In-Home Services

Helping Families Stay Safe

Every child deserves a safe, loving home. If you are worried about your child or another child’s safety, or need help, contact your local department of social services today. Early outreach can prevent problems from becoming crises.

What In-Home Services Do

In-Home Services are designed to help families facing serious challenges so children can remain safely in their homes, avoiding foster care whenever possible.

These services give families and local social services staff a chance to work together to: 

• Identify family strengths and needs
• Create and follow a plan for safety and growth
• Provide skills, services and supports that keep children safe now and in the future 

When families are given the right tools and support, they can grow stronger and provide stable, nurturing homes for their children.

Our Principles

In-Home Services are guided by principles that keep hope and family at the center: 

• Keep children safe and reduce risks 
• Keep families together whenever it is safe 
• Support parents in caring for and protecting their children 
• Provide help without adding stress or harm 
• Respect each family’s culture and way of life 
• Include children, youth, parents and relatives in planning for a better future 

Parental Child Safety Placement Program

Sometimes parents need time and support to make their home safe. The Parental Child Safety Placement Program provides children short-term care with relatives or close family friends, while parents work towards reunification.

Voluntary Placement (up to 90 days)

Parents may choose a trusted caregiver for their child for up to 90 days, with local department approval, while they address immediate safety concerns. 

Benefits Include: 

• Caregiver is chosen by the parent, often a relative or close friend 
• Children stay in a familiar community 
• Families avoid the court process 
• Parents may reunite with their child in 90 days or less if the home is safe 
• Support and services are available for the parent, child and caregiver 

Take the First Step

If you are experiencing challenges that put your child’s safety at risk, you are not alone. Support is available, and help can start today. 

Contact your Local Department of Social Services to learn about In-Home Services and placement options that can keep your child safe while strengthening your family.