A Life-Saving “Signal For Help”

A Life-Saving “Signal For Help”

The “Signal for Help” hand gesture was created in April 2020 by the Canadian Women’s Foundation as a discreet way for individuals experiencing domestic violence to communicate distress without alerting an abuser, particularly during pandemic lockdowns when isolation increased risk. Designed to be simple and silent, the signal involves raising one hand with the palm facing outward, tucking the thumb into the palm, and then folding the fingers down to trap the thumb. It can be used in person or over video to quietly indicate, “I need help,” allowing a trained observer to recognize the gesture and respond safely.

 

Today, predators can reach vulnerable children through phones, social media, gaming platforms, and the internet, often before families realize something is wrong. Finding Kids responds through three core programs: Recover. Care. Target. We help locate missing and exploited children, support families during and after recovery, and work with law enforcement to identify and disrupt those who exploit youth. Our work continues after a child is found because recovery is only the beginning. By combining investigations, aftercare, and prevention, we help children return safely to their homes, schools, and communities while building a future where every vulnerable child receives help before crisis becomes exploitation. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly towards keeping kids safe. We cannot do this work without your support.

*Names has been changed to protect the victim’s identity.