Department of Children and Families

WHO WE ARE

We strive to protect children from abuse and neglect and, in partnership with families and communities, ensure children are able to grow and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.All children have the right to grow up in a nurturing home, free from abuse and neglect, with access to food, shelter, clothing, health care and education.We work toward establishing the safety, permanency and well-being of the Commonwealth’s children by: stabilizing and preserving families; providing quality temporary alternative care when necessary, safely reunifying families; and when necessary and appropriate, creating new families through kinship, guardianship or adoption.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The Department of Children and Families offers a unique opportunity for community volunteers who would like to make a difference in a foster child’s life. For a few hours of your time each month, you can participate on a panel that helps plan a brighter future for each child in care. DCF is required by law to review each foster child’s case every six months. The review is conducted by a three member panel, with one member being from the local community. A volunteer reviewer can make a difference for a child. We have opportunities in Cambridge at our area office. Volunteers must be 18 years of age and submit to a background check.