Dear Parent,
I encourage you to sit with any discomfort.
Remember that there is difficulty in learning new things.
We can't do better, until we know better.
You're here. You made it. This is step one.
Your missteps do not make you less worthy of respect or humanity or undeserving of raising your own children. You have parented your children to the best of your abilities with the tools you've been given.
Let's work together to change your circumstances. You can do it.
Need help learning about your rights or what happens after removal?
FAQ
What is the process of CPS in Texas?
1. A report is made to the hotline
2. The report is assessed to determine further action
3. Case is closed or moved to investigations
Check out TexProtects for more details about how a case moves through stages.
What does CPS look for in a home visit?
When you have a home visit, the caseworker wants to make sure there are no safety hazards and your home is mostly clean for when your children visit or come back home. Here are some things to think about when working to create a healthy, safe living space for your family:
1. Any strong odors (cigarettes, trash, etc.)?
2. Are cleaning products/chemicals being stored out of reach for children?
3. Is there excessive trash outside of designated trash can?
4. Do you have food stocked and snacks readily available for children?
5. Do you have safety rails for beds/top bunks?
6. Are there any electrical hazards (exposed wires or electrical parts)?
7. Is there any spoiled food in the fridge?
8. Is the house clean of any rodent or pet feces?
9. Are dangerous objects (weapons, knives, razors, etc) stored out of reach of children?
10. Are there any illegal substances in the house?
11. Are safe sleeping arrangements practiced for infants (crib with no pillows, blankets, toys, etc)?
What do I do if no one will return my calls?
1. Always leave a voicemail.
2. Keep a log of all calls (date, time, number, if you could leave a message).
3. Give 24 business hours before calling again.
4. Call/leave voicemails three times before contacting a supervisor
5. For CPS, see the below chain of command. You can contact your local CPS office to get contact information.
-
CPS Worker
-
CPS Supervisor
-
Program Director
-
Program Admin
-
Regional Director
-
CPS Office of Consumer Relations #800-720-7777
"If there is no struggle, there is no progress."
Frederick Douglass, The Father of the Civil Rights Movement