Preventing child abuse in the Bronx was the inspiration for a free service offered to families in the borough.

The Prospect Family Inn Crisis Nursery is a place where parents in need of help can bring their kids on short notice. The nursery, which is run by Homes for Homeless, has expanded in recent years to help low-income families. The nursery offers medical assessments, nutritional programs and a host of other free services. Kids are allowed to stay up to three straight days and will be bathed, fed and entertained.

Homes for the Homeless estimates the nursery serves about 1,000 families each year. For more information call the Prospect Family Inn Crisis Center at 718-617-6100.