Ohioans who suspect child abuse or neglect now only need to remember one phone number. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) has launched 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453) an automated telephone directory that will link callers directly to a child welfare or law enforcement office in their county. Reports can be anonymous.

“It is important that Ohioans be able to report suspected child abuse quickly, easily and anonymously. This one, easy-to-remember number makes that possible,” said ODJFS Director Michael Colbert. “We never want a child to be at risk because an adult did not know where to turn for help.”

After successfully introducing the telephone directory in Northwest Ohio in September, ODJFS has now unveiled the telephone number in all 88 counties.

Ohio’s 88 county public children services agencies are charged with investigating reports of child abuse. The 855-O-H-CHILD Automated Child Abuse and Neglect Directory will complement existing county phone numbers by providing one statewide number that automatically redirects callers to the appropriate county.

“If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please speak out,” said Director Colbert. “Call 855-O-H-CHILD, make a report, and stand up for a child in need.”