Community Resources
Local services and support available in Lake Charles, Louisiana
Crisis Support
DCFS Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline
Call to report suspected child abuse or neglect in Louisiana. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All calls are confidential.
1-855-452-5437Louisiana Problem Gambling Helpline
A confidential information and referral line that assists individuals in the state of Louisiana who are affected by gambling problems.
1-877-770-7867Louisiana Substance Abuse Helpline
This is a confidential information and referral line that assists individuals in the state of Louisiana who are affected by substance abuse problems.
1-877-664-2248National Human Trafficking Hotline
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, the National Human Trafficking Hotline is here to provide the support you need.
1-888-373-7888Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is 988 — a free, 24/7, confidential hotline available nationwide for call, text, and chat in English and Spanish. Deaf/HoH: Access 988 Videophone or use TTY by dialing 711 then 988. Text: Send a text to 988 (English) or AYUDA to 988 (Spanish) to reach a counselor.
988Veterans Crisis Line
The Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) is a confidential, free, and 24/7 resource for U.S. military veterans, active-duty service members, their families, and caregivers who are experiencing a crisis. It is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Dial 988 and press 1 (instead of pressing 2 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
Call: 988 Text: 838255Health & Wellness
Health & Human Services Information Line
Louisiana 211 is a statewide 24/7 information and referral service that connects residents to local and state health, human services, and community resources. Services include Confidential, whole‑person‑centered help for health, human services, and community needs. Language interpretation in up to 161 languages during phone calls. Specialized programs for opioid misuse, kinship care, and disaster recovery. Partnerships with the Louisiana Department of Health, Department of Child and Family Services, and other agencies for up‑to‑date resource information. If you’re in Lake Charles, text your zip code (e.g., 70601) to 898‑211 for the fastest local resource match.
211Poison Control Helpline
The Louisiana Poison Center is a free, 24/7 emergency service for both the public and all healthcare providers with cases of poison exposure, staffed by specially trained nurses, pharmacists and physicians. Accredited by the American Association of Poison Control Centers since 1994.
1-800-222-1222Child & Family Services
VIA LINK Louisiana Parent Line
If you’re a parent or caregiver needing support—but not reporting abuse—VIA LINK connects you to trained specialists for emotional support, de-escalation, and problem-solving.
Call: 1-833-522-4453 Text: 1-225-424-1533