Programs & Services > Child At-Risk Hotline
Child At-Risk Hotline
Rich
Young, Director
Working under the auspices of the Massachusetts Department of Social Services (DSS) since July 1982, Judge Baker Children's Center directs the Child At-Risk Hotline, a statewide after-hours emergency response system. Each year, Judge Baker's highly trained staff responds to more than 140,000 requests for crisis intervention, information, or referrals.
A 30-member staff is trained to assess the urgency of each call, elicit critical information, and provide a sympathetic ear. In situations where children are at imminent risk, an emergency response is initiated, with DSS field staff launching the investigations.
The Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with DSS Area offices fielding calls weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Judge Baker covering evenings and weekends. In January 1998, the Hotline expanded its reach, and now provides coverage for the entire state. The Hotline is part of the DSS automated FAMILYNET system, a comprehensive database that has improved access to and transmission of information.
To report a possible child at-risk situation, call 617-232-4882. If you live outside of Massachusetts, call 1-800-792-5200.