Life in the time of COVID-19 dictates that we socially distance to lower risks for the health of our nation. Yet at such a time as this, the risk to our children’s well-being could not be greater.

Families already struggling with mental health disorders, substance misuse and so much more, are now also finding themselves hit with job loss, isolation, mounting anxiety and the overwhelming stress that accompanies school closures — all of which heighten the reality of having their children home every minute of every day for at least the next month.

The public health situation we’re all battling is challenging enough for those of us fortunate to have a strong support system. For families already teetering on the brink of catastrophe, however, physical seclusion coupled with the fear of uncertainty could culminate in their children being propelled into chaos.

Oh, the irony! Social distancing and physical isolation are escalating just as our nation commemorates Child Abuse Prevention Month during April — a time for us all to remember our collective responsibility to care for our community’s children by being alert to dangers and risk factors that may be hidden behind closed doors.

As result of schools and child care centers being closed, there are fewer eyes on children, which makes our responsibility for our kids more important now than ever before.

But the more significant threat to our children is what we at Children’s Home Society of Florida fight every day: neglect. Seventy-five percent of children in foster care have been removed from their families due to neglect that, oftentimes, stems from fixable family issues.

Loss of incomes, perceived loss of access to resources, and social stigmas still associated with a family seeking support can lead to the issues that cause thousands of children to enter foster care every year: inadequate food or housing, untreated mental health disorders, inadequate parental supervision. If we can intervene early on, providing the right services, children can remain safe. Those interventions are threatened right now.

What’s important to know is that help is available. If you are overwhelmed, feeling the pressures of life in the time of COVID-19, please reach out. Our team at Children’s Home Society of Florida continues to be on the front lines and can connect you with online counseling and parenting support, local resources for food and rent assistance, and so much more. Call 850-921-0772 or visit chsfl.org/locations/big-bend-tallahassee.

If you see parents who are struggling, let them know they’re not alone – hope and help is simply a phone call or click away.

And if you see a child who may be in danger, please do not hesitate to report your concerns. It’s not just your responsibility — it’s the right thing to do.

Now, more than ever, we must come together, not only for the health of our communities, but also for the safety and well-being of our most valuable asset — our children.