Supporting Illinois Children and Families
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) promotes the safety and well-being of children, youth, and families by responding to reports of potential abuse and neglect and, when needed, providing family-centered care and connection to resources.
Are you concerned about a child or family in need, or do you suspect child abuse or neglect?
Make a report online or by phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Governor JB Pritzker signed the Kinship in Demand (KIND) Act into law on February 5, 2025. This law empowers DCFS to establish more flexible certification standards for relative caregivers and ensures payments will be equal to those received by licensed foster parents.
DCFS Features
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FY26 Budget Proposal OverviewWednesday, February 19, 2025
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Office of the Inspector General Report to the Governor and General Assembly (Jan. 2025)Monday, January 06, 2025
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Illinois DCFS and the SAFE Model videoThursday, March 23, 2023
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Illinois Department of Children & Family Services Family First Prevention Services Act Title IV-E Prevention Plan (10/26/21)Tuesday, June 14, 2022
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Child Welfare Medicaid Managed Care Implementation Advisory WorkgroupFriday, June 10, 2022
Newsroom
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DCFS awards college scholarships to current and former youth in care
CHICAGO — Today, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Director Heidi Mueller, legislators, DCFS staff, caregivers and students gathered to celebrate this year’s scholarship recipients at the department’s annual scholarship luncheon.
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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' (DCFS) tent at the 2025 Illinois State Fair will be bustling with activity this year as representatives from the agency will be on hand to welcome families and share information about the department.
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Illinois DCFS Recruiters Attending Speaker Welch's Annual Job Fair
Attending Speaker Welch’s Annual Job Fair WHAT: Job recruiters from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will attend the annual Community Job Fair hosted by Illinois House Speaker and 7th district State Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch