Protecting Children and Empowering Families

Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe, secure and loved. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) helps thousands of children find permanent, loving homes; and helps thousands more reunite with loved ones. Through a robust system that includes family support, early intervention, youth development, childcare and child welfare services, the department serves as a resource and advocates for children and families alike.

DCFS is committed to transparency and accurate reporting. This series of dashboards serves as a tool for understanding the department and how it delivers on its mission.

When a child and family is brought to the attention of the department and the circumstances require investigation, the department finds numerous ways to support children and families so they can remain intact. Year after year, less than 10% of children who are part of an investigation enter foster care. DCFS supports these families by connecting them with services such as parenting classes, counseling, housing advocacy and other services. When a child is determined to be unsafe in the home, the department brings the case to juvenile court and the child enters foster care.

Protecting and supporting Illinois children and families is a significant undertaking. Understanding each step in the journey is critical to helping families know what to expect and how to access resources.