Child Reunification Considerations for Communities
8. Additional Resources
8.1. Safety and Security Resources for Missing Children and Unaccompanied Minors
Missing Children, Custody, and Reunification Resources
The following organizations and services can support the identification, custody verification, and reunification of missing children and unaccompanied minors while protecting children’s safety and legal rights.
Law Enforcement and Local Courts
Law enforcement agencies and courts may support missing-child investigations, identity verification, custody determinations, protective orders, and the lawful release or placement of children.
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)
24/7 Call Center: 800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
NCMEC resources and services include:
- National Emergency Child Locator Center
- Field resources and Team Adam
- Case management
- Missing-child poster creation and distribution
- Analytical support
- Specialized forensic services
- Unaccompanied Minors Registry for disaster-related incidents
- Reunification and crisis-intervention support
Child Welfare and Child Protective Services
Child welfare and child protective services agencies may assist with custody verification, protective placement, family assessment, legal coordination, and safe care for children who cannot be immediately reunited with an authorized caregiver.