Families in need of parenting aid to safeguard against their children entering the foster care system can find support through various channels. For residents of Los Angeles County, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) offers preventative assistance, while those outside the county can seek guidance from the California Parent and Youth Hotline. These resources aim to provide families with the necessary tools and support to navigate challenges and maintain stable and nurturing environments for their children. For further details and assistance, please refer to the information provided below.
Preventive and Support Services for Parents in LA County
Preventive and support services are designed to keep families together and prevent DCFS investigations in the first place. Throughout Los Angeles County, DCFS partners with CBOs to provide support services and assistance to parents and families who need help. Whether you have a referral or an open case with DCFS, or you’re simply an LA County resident looking for some help these programs can provide, including basic family needs, navigation including linkage to needed resources, child developmental screenings, education and special education information, family fun nights, fatherhood programs, financial literacy, navigating child support, neighborhood/community action groups, nurse visitation for expectant and new mothers, parenting education, peer support groups, safe sleep program, structured parent-child and/or family-centered activities, and more. Call (213) 739-6208 to speak to DCFS Preventive and Support Services staff.
California Department of Social Services Parent Resources
The OCAP is funding Parents Anonymous Inc. to offer the California Parent & Youth Helpline and Online Parent Support Groups to address increased stressors and concerns faced by families, parents and youth. Parents and youth can call, text, and chat 1-855-427-2736 for emotional support and referrals in English, Spanish, and other languages, every day from 8 AM to PM. Sign up for the Online Groups at caparentyouthhelpline.org. Other Parents Anonymous resources can be accessed on their website.