What We Do

PEI takes a public health approach to preventing child abuse, neglect, and child deaths. We support better outcomes for children and families by addressing challenges related to poverty, family instability, poor health, drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, and more. We support the healthy social, emotional, and mental development of children who live in safe and stable families and nurturing communities. We do this with public education as well as contracts with community organizations that provide services to children, youth, and families that encourage decisions and actions that improve their lives.

PEI helps communities develop and improve prevention programs to strengthen families so they can live better lives. This can mean families don't get involved with CPI or CPS and are able to stay together. It may also mean their kids stay in school, avoid risky behavior, and don’t get in trouble with the law. PEI makes free prevention services available to families all around the state. You can search for PEI programs available in your county on the DFPS website. 

PEI’s Office of Child Safety focuses on programs that work to reduce fatal and serious child abuse. This office does critical-case reviews, examines data and trends, and works with other agencies to provide a safety network across Texas. The Office of Child Safety develops recommendations and works together with non-profit, private sector, and government programs to help keep children safe.