Child Protective Services investigates reports of child abuse, neglect and abandonment. We work with families to address safety issues.  Our goal is to support parents and caregivers to make necessary changes so children are safe and protected in their homes.  

To Report Child Abuse or Neglect, call: 

608-269-8854

For an immediate health or safety emergency, dial 911

There are three stages of the child protection system.

• Access: In this stage, we receive information about suspected child maltreatment from community members and mandated reporters. Using this information, we determine whether a report should move to the next stage.

• Initial Assessment: In this stage, we perform interviews with the child(ren), parent(s), Indian custodian(s), and other adults who are in contact with the child, such as doctors and educators, and visit the home. Using this information, we determine child safety, whether additional services may be needed, and if maltreatment occurred.

• Ongoing:  This stage is where services are provided based on the initial assessment and conversations with the family. Services may vary based on the needs, strengths and goals of the family. We will work with the family to establish goals that achieve measurable outcomes and build a safe, stable home for children.

 "An Introduction to Child Welfare: For Parents, By Parents" is a resource to support system-involved parents. 

"Understanding the Language of Child Welfare" is a resource for parents to understand the terms used in the child welfare system.

 "Information for Parents at the Start of a CPS Initial Assessment" is a resource for parents to understand the initial assessment process when Child Protective Services is involved.

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OUR MISSION: To support individuals and families to live safely and independently!

The mission of the Monroe County Department of Human Services is to serve people, with an emphasis on Monroe County residents, by empowering participant responsibility and choice toward safe and independent lifestyles through the delivery of services in response to assessed needs.           

We intend to achieve this mission through providing public awareness, resource and referral information, economic support, and direct provision of services in a fiscally responsible manner.