Child welfare is a system in the United States designed to keep children safe and support families. If you are a refugee or newcomer, understanding how this system works can help you protect your children, understand your rights, and know how to access support if concerns arise including what may lead to a report, what happens during an investigation, and what to expect if a case goes to court.
The resources found here are designed to help you stay safe and support your family from preventing and recognizing abuse or neglect, to helping your children identify trusted adults they can turn to, to understanding foster care: how it works, what your rights are as a parent, and the support available for youth who are currently in foster care or aging out of it. All services listed here are available to refugees and newcomers regardless of immigration status.
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RESOURCES: Understanding Child Welfare in the U.S.
Understanding Child Welfare in the U.S.
Understanding Child Welfare in the U.S.
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This two-page guide introduces newcomer families to the U.S. child welfare system, explains its purpose, and describes the role of mandatory reporters.
Understanding the Child Welfare Court Process
Understanding the Child Welfare Court Process
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Languages: English – more languages coming soon!
Description: This resource is designed to help refugee and newcomer families understand what happens if their family becomes involved with the child welfare court system, also known as dependency court.
Rights of Newcomer Families When Working with Child Welfare
Rights of Newcomer Families When Working with Child Welfare
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page guide helps newcomer parents, caregivers, and children understand their right when interacting with the child welfare system in the U.S.
What to Expect with Child Protective Services Investigations
What to Expect with Child Protective Services Investigations
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Refugee Youth Resource Center, USCRI
Description: This one-page infographic walks newcomer families through the steps of Child Protectives Services investigations, who they may interact with, and what actions are likely to occur at each stage.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Resource Type: Website
Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway
Languages: Website available in English and Spanish
Description: This website is a comprehensive online hub with factsheets, videos, and resources on all aspects of child welfare including foster care, child abuse prevention, and family support. Resources are available in English and Spanish.
How the Child Welfare System Works
How the Child Welfare System Works
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway
Languages: English
Description: This 10-page factsheet explains how the child welfare system works, including what happens after a report is made, how child protective services responds, and the possible outcomes of a case. It also includes a visual flowchart of the process from report to resolution.
Understanding Child Welfare and the Courts
Understanding Child Welfare and the Courts
Resource Type: PDF
Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway
Languages: English
Description: This resource explains what happens when a child welfare case goes to court, introduces the professionals involved (judge, caseworker, attorney, interpreter), and helps parents and caregivers understand what to expect during court hearings.