Family Supports and Services

View or download the full digital media kit. 

Thanks to nominations from across the state, DCYF and Seattle’s Child recognized 28 parents, caregivers, and community members for Parent Recognition month this past February. All of the honorees were celebrated again as 140 Washingtonians gathered for the Unsung Hero Event on Feb. 26, 2026.

I recently shadowed a caseworker in Bremerton, and it gave me an even deeper appreciation for social workers.

I invite you to watch this short video to get a glimpse of what I observed: Secretary Senn Shadows a Social Worker

Beginning Feb. 1, the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) will honor parents, caregivers, and advocates who have shown their commitment to help reduce child abuse and neglect. 

On Dec. 17, 2025, DCYF child welfare staff and leadership from across Washington state gathered to discuss the impact High Potency Synthetic Opioids (HPSO) are having on families and the child welfare system.

Read the full message in Español and Soomaali.

Although the current government shutdown is not directly impacting DCYF programs or services, many benefits accessed by the children, youth, and families we serve are affected. 

The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is now accepting Unsung Hero Award nominations for 2026!

Across Washington state there are parents taking child development classes, going through substance use disorder treatment, and finding jobs, housing, and transportation to strengthen their skills and create an environment where they and their children can flourish. 

The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) celebrated their third year of the Engaging Fathers Award this month by recognizing Charles Diggle, a father of three from Grays Harbor County.