Keeping Families Together

Every year, the Family Services Division of DCF works with thousands of Vermont families who are struggling and need help to keep their children safe. Most children remain in their homes while Family Services works with the parents on what the family needs to get back on track.

When children cannot safely stay at home, we petition the court to have them placed in temporary out-of home care. This can include placement with relatives, close family friends, or licensed foster parents.

Our goal is to return children to their homes as soon as it's safe to do so. Sometimes, however, children cannot safely go home and permanent families need to be found.

How You Can Help

There are several ways you can help children and families in your community—from a day to a lifetime. You can:

For More Information

• About providing respite or foster care, contact the DCF Family Service Division District Office nearest to you and ask to speak to the Resource Coordinator.

• About adopting a waiting child, call 1-800-746-7000 or (802) 241-2780 in Waterbury.