DENVER -- The economy is having a ripple effect from businesses to families at home.

"We work a lot. We both work. We have two kids. We've got to get them to school, then we've got to go to work, and spend time as a family, so it can be challenging," said Meghan Dougherty, a mother of two.

To deal with a tighter budget, the Doughertys decided to scale back. They moved into a much smaller home. The family admits the added stress can be tough, but they're choosing to focus on the positive.

Unfortunately, not all families end up making that choice.

Kempe Foundation President Jesse Wolff said kids in poverty are more likely to suffer from abuse and neglect.

"The Colorado Children's Campaign released a report this summer that shows between 2000 and 2006, Colorado had the highest increase of child poverty in the country," said Wolff.

The Kempe Foundation focuses on prevention and treatment of child abuse. It's a problem that Wolff said isn't going away. In fact, the Kempe Foundation Call Line has seen an increase in the number of calls. From 2007 to 2008, the calls doubled between the months of September and December.

The increase has doctors at Children's Hospital looking at ways to help families deal with economic stress before it gets out of control.

"Don't forget to give yourself a break and ask for help when you need it. That's a real sign of strength," said Dr. Anotina Chiesa, Children's Hospital.

If you need help dealing with the added stress, the Kempe Foundation Call Line is 303-864-5250. Or you can go tokempe.org.