Child Protective Services (CPS) investigates reports of child abuse and maltreatment within 24 hours of receipt of a report. CPS works with families to provide services and, if necessary, seeks court intervention to protect a child and place them in foster care.
At DSS, Child Protective Services investigates all reports of child abuse and neglect in the County. Together with the Preventive Services team, we provide support to families with the goal of keeping families together and preventing unnecessary removals. These supports include:
- in-home visits and referrals to services like daycare
- supports for children with developmental disabilities
- treatment for substance use disorder and mental illness
If the goals set for the family are not met, the Child Protective Unit is responsible for initiating orders of protection or removal petitions to ensure the children’s safety.
Even in the case that a removal is deemed necessary, the Children and Family Services team continues to work toward family reunification wherever possible. By providing children, families, and communities with the knowledge, skills, supports, and resources they need, DSS's Children and Family Services strives to help every child grow up safe and healthy.