Child Abuse or Neglect | The Wetter Family Fo

child abuse and neglect

In the United States, 1 in 7 children experiences abuse or neglect annually. Child welfare agencies and nonprofits play a critical role in preventing and mitigating the effects of child abuse and neglect through victim-centered services that strengthen families and promote healing, safety and accountability.

sc department of social services

The Department of Social Services is part of South Carolina's public safety system. DSS is responsible for protecting children from abuse and neglect by their parents, guardians, caretakers or other relatives. DSS works to keep children safe in their own homes with supportive services related to parenting, substance abuse, mental healthcare, family violence and poverty. If the child can’t be made safe at home, Law Enforcement or the courts remove the endangered child and DSS places the child in kinship or foster care until a long-term solution can be found.

Young children experience the world through their relationships with parents and other caregivers. The quality of these relationships and their environment, play a significant role in a child's development. Safety, stability and care are essential for helping children reach their full potential. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, contact the SCDSS online or via their 24-hour, toll-free abuse hotline.

24/7 Hotline: (1-888) 227-3487

Online Reporting: DSS Portals

Greenville County: 352 Halton Road

Greenville, SC 29607

sc department of children's advocacy

The South Carolina Department of Children's Advocacy (DCA) is an independent state agency established in 2018 to enhance the care and services provided to children by state agencies. Operational since July 1, 2019, the DCA advocates for systemic improvements and promotes a vision of statewide reform to ensure better outcomes for children.

Guided by its mission to champion advocacy, accountability, and service, the DCA oversees initiatives like the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program, which provides court-appointed advocates for abused and neglected children in family court proceedings across South Carolina's 45 counties.

The DCA also hosts the Foster Care Review Board which recommends permanency plans, identifies barriers to expedite placement, monitors safety and progress, and improves child welfare practices. Through their initiates, he DCA hopes to serve as a catalyst for meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable youth.

1205 Pendleton Street, 4th Floor

Columbia, SC 29201
Main Office: 803-734-3176
Website: Home | Department of Children's Advocacy

heartfelt calling

Heartfelt Calling, a program of the South Carolina Foster Parent Association, serves as the first point of contact for prospective foster and adoptive parents. In conjunction with the SCDSS and their licensing partners, Heartfelt Calling provides training and support for those willing to care for children in need, while also supporting birth parents facing poverty, substance abuse, or mental health issues. Heartfelt Calling's primary mission is to assist foster parents in creating nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma and instability. Their dedication and expertise helps to break cycles of adversity and builds the foundation for a brighter future for children in foster care.

Main Office: (1-888) 828-3555

Email: info@heartfeltcalling.org

Website: Heartfelt Calling – SC Foster Parents – South Carolina Foster Parent Information