Working with Partners
Child Welfare Boards
Many counties provide additional resources to help CPS meet the needs of children in state care. More than 200 counties have child welfare boards appointed by commissioners courts. These boards provide significant support to enhance care and services for children in foster care and their families and help with child abuse prevention efforts.
Law Enforcement
CPS and law enforcement jointly investigate where there are allegations that children are crime victims and are at immediate risk of death or serious harm. CPS and law enforcement also work together on cases when children are exposed to the selling or making of drugs. Law enforcement notifies CPS if they plan to raid a home so CPS can protect the children. CPS contacts law enforcement if it finds evidence of a possible crime. CPS and law enforcement also work together on cases involving human trafficking.
Children's Advocacy Centers
Children’s advocacy centers (CACs) provide a safe place where law enforcement, CPS, and other professionals can interview children who may be victims of sexual abuse or severe physical abuse, or who witnessed a violent crime. Many CACs also offer services such as counseling, medical exams, and classes for abuse victims and their families. CACs have also partnered with CPS to train caseworkers on child welfare topics.
Forensic Assessment Center Network (FACN)
CPS works with the Forensic Assessment Center Network to ensure that caseworkers have access to the most current information about abuse and neglect so they can make sure children and adults are safe. The network ensures that doctors and other experts are available to offer advice and expertise to caseworkers.
Community Partners Programs
Rainbow rooms help meet the critical needs of abused and neglected children. These resource rooms supply a variety of items such as car seats, clothing, shoes, underwear, baby formula, school supplies, and safety and hygiene items to children entering foster or relative care as well as children receiving CPS services at home.