DHS delivers a wide range of human services designed to promote self-sufficiency and well-being for all Georgians. The department is one of the largest agencies in state government with an annual budget of $1.8 billion and approximately 8500 employees. DHS is comprised of three divisions and seven offices.

DFCS is the division within DHS that investigates child abuse, identifies foster homes for abused and neglected children; helps low income and out-of-work families get back on their feet; assists with childcare costs for low income parents who are working or in job training programs; and provides a number of additional support services and innovative programs to provide aid to troubled families.

DHS developed a centralized system for receiving reports of abuse and neglect in 2013. The Statewide Child Protective Services Intake Communications Center (CICC) is responsible for receiving reports of abuse for children residing in Georgia.

The Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) shall receive reports 24 hours a day, seven days a week, of known or suspected instances of child abuse and neglect, including reports of physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation or negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child under circumstances that indicate that the child’s health or welfare is threatened.

For the purposes of child abuse and neglect reports, the term “child” shall mean an individual who has not yet attained 18 years of age, who is not an emancipated minor

For the purpose of child abuse and neglect reports, an allegation of abuse and neglect shall contain the following three required components:

• An alleged maltreater who is a person reported to have caused or knowingly allowed maltreatment of a child. Maltreater relationships are classified as any of the following:
  • A caregiver: Any person providing a residence for a child or any person legally obligated to provide care or secure adequate care for a child, including his or her parent, guardian, or legal custodian;
  • Other adult that continually or at regular intervals live in the home;
  • Persons responsible for the care of the child;
  • An employee of a public or private residential home, child care institution, day or child care facility;
  • School personnel.
• A child from birth to under the age of 18 who is not an emancipated minor.
• Known or suspected allegations of child abuse and neglect per Georgia statute and DFCS policy. (See Practice Guidance)

DFCS shall be available and accessible to the community continuously 24 hours a day, seven days a week via a centralized intake call center (CICC) which may be contacted by calling (1-855-GA-CHILD).