Parenting isn’t meant to be an isolated endeavor.
It takes an entire community to ensure that children grow up safe, strong, and well cared for. Whether a person relies on relatives, neighbors, or caretakers for help; raising a child requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, which is why it is important for parents to stay connected to those around...
Phoenix, AZ (April 2, 2021)
Current and former foster youth can now receive extra support during the pandemic thanks to a new federal law.
The COVID-19 Response and Relief Supplement Appropriations Act increases support for young adults currently in foster care and former foster youth who have not yet turned 27 years old.
“We know the...
Phoenix, AZ (February 9, 2021)
An Arizona father who turned his life around so he could dedicate it to serving his family and his community has been recognized by a national child welfare foundation.
Casey Family Programs recently awarded Edward Casillas with its Birth Father of the Year Award. The award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates a...
Phoenix, AZ (October 28, 2020)
Homelessness continues to afflict former foster youth in Arizona.
...“I was living from friend’s house to friend’s house,” said former Arizona foster youth Precious Roman. “I just wanted to be on my own and be stable and not have to worry about getting kicked out and not having anywhere else to go.”
Yesterday, the United States District Court granted preliminary approval of a settlement agreement that would resolve a class action lawsuit filed against the Arizona Department of Child Safety in 2015 by Children’s Rights, Inc.
The agreement will benefit the state by avoiding costly, ongoing court oversight of its child welfare...
It’s the holiday season.
Imagine you are a foster child waking up in a strange bed, in a house full of people you don’t know.
You have no idea what’s going to happen next or when you will see your parents again.
You wonder, does this family celebrate my holiday. Will Santa be able to find me? Will I get...
Arizona will be the first state in the nation to integrate behavioral health and physical health service delivery in a dedicated health plan housed within its child welfare agency, the Department of Child Safety (DCS).
“Behavioral health services are critical to supporting children in foster care and addressing the trauma they have experienced.”...
The Arizona Department of Child Safety’s paramount goal is to keep families together in a safe and nurturing home.
In June, during Family Reunification Month, we recognize and celebrate the hard working parents, caseworkers and child welfare professionals commit to preserving families by making them stronger.
The video below contains testimonials from parents, social workers,...
Over four hundred children in foster care will receive a visit from the Easter Bunny this weekend thanks to Cost Plus World Market and the Department of Child Safety.
Cost Plus World Market recently donated 200 baskets and thousands of items for children in foster care. DCS staff and a community partner purchased an additional 200...
March 18, 2020
DCS Caregivers,
The events of the last week have been challenging for the entire community. With the closure of schools, recurring news stories regarding COVID-19 and uncertainty these are challenging times for all of us.
I am so grateful for you as a caregiver. Our ability to serve the 14,000 children, youth and young adults in care...
