Every child needs someone who he or she can reach out to and who will respond in a way that keeps the child and the community safe. For the vast majority of children, that someone is their parents and family. For some children, a response outside the family is needed. The reasons for the problems are varied and complex. They include child abuse, neglect, and the need for assistance when parents are not able to care for their children.

This is the realm of child welfare. Child welfare is about keeping children safe, promoting permanent families for children, building healthy families, and fostering caring communities.

Child welfare services are based on some basic beliefs about children and families such as:

• Children do best with families.
• We need to help children stay with their own families when possible.
• The safety of children is first and foremost. Children who are not safe with their own families must be placed in a safe, nurturing environment.
• We are most helpful when we partner with children, families and communities.

There are many situations when children are not currently being abused or neglected, but we can see signs of trouble. As a friend or neighbor, each person can offer a kind word, help with an errand, extend an invitation or just listen. Sometimes, these small acts of kindness create support to children and families.

The Clark County Department of Family Services is the local public agency whose role is to help keep children safe, as required by the federal Adoption and Safe Families Act. The agency was formed on July 1, 2002 in response to the merger of state and county child welfare services. If you would like more information about the history of child welfare in Nevada and the plan to merge state and county services, please click on the links.

Services offered by the agency

Ombudsman for Family Services, Dispute Resolution for Children and Families 

Child Abuse Hotline accepts reports of abuse and neglect around the clock.

Child Protective Services investigates reports of child abuse and neglect; as needed, links families to community services; and provides guidance and supervision to families at risk of abuse and neglect.

Child Haven and emergency shelter homes provide a temporary safe, nurturing environment for children who cannot safely remain with their families.

Children's Advocacy Center provides a child-friendly setting to interview children about reports of child abuse (particularly sexual abuse), conducts medical exams and provides therapy.

Parenting Project offers programs that help parents have positive, healthy and nurturing relationships with their children.

Foster Care Services include the training of foster parents to meet the needs of children and the licensing of foster homes.

Adoption Services provide an alternative permanent home for children who cannot be reunited safely with their parents.