Information for Parents and Caregivers

The DC Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) protects District children from abuse and neglect. We look into reports of safety risk for children and young people.

Separation is difficult for children and families. Even though a separation is occurring, CFSA wants to work with you to help reduce safety risks, provide supportive services, and work towards reunification whenever possible.

Why are you taking my child?

CFSA separates children only for safety risk, which is defined as a substantial risk of abuse or neglect by a parent or caregiver.

Where will you take my child?

Before entering foster care, CFSA nurses screen children for physical and emotional health at CFSA headquarters. The first night, your child will be in short-term foster care (shelter care):

• Kinship Care: We will ask if any family members or close friends can care for your child. CFSA helps relatives complete licensing so children can stay with family or familiar caregivers whenever possible.
• Resource Parent Homes: If no family or close friends are available, CFSA will place your child in a safe, caring, and clean resource parent home.
• What to Pack: You will have the opportunity to pack clothes, toys, medications, and other comforting items for your child.

Your out-of-home clinical social worker will visit regularly and support you and your child throughout this process.

What should I do now?

• Connect with Your Team: Work closely with your assigned out-of-home clinical social worker, attorney, and Parent Engagement, Education, and Resource Support Specialist (PEER)—a staff member with personal experience in successfully reunifying their own family.
• Attend Your Initial Hearing: DC Family Court reviews CFSA's decision within 72 hours. It is critical to attend this hearing to show the judge you are committed to bringing your child home. You will also meet your court-appointed attorney here.
• Follow Your Family Roadmap: At your Family Team Meeting (FTM), you will help create a Family Roadmap and Case Plan outlining the steps to address safety concerns and reunite your family.

When can I see my child?

Very soon. CFSA schedules a Family Team Meeting (FTM)—usually before your Initial Hearing or within the first week—where you will establish a schedule for Family Time (visitations). Initial sessions are typically supervised by your clinical social worker to ensure safety, and CFSA can assist you with transportation to and from your visits.

What is a Family Team Meeting (FTM)?

An FTM is a collaborative meeting to discuss immediate needs, identify relative caregivers, and plan for your child’s safety and well-being. You, your family members, trusted support persons, social workers, supervisors, attorneys, and other helpers will attend. Together, you will build your Family Roadmap to guide your path to reunification.