Child & Youth Protection

The Catholic Diocese of Spokane is committed to providing a safe environment for all children, young adults, and vulnerable adults in our care by cultivating a culture of awareness and vigilance. The work of ensuring the safety of those entrusted to our care is a challenging undertaking. Each year our children and young people participate in the VIRTUS education program, Empowering God's Children, through which parents, teachers, catechists, and youth ministers give children and young people the tools they need to protect themselves from those who might harm them. 

Duty to Report

The Duty to Report Suspected Abuse of Minors and Vulnerable Adults (PDF)

Abuse Reporting Forms

All clergy, employees, and volunteers who suspect that a child, youth or vulnerable adult is a victim of abuse or neglect must report the suspected abuse to the appropriate law enforcement agency AND to Child Protective Services (children and youth) or Adult Protective Services (vulnerable adults). Complete the form below before calling the appropriate agency.

Form 401: English
Form 401: Spanish

Child Protective Services 
Spokane County: (509) 363-3333
(800) 557-9671/(800) 562-5624
Department of Social and Health Services: (866) 363-4276

Adult Protective Services (APS)
(800) 459-0421

Law Enforcement
Adams County: (509) 659-1122
Asotin County: (509) 243-4171
Columbia County: (509) 382-2518
Ferry County: 509-775-3132
Franklin County: (509) 545-3500
Lincoln County: (509) 725-3501
Garfield County: (509) 843-3493
Okanogan County (509) 422-7200
Pend Oreille County: (800) 669-3407
Spokane County: (509) 456-2233
Stevens County: (800) 572-0947
Walla Walla County: (509) 527-3265
Whitman County: (509) 397-6266 or (509) 397-4341