliable resources like KidsHealth, HelpGuide, and WebMD provide tips on soothing babies, understanding colic, and staying calm when crying persists.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers videos, articles, and tools designed to support parents at every stage of raising children. Explore resources on discipline, healthy development, and creating a safe, nurturing home at CDC Parents.
The National Children’s Advocacy Center is a leader in training, prevention, and support services for children affected by abuse. Their programs focus on protecting children, educating professionals, and promoting healing. Learn more at nationalcac.org.
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Delaware provides compassionate, child-focused services to support children and families impacted by abuse. With offices in each of the state’s three counties, they ensure statewide access to care and protection. Visit cacofde.org for more information.