Family and Children's Services Division

Family and Children's Services provides services to children who have been abused, neglected, or who are at risk of abuse or neglect. Child welfare services focus on child safety, child and family well-being, and permanent homes for children.

Our first priority is always to keep children safely in their own homes with their parents. If that is not possible, children are placed in foster or relative caregiver homes until their own families can care for them again or they are placed for adoption. We work collaboratively with many local agencies and community partners to support and strengthen families and keep children safe in Santa Cruz County.

Report Child Abuse and Neglect

To report child abuse or neglect, please call:

  • Toll Free at 1 (877) 505-3299 or (831) 454-2273
    • Available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.
  • If this is an emergency dial 911 for immediate assistance.