Connecticut Department of Children & Families

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Welcome to DCF

The Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) vision is that CT's children are safe and sound and that they live with loving and supportive families.

We partner with communities and families to raise resilient, thriving children.

DCF also protects children. We serve as the State's lead agency for kids' mental health. Working with local communities, we set up and put in place prevention plans.

Use this page to:

  • Learn how to report child abuse and neglect
  • Find or request CT-mandated reporter training 
  • Become a foster or adoptive parent
  • Access forms and training
  • Get details about our latest job openings
Locate one of our offices or contact us  

Training, resources, and services

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Report child abuse and neglect, talk to an expert on our Careline

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Mandated reporter training: Get or request it for school employees

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Work for CT DCF: find State job openings and employee resources

Programs and services

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About CT foster care and adoption

Learn how to become a foster or adoptive parent. Or, if you’re already one, browse forms, trainings, and post-adoption services.

You can also find the following resources here:

  • Events, including our information sessions calendar!
  • Adoption success stories, news, and press 
  • In-depth information about adoption
  • Resources, including childcare
  • Licensing, requirements, and training for interested families
  • The Heart Gallery - to see children and teens up for adoption
Learn more about foster care and adoption  

More programs and services

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Want to be a foster parent, or are you already one? Find training, subsidy payment information, events, and more!
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Want to become a parent or grow your family? Meet the CT children and teens seeking loving, warm, and safe homes.
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Find resources, programs, and supports in place to help youth thrive.

Workforce training and resources for providers

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Training and forms

We engage our workforce and community partners through a culture of support leading to healthy and strong families. Learn about:

  • Mandated Reporter Training
  • Medical Administration Certification

Foster, adopt, volunteer, mentor, or donate

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Get involved

The State Advisory Council (SAC) provides DCF with oversight and advisement.

Check out our current openings, agendas, minutes, notes, and handouts.

DCF reports, data, studies, and more

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DCF Data Connect

Find a full list of DCF data, publications, and statistics. Access child abuse/neglect reports and more.

Find the support you need

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988-Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress. Also find prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
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Office of Community Relations

Call 1-866-637-4737. The office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.