Colorado’s Child Welfare System

Colorado’s child welfare system works across state and county agencies to protect children from abuse and neglect, respond to concerns quickly, and support families with needed services. Reports flow through a statewide hotline and local departments, where trained staff assess safety risks and connect families with prevention, in-home support, or court-supervised services. When children cannot safely remain at home, courts may order foster care or other out-of-home placements while families work through treatment plans. The system ultimately focuses on safety, stability, and long-term well-being for children across Colorado.