Child Welfare

What is Child Welfare?
What can I do if I think a child is being mistreated/abused?
How can I learn more about adopting a child or becoming a foster parent in North Carolina?

Question: What is Child Welfare?
Answer: Child Welfare works to ensure safe, permanent, nurturing families for every child. County Child Welfare staff investigate child abuse and neglect, help support and preserve families, keep children at risk safe in foster homes, and find homes for foster children who need to be adopted.

Question: What can I do if I think a child is being mistreated/abused?
Answer: If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you must contact your local county Department of Social Services immediately. This reporting is confidential. Every local county Department of Social Services in North Carolina provides protective services for children, in addition to foster care and adoption services.

Question: How can I learn more about adopting a child or becoming a foster parent in North Carolina?
Answer: Your local county Department of Social Services can provide you with answers to all of your questions regarding adoption and foster care services. In addition, you can call the North Carolina Adoption and Foster Care hotline or visit the adoption and foster care web site.

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