When the Department of Child Services (DCS) reaches out, it can feel overwhelming. At KidsFirst, we understand the importance of providing a safe, loving, and permanent home for your child. We’re here to support you through every step of this process and help create the best possible outcome.
Understanding DCS Involvement
DCS may contact you if they believe your child’s safety or well-being is at risk. While this situation can be stressful, it’s important to know that you have options—one of which is choosing an adoption plan through KidsFirst. By working closely with us, you can ensure your child’s future includes stability, consistency, and the opportunity to thrive in a permanent home.
As a parent, YOU have a say
We strongly believe that every parent knows in their heart whether they are able or not able to parent. If you are a parent who knows they cannot parent their child and provide to them what each child should have- stability, emotional availability, good nutrition, proper education, and time to get to know your child and who they are, an adoption plan is an option. Many women and families don’t know that even when they are confronted by DCS, they do have a choice. They do have an option to choose a fully-approved adoptive family who will parent their child.
Steps to Take if You Are Contacted by DCS
If you are contacted by the Department of Child Services, here are the steps you can take right away. Remember, you have the right and the opportunity to choose the best future for your child.
1. Take the DCS Worker’s Card
The first step is to gather important contact information. Make sure to save the DCS worker’s business card or write down their name and phone number.
2. Contact KidsFirst at (317) 518-3032
Call us as soon as possible—ideally before any removal occurs, but if that’s not possible, contact us immediately afterward. Our team is ready to guide you through the next steps.
Call us at 317-518-3032.
3. Review Approved Adoptive Family Profiles
After you reach out, we’ll provide you with profiles of fully approved adoptive families. These families have completed a thorough home study process and are prepared to welcome your child into a nurturing environment.
4. Schedule a Meeting with Your Preferred Family
Once you’ve selected a family that feels like the right fit, we’ll arrange a meeting. This is a chance for you to get to know them better, ask questions, and ensure you feel comfortable with your choice.
5. Inform DCS of Your Adoption Plan
After you’ve chosen a family, KidsFirst will contact the DCS worker on your behalf. We’ll explain that you’ve made an adoption plan and that you’ve selected a stable, loving home for your child.
6. Provide All Necessary Documentation
We’ll handle sending all required documents about the adoptive family to DCS. From there, DCS will focus on evaluating the adoptive family’s stability, rather than placing emphasis on your biological family’s circumstances.
Why Permanency Matters
Children benefit most from growing up in stable, consistent homes. Early childhood trauma or instability can have lasting effects well into adulthood. By choosing a permanent and secure environment through adoption, you’re giving your child every opportunity to develop into a happy, independent adult.
As a parent, if you recognize that you cannot provide the stability your child needs, choosing a permanency plan through adoption is a loving and selfless decision. It allows you to ensure your child’s future is guided by parents who are ready and eager to meet their needs.
Contact KidsFirst Today
If DCS has contacted you, don’t navigate this alone. Reach out to KidsFirst at (317) 518-3032. Our team is here to support you, help you understand your options, and connect your child with the family they deserve.