Ensuring the safety of children in our community who are reported as abused or neglected, helps protect them from further harm. The Washoe County Department of Child & Protective Services is required by law to investigate reports of child abuse or neglect reported to the Department. Protection comes in a variety of forms, including voluntary services or legal intervention. Sometimes it is necessary to remove children from their homes to ensure their protection. When removal occurs, every reasonable effort is made to place children with an appropriate family member. If family members cannot provide a safe environment, alternative permanent placements are utilized.

As of 2001, Nevada counties with a population of over 100,000 became responsible for providing foster care and adoption services to their residents. These services were previously provided by the state through the Division of Child and Family Services.  The Children’s Services’ Adoption Program aims to move children in a speedy manner to a permanent adoptive home upon a judicial determination that reunification with the family of origin is not in the child’s best interest.