Holmes County Children Services   

Who We Are 
HCDJFS is the public agency  responsible for helping abused, neglected and dependent children in Holmes County.  We intervene on behalf of children who are at risk of abuse and/or neglect by working with families, service providers and community members to ensure safe, stable and permanent homes for children.   

On-Call 24/7 
When it is necessary, we make use of our 24 hour crisis intervention services, as mandated by law.  To utilize this service after hours please call the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office at (330) 674-1936 and a worker will be paged. 

What We Do 
The Intake Unit completes an assessment for suspected cases of neglect, dependency, physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children.  We work closely with other agencies, law enforcement and the courts to assess the risk to these children. 

The Ongoing Unit works closely with families and their children on a voluntary or court ordered case plan to help reduce risk of abuse and neglect to the child(ren). 

Foster Care is a temporary home with a substitute family.  While the child is with the substitute family we also work with the birth family so we may reunite the child with them at some future time. 

The Independent Living Program is a specialized program for 16-18 year olds in substitute care that prepares teens to live on their own after age 18. 
                                                                                    The Adoption Program provides permanent homes for children whose birth parents are unwilling or unable to care for them.  Adoption offers these children a second chance to become part of a family again.  Adoption is only available when the Juvenile Court grants permanent custody to Children Services. 

Community Education

Speakers are available for presentations to groups and organizations regarding child abuse awareness and prevention.  These programs are available for children and adults, and can be focused on the particular needs and interest of the group.