HHSC Highlights Child Abuse Prevention, Support Services

HHSC Family Health Services (FHS) continues to empower Texans to help prevent child abuse. In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, FHS is highlighting the vital work of its programs to protect children.

"Children deserve to grow up safe, secure and supported," said Crystal Starkey, FHS deputy executive commissioner. "Family Health Services helps Texas kids thrive by assisting families in building healthy foundations. We also help get children to safety when they've been harmed."

Family Support Services

Family Support Services contracts with community-based programs to assist families in achieving self-sufficiency and stability, promote positive outcomes and strengthen support systems for children and families, prevent or reduce at-risk behaviors in children, and support workforce participation.

Child Advocacy Program

The Child Advocacy Program administers funding for the two biggest child advocacy organizations in the state: Texas Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas (CAC). CASA programs provide advocacy services for children under 18 in the protective custody of the Department of Family and Protective Services. CAC programs facilitate the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases and provide critical support and services to children and their families.

Family Violence Program

The Family Violence Program works through a network of trauma-informed service providers to provide emergency shelter and supportive services to survivors and their children. It also works to prevent child abuse by educating the public, providing training, and offering prevention support to organizations across Texas.

Thriving Texas Families

The Thriving Texas Families program supports children and their families by promoting healthy pregnancies and childbirth and offering resources for family and child development.

Early Childhood Intervention

The Early Childhood Intervention program supports families with children from birth up to 36 months who have a developmental delay or disability. Children with disabilities and delays are often at higher risk of abuse and neglect. To help reduce this risk, the program's coaching model supports the development of a positive parent-child relationship.