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
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.
For more information see Contacts/Links