Child Protective Services

24/7 Hotline to Report Suspected Child Abuse:

Your report is confidential and can be anonymous.

If you are a mandated reporter, please follow these steps:

For a list of professionals required to report abuse, please refer to Mandated Reporter Training.

Child Welfare Services (CWS) is dedicated to ensuring child safety and protecting families.

We do this by:

Investigate & Protect: We investigate all reports of child abuse or neglect. Depending on the findings, we may provide voluntary or court-ordered services, or in some cases, temporarily remove a child to ensure their safety.
Support Families: When safe, we work to keep children in their homes by offering services like counseling, parenting classes, substance use treatment, and in-home support to address risks and prevent future harm.
Plan for the Future: If children must be removed, we focus on reunifying families when possible. If not, we find a permanent, stable home through adoption, guardianship, or long-term foster care.

Learn more about our process here.

What is abuse?
Abuse occurs when someone intentionally harms or neglects a child, causing pain, injury, or emotional distress. Learn more here.
What is neglect?
Neglect happens when a child's basic needs, like food, shelter, or care, are not being met.
What is a "mandated reporter"?
A mandated reporter is anyone who is legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect, such as teachers, doctors, or social workers. Learn more here.
What happens after I file a report?
When a report of child abuse or neglect is made, Child Welfare Services (CWS) steps in to make sure children are safe and families get the support they need. Our goal is to keep children with their families whenever possible, help parents overcome challenges, and find a safe, loving home if a child cannot return home. Learn more about this process here.