The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is returning control of child welfare services to the Bertie County Department of Social Services, effective today. NCDHHS temporarily assumed leadership in August 2025 after identifying serious concerns about child safety. Since then, the state and county have worked collaboratively to stabilize and improve child welfare services and ensure appropriate standards of care.
"It is our priority to ensure the safety and well-being of every child in North Carolina," said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "I am grateful for the partnership with Bertie County leadership as together we have worked to strengthen the county’s practice, delivery and administration of child welfare services."
"This has been a journey of growth, accountability, and transformation. I am incredibly grateful for the dedication and resilience of our child welfare team," said Bertie County DSS Director Yolanda White. "Their willingness to embrace change, strengthen practice, and remain focused on the needs of children and families is commendable. While we are proud of the progress we have made, we recognize that the work continues. Our responsibility is not only to improve, but to sustain that improvement. We will remain vigilant, accountable, and committed to continuously strengthening our practices. The safety and well-being of children must remain at the center of every decision we make."
Consistent with the Department’s work in counties across the state, NCDHHS will continue providing regular technical assistance and oversight to the Bertie County Department of Social Services. This includes periodic case evaluations, practice guidance and collaborative problem-solving with county leadership.
NCDHHS sent a letter to Bertie County with more details.