Child and family services
IMPORTANT TANF UPDATE:
Colorado has received a new federal directive from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) concerning Colorado’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, also known as Colorado Works, and the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG). We know this may cause concern, so here is what you need to know right now:
- ACF is initiating a review of TANF State Plan for “completeness and for program compliance with applicable laws.”
- Colorado Works supports programs about self-sufficiency, including basic cash assistance to households.
- SSBG funds are used to provide a broad range of services for vulnerable Coloradans, including child welfare services.
- While they conduct their investigation, ACF is pausing the flow of dollars to Colorado for TANF and SSBG funds.
- There is no change to your eligibility or the amount of benefits you receive today.
- You do not need to do anything right now. You do not need to take action, but you should be aware of the situation and try to budget January benefits carefully in case there is a future disruption to Basic Cash Assistance (BCA).
We will provide updates as soon as more information is available. Please stay tuned to our official channels for more details.
Children and families in Colorado can look different depending on who you are: the family of five, the teenager attending high school or a single adult. When we talk about children and families, we mean helping each member of your family — whatever that looks like and wherever they are in Colorado.
There are also many different services available to assist children and families in Colorado. Check out the services that are available to you below.
Suspect child abuse or neglect? Call the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-844-CO-4-KIDS.
Adoption
Adoption creates supportive, loving families for children, teens and adults. Working with our partners, CDHS assists with the adoption process in Colorado.
Child welfare
CDHS's Division of Child Welfare works to strengthen the ability of families to protect and care for their own children, minimize harm to children and youth, and ensure timely permanency planning.
Child support
The Colorado Child Support Services Program works with parents and caretakers to make sure all Colorado kids get the financial support they need to thrive.
Domestic violence
CDHS's Domestic Violence Program partners with communities to promote the safety and well-being of domestic violence survivors and prevent domestic violence across Colorado.
Sexual health
The Colorado Sexual Health Initiative provides youth with age-appropriate, medically accurate, evidence-based strategies to reduce unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Foster care
CDHS coordinates Colorado's foster care system, in which foster parents provide a safe, temporary home for children and youth whose parents or caregivers are unable to care for them.
Kinship
Kinship caregivers are relatives, friends or neighbors who care for a child or youth who cannot remain safely in their home due to reasons such as child abuse, substance abuse, or death of a parent.