Based on 24 tables of data, this report provides a detailed account of the scope of the problem of child abuse and neglect in the State of Illinois in 1987, and the actions taken by the Department of Children and Family Services to protect the state's vulnerable children. In fiscal year 1987, the number of children reported as abused and neglected rose to 91,723, a number representing a 30.2 percent increase over the previous year. Measures taken to address the problem involve the child abuse hotline, the state's central register, and investigations of reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. The report also covers results of investigations regarding status of reports, fatalities, sexual abuse, perpetrators, and service delivery. Means of prevention are discussed. Members of the Statewide Citizens' Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect are listed. (RH)