Families are the foundation of every community. When a child is in crisis — whether due to neglect, abuse, trauma, or family hardship — swift, compassionate action is essential. That’s where York County Children and Youth Services (CYS) comes in. We work around the clock to protect vulnerable children and strengthen families across our county.
Our approach is centered on safety, healing, and reunification — helping children not just survive difficult situations, but thrive in loving, stable environments.
Understanding the Role of Children and Youth Services (CYS)
Responding to Reports of Abuse or Neglect
York County CYS is responsible for investigating all reports of suspected child abuse or neglect. Once a concern is reported through our child protection hotline, a caseworker is assigned to assess the situation immediately.
Key response services include:
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Emergency home visits
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Safety assessments of children and caregivers
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Temporary placement decisions if needed
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Coordination with law enforcement in severe cases
Our primary goal is always to keep children safe while working closely with families to resolve issues and restore unity when possible.
H5: Mandatory Reporters and Public Awareness
We partner with teachers, doctors, social workers, and other professionals trained as mandatory reporters. These individuals are critical in helping us detect early signs of risk.
In addition, we conduct public awareness campaigns throughout the year to encourage families and neighbors to speak up when they see something concerning.
Keeping Families Together, When Possible
H5: Family Preservation Programs
Removing a child from their home is a last resort. Whenever possible, our team works to stabilize situations within the family environment through support services like:
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Parenting education and skill-building
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Mental health and substance abuse referrals
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In-home safety services
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Conflict resolution and mediation
These early interventions can prevent further trauma and help families stay intact.
H5: In-Home Support for At-Risk Families
CYS offers structured in-home programs to support parents facing difficult life circumstances such as unemployment, housing instability, or domestic violence. Services include:
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Regular home visits by trained family support workers
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Development of action plans and goals
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Connection to local resources (housing, food, employment)
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Progress monitoring and follow-up
These services empower parents to regain control of their circumstances and rebuild healthy routines.
Foster Care and Placement Support
Temporary Care with Compassion
In cases where a child cannot safely remain at home, York County CYS places them with licensed foster families. We ensure placements are:
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As close to the child’s original home and school as possible
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Culturally and linguistically appropriate
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Short-term, with a clear reunification or permanency plan
Our foster care program emphasizes trauma-informed care, stability, and frequent family visitation whenever safe.
Supporting Foster Families
We also provide training, financial support, and 24/7 caseworker access to foster families. By investing in our foster parents, we ensure they are equipped to support children during these emotionally complex times.
Reunification, Adoption, and Permanency
Helping Families Heal and Reconnect
When the causes of risk are resolved, our top priority is to reunify children with their parents. This is done gradually and with full support:
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Supervised visits that increase in duration
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Family counseling and parenting sessions
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Final safety checks before full return
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Post-reunification check-ins and supports
Successful reunification is a powerful testament to the strength of families and the healing process.
Finding Forever Homes Through Adoption
When reunification isn’t possible, we help children find loving, permanent families through adoption. We support both relatives and new adoptive parents with:
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Legal assistance and paperwork
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Counseling for children and families
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Transition planning and integration support
Every child deserves a safe, stable, and forever home.
Success Story: Meet Maya
Maya was just 6 years old when teachers noticed signs of neglect. After a referral to York County CYS, she was placed in temporary foster care while her mother received addiction recovery support and parenting classes. After nine months of dedicated effort, Maya was safely reunited with her mother — now sober, employed, and emotionally available.
Maya’s story is just one of hundreds that show how crisis can lead to healing with the right support.
How to Get Help or Make a Report
If you suspect a child is in danger, don’t wait. You can contact York County CYS through our 24/7 Child Protection Hotline or visit our office for guidance.
To become a foster parent, volunteer, or learn more about our child welfare programs, visit the Children and Youth section on our website.
York County Human Services is deeply committed to protecting children and supporting families. Our Children and Youth Services team works tirelessly to respond to crises, rebuild trust, and create brighter futures — one child, one family, one success story at a time.
