What is Illinois DCFS?
Illinois DCFS is the largest child welfare agency to earn accreditation from the Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services. From helping more than 15,000 Illinois children find permanent, loving homes though adoption and reunifying over 21,000 children with their birth families over the last decade;
When was the Illinois Department of children and Family Services created?
On January 1, 1964, 99 years from the beginning of public child welfare in Illinois, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) was created by the legislature. In creating DCFS, the State assumed the fundamental responsibility for safeguarding Illinois children by providing comprehensive child welfare services.
How do I know if my child is in DCFS care?
If you want to know if your child is under the care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, call: If you know the child’s name and birthdate or age and can verify your relationship, the DCFS Advocacy Office for Children and Families can determine if your child is in the care of our Department.
How do I contact DCFS Deaf Services in Chicago?
For deaf and speech-impaired communication over the telephone, dial Illinois Relay at 711. For specific deaf and hard-of-hearing-related services, contact Rebecca Patton, DCFS deaf services coordinator, at 312-957-4817. 800 West Roosevelt Rd,.
How do I report a DCFS case?
DCFS continues to operate its hotline and carry out investigations. As always, if you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you should report it to the DCFS hotline immediately. You can contact the DCFS hotline by phone at 800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873) or visit the DCFS website to make an online report.
When was the Illinois Department of children and Family Services established?
About DCFS The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services was established on January 1, 1964 as the nation’s first cabinet-level state child welfare agency.
What does it mean when a DCFS case is determined indicated?
If the investigator believes there is proof that you abused or neglected your child, DCFS will label the case „indicated.“ This should happen if there is credible evidence of abuse or neglect. DCFS has their own specific definitions of abuse and neglect. These definitions are in the Illinois Administrative Code .
What does DCFS do to protect the children?
DCFS has the primary responsibility of protecting children through the investigation of suspected abuse or neglect by parents and other caregivers in a position of trust or authority over the child. Call the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 800-25-ABUSE ( 800-252-2873 or TTY 1-800-358-5117) if you suspect…
Is DCFS using technology to monitor and investigate abuse and neglect?
DCFS, and its partners that make up the entire child welfare system, continue to monitor the safety of youth in care and conduct investigations when allegations of abuse and neglect are reported. When appropriate, staff are using technology to visit youth in care.
Who is responsible for Child Welfare in Illinois?
In creating DCFS, the State assumed the fundamental responsibility for safeguarding Illinois children by providing comprehensive child welfare services. DCFS stands as a separate agency whose director reports to the Governor.