Although they may not understand or be able to express what’s happened, infants can still be deeply affected by abuse and neglect. This early trauma can hinder a child’s physical, mental and emotional development, compromising their sense of safety and security. To help combat the negative impacts of early childhood abuse, it is important that babies and small children get the early intervention and support they need. Find local child protective services dedicated to survivors of abuse and neglect.
When a parent or caregiver fails to provide the basic needs for a child to grow up happy and healthy, it can cause serious long-term effects. For healthy development, children need food, clothing, safety, shelter and emotional support, especially during the early years of their lives.
Read more EmergencyA child can never, in any situation, consent to any form of sexual activity. When someone engages in sexual behavior with a child, it is a crime that can have lasting emotional and physical effects. If you are concerned that a child may be suffering from sexual abuse, reach out immediately for help, advice and support.
Read more EmergencyAlthough emotional abuse hurts just as much as physical abuse, it can be harder to identify. The marks are left on the inside, and small infants are too young to report the abuse themselves. Find programs and services dedicated to supporting children in Stark County who are struggling with emotional abuse.
Read more EmergencyHuman trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Northeast Ohio, and young people in Stark County are especially vulnerable. Through child labor, prostitution and domestic servitude, many of our community’s youth are being exploited against their will for monetary gain. Fortunately, there is a network of local resources providing life-saving information and escape routes for survivors of human trafficking.
Read more EmergencyAbuse and neglect can have emotional, mental and physical effects long into a child’s future. Signs like bruises, scrapes, cuts and broken bones are common with physical abuse, while emotional abuse typically results in a change of the child’s actions and behaviors. Learn more about ways to identify and report child abuse and neglect.
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