Media

Olympia —The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) will receive more than $540,000 annually over the next five years to focus on the prevention of maltreatment and the reduction of children and youth entry into foster care. DCYF was one of nine nationwide recipients of the federal Community Collaborations to Strengthen and Preserve Families grant. The grant is administered by the Children’s Bureau within the U.S.

Olympia — The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Secretary Ross Hunter met with community and government leaders to discuss the critical role child care plays in the U.S. economy.

Olympia— Today, the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Secretary Ross Hunter released an agency plan to improve foster parent engagement. After internal discussions with staff and foster parent groups, Secretary Hunter explains why foster parents serve such a critical role in the work of DCYF.

Olympia — The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) announced it will recognize previous work experience as an equivalency to meet the new licensing education requirements. On August 1, 2019, DCYF implemented new licensing regulations for licensed child care providers outlined in Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 110-300-0100.

Revealing Data Show Opportunities for Improvements

Olympia — The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) takes child safety seriously. Removing a child from their home is a delicate and stressful situation for all parties involved. Our number one priority is the safety of the child.

Olympia – The Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) has worked collaboratively with the child care provider community on updates to the family home and center licensing standards that are effective on August 1, 2019. DCYF is leading with technical assistance during the first year of implementation.

Olympia— On July 1, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) will merge with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Juvenile Rehabilitation, Office of Juvenile Justice and Child Care Subsidy Program, including Working Connections Child Care. DCYF’s current structure includes DSHS’ former Children’s Administration (child welfare services) and the former Department of Early Learning (child care services).

Olympia — A recent report published by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) shows that Washington State continues to expand access to preschool while also increasing enrollment and state funding.