How the Child Welfare System Works

This factsheet provides a brief overview of the purposes and functions of the child welfare system. Child welfare systems typically receive and investigate reports of possible child abuse and neglect; provide services to families that need assistance in the safety and care of their children; arrange for children to live with relatives or with foster families when they are not safe at home; and arrange for reunification, adoption, or other permanent family connections for children and youth leaving foster care. A flowchart illustrates how cases typically move through the child welfare system. 

This publication is also available in Spanish.

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.