Family Support Resources

Supporting families whenever possible

This page connects families, mandated reporters and community members to non-investigative, prevention-focused services across Illinois. Whether you're seeking help, offering support or making a referral, the resources below are designed to empower families and reduce unnecessary involvement with the child welfare system.
 

General family and community services

Illinois DCFS Community Connection Services Program
The Illinois DCFS Community Connection Services Program connects referred families with children to community service providers and supports so they can get the help they need to strengthen their families and keep their children safely at home. Learn more about the program by reading the brochure in English, Spanish or Polish.

Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Family Community Resource Centers (FCRCs)
DHS has local Family Community Resource Centers (FCRCs) statewide that provide many types of programs and services to families in Illinois. To locate your local FCRC, call 800-843-6154 or use the DHS Office Locator.

211 Illinois
211 Illinois is a 24/7 resource that connects you to experts who can help you with your non-emergency needs, including help with housing, utilities, food, mental health, health care and more.

Fussy Baby Network
The Fussy Baby Network supports parents of infants who are especially fussy or hard to soothe. Specialists work with caregivers to strengthen bonding and reduce stress.  For help in English or in Spanish, call 1-888-431-2229 or email fussybaby@erikson.edu.

Service Provider IDentification and Exploration Resource (SPIDER)
SPIDER is a free, comprehensive service resource database that connects Illinois families to local, community-based services and programs. To learn more, read the SPIDER brochure in English, Spanish or Polish.
 

Behavioral and mental health resources

BEACON (Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation)
BEACON is a centralized resource for Illinois youth and families to learn about behavioral health resources near you and state-funded programs your child may be eligible for. 

Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Family Support Program
The HFS Family Support Program provides intensive mental health services for youth with serious emotional disturbances who require a high level of care outside the home. 

Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) and CARES Line
Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) provides on-site mental health intervention during a crisis. The CARES Line offers 24/7 crisis screening and referrals for children and youth. If you need SASS Services or experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact the CARES line at 1-800-345-9049.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call, text or chat with trained counselors at any time. The national 988 Lifeline offers 24/7 free and confidential support for people experiencing mental health or substance use crises.