About us
Help For Children is committed to the prevention and treatment of child abuse.
In partnership with the alternative investment industry, HFC identifies and funds organizations that use evidence-based methodologies for the prevention & treatment of child maltreatment. At the same time, we remain committed to learning, evolving, and investing in strategies that propel us toward a world where children feel safe, supported, and heard.
Know the Cause
Understanding the global impact
of child maltreatment
the Hidden crisis
1 in 4
Children Experience Abuse
The abuse and neglect of children is a global problem with serious lifelong consequences. It cuts across all socio-economic, racial, and religious lines. Child abuse causes suffering to children and families; it can result in stress that is associated with disruptions in early brain development. Extreme stress can impair the development of the nervous and immune systems and have serious long-term effects and increased risk for behavioral, physical and mental health problems in adulthood (NIH).
A Global Emergency
400 million
Children under 5 regularly endure psychological aggression or physical punishment at home
That is 6 out of 10 children in that age group that will experience violence at home (UNICEF, 2024).
A Global Emergency
650 million
girls & women alive today have been subjected to sexual violence as children
This includes more than 370 million who have experienced rape or sexual assault in childhood (UNICEF, June 2025)
vulnerability by age
44%
of child fatalities from abuse involve infants under age one
Furthermore, children in their first year of life have the highest rate of victimization (over 21 per 1,000 children) (USA Facts).
Abuse vs. neglect
76%
Of victims experience neglect
This makes it the most common form of maltreatment (NIH).
Long-term cost of inaction
$585 Billion
Early Intervention Can Reduce the cost of Abuse
The total lifetime economic burden associated with just one year of confirmed child maltreatment cases in the U.S. is estimated at $585 billion (CDC).
Breaking The Cycle
The good news is that the cycle can be broken. HFC focuses on two critical areas:
Prevention
Treatment
The Solution: Strengthening Protective Factors
Protective Factors are the “buffers” that help children and families thrive even under stress. HFC focuses on building these five research-based pillars within communities.
Parental Resilience
Supporting the ability of parents to manage stress and function well when faced with challenges or trauma. (CSSP)
Social Connections
Ensuring parents have a network of family, friends, and neighbors who provide emotional and instrumental support. (CDC, 2024)
Concrete Support in Times of Need
Helping families access essential services—such as food, housing, or healthcare—to minimize the stress of a crisis. (CSSP)
Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development
Empowering parents with an understanding of developmental milestones so they have realistic expectations and effective discipline tools. (CDC, 2024)
Social & Emotional Competence of Children
Helping children develop the ability to communicate clearly, regulate their emotions, and establish healthy relationships. (CSSP)