Child and Family Services - Augusta, ME

About the Office of Child and Family Services

The Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS), a division of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), operates its Augusta District Office at 35 Anthony Avenue. This agency is dedicated to ensuring the safety, permanency, and well-being of children and families throughout the state. The Augusta office serves as a critical touchpoint for residents in Kennebec County, providing access to child welfare programs, behavioral health resources, and early childhood services.

Key Services and Programs

OCFS manages a comprehensive array of services designed to support families in crisis and promote healthy development:

• Child Welfare: This includes Child Protective Services (CPS), which investigates reports of abuse and neglect. The goal is to keep children safe, preferably within their own families when possible, or to find permanent homes through foster care and adoption.
• Children's Behavioral Health: The office connects families with mental health support, including crisis intervention, residential treatment, and home-based community services for children with developmental or behavioral needs.
• Early Care and Education: OCFS oversees child care subsidies and the Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) to help families access high-quality child care.

Reporting and Crisis Support

While the physical office is open during standard business hours, OCFS operates a 24-hour Child Protective Intake Hotline (1-800-452-1999) for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. This line is staffed seven days a week, including holidays. For general inquiries or to speak with a caseworker regarding an ongoing matter, it is best to contact the office during regular weekday hours.

Location and Visiting

The Augusta District Office is located in the Anthony Avenue office park complex, situated off Civic Center Drive (Route 27). This location offers a more private and accessible setting than the main downtown State House complex. Visitors should be prepared to show identification and may be subject to security protocols to ensure the safety of staff and clients.