Reporting Child Abandonment

• 1). Consult your state laws for specific definitions of abandonment. A list of state contact numbers for child abandonment, neglect and abuse regulations and reporting is provided in the Reference section.
  
  
• 2). Document specific events, times and dates and other relevant information to support your claim of child abandonment. Signs of neglect may include: inappropriate attire for weather conditions; persistent hunger, stealing or hoarding food; no visible adult supervision; inadequate medical attention; and inadequate shelter.
  
  
• 3). Write a strong rationale for your claim that a child is being abandoned.
  
  
• 4). Include your detailed list of information about times and dates you believe the child was abandoned. Physical evidence or photographic evidence is not required but should be included with your report if available.
  
  
• 5). Contact your local child protective services department or agency to report suspected abandonment if you are required to do so under professional reporting regulations. Contact your local police to file the report if you are a private citizen.