The nation's child welfare system gives States the responsibility and the authority to intervene in situations where a child is or appears to be in need of protection as a result of abuse or neglect.

Investigating Child Abuse and Neglect
When suspected child abuse or neglect is reported, the child welfare system is required to conduct an investigation to see whether the report is substantiated.

Systems of Care
Agencies outside of child welfare are critical in helping to improve outcomes for children and families. Learn about the systems of care concept and how to coordinate an array of services and supports in your community.

Child Placement and Permanency
When a child is removed from their home due to abuse or neglect, the child welfare system must place them in a safe environment. Permanency planning is an attempt to provide stability for children coming into substitute care by anchoring them in a family that can provide continuity to their care.

Grants and Funding
Learn about federal, local and other resources for child welfare funding.

	How Does the Child Welfare System Work?
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	The child welfare system is a group of services designed to promote the well-being of children by ensuring safety, achieving permanency, and strengthening families to successfully care for their children. Most families first become involved with the child welfare system due to a report of suspected child abuse or neglect (sometimes called "child maltreatment")…