News

Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline
The Virginia Department of Social Services operates a statewide Child Protective Services (CPS) Hotline 24/7 to support local departments of social services by receiving reports of child abuse and neglect and referring them to the appropriate local department of social services. The CPS Hotline is staffed by trained Protective Service Hotline Specialists.

How to Report Child Abuse or Neglect
Virginia: 804-786-8536
Out-of-State: 1-800-552-7096
Virginia Mandated Reporters
Local Departments of Social Services

Child Protective Services (CPS)
1)Alleged victim is under the age of 18 at the time of the report
2) Alleged abuser is in a caretaking role
3)Alleged abuse or neglect meets the definition of abuse or neglect as defined by the CPS laws, regulations and policy.

The Virginia Department of Social Services local agency has jurisdiction to respond to the report
Hotline Numbers
In Virginia:(804) 786-8536
Out-of-state: (800) 552-7096

Domestic Violence (DV)
Call 9-1-1
The Domestic Violence Program within the Virginia Department of Social Services identifies, mobilizes and monitors resources for victims of domestic violence. Over 20,000 women and their children are served annually.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Emergency Assistance (EA)- EA may be provided to needy families with children who are eligible for, or are receiving, TANF, when the family has an immediate need resulting from a natural disaster or fire, or to assist with eviction prevention.
1) apply online for benefits at commonhelp.virginia.gov/access;
(2) call 855-635-4370;
(3) apply in person at your Local Department of Social Services (LDSS); or
(4) mail a completed application to your LDSS.

Energy Assistance (EA)

Crisis Assistance — Applies to Heating Emergencies
Fuel Assistance — Offsets Heating Fuel Costs
Cooling Assistance — Applies to Cooling Utility Bills & Equipment
Call 800 552-3431 or Contact your local department of social services.