On Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Teresa Miller recognized and thanked DHS employees who staff Pennsylvania’s hotline for reporting suspected cases of child abuse and neglect for their exceptional contributions and continued sacrifices during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 74-person ChildLine team has been working remotely since March to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  
“When a ChildLine caseworker answers the phone, they know that the person on the other end is likely to report suspected child abuse or general concern about a child’s welfare. This is grueling and emotionally taxing work in the very best of times,” Secretary Miller said. “ChildLine workers also understand that when they answer a phone, it may be the first step in a process that saves a child’s life. Since March, those phones have been ringing in their own homes, around their own families. But they always pick up. On behalf of all Pennsylvanians, I want ChildLine’s caseworkers to know we recognize and appreciate the sacrifices they’ve made to protect children.” 
Throughout the pandemic, state agencies have followed guidance for businesses issued by the Governor and Secretary of Health, including the recommendation for employees to telework, if possible. Approximately one-third of commonwealth employees are either teleworking full-time or splitting their time between telework and working onsite based on their job duties, enabling critical services to continue for millions of Pennsylvanians. 

To read about honorees, click here.