Baton Rouge, La. — On April 15, the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will launch a new customer service number designed to make it easier for Louisiana residents to reach the department for assistance.

Residents will be able to call: 877-7LADCFS (877-752-3237) for child support services, child welfare assistance, and other DCFS inquiries. Hours of operation for the line will be 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday.

The Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline remains unchanged and continues to operate 24/7 at: 855-4LA-KIDS (855-452-5437).

Suspected abuse or neglect should always be reported to the hotline.