Programs that investigate reports of child abuse, neglect or abandonment; document substantiated cases; provide for the temporary placement of children who, for their own protection, have been removed from the custody of the adults who are responsible for their care; work with families who are experiencing a problem with child abuse with the objective of facilitating continued family unification or reunification; and provide ongoing supportive services for children in permanent placement.

Individuals younger than age 18 who have been subjected to a persistent pattern of emotional abuse or deprivation which typically includes excessive verbal assaults, unpredictable responses, continual negative moods, constant family discord, double message communication and/or parental denial of the normal experiences which provide children with the assurance that they are loved, wanted, secure and worthy.

Individuals younger than age 18 who have been subjected to a persistent pattern of physical neglect which involves the failure of parents or caretakers to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, protection, supervision, and medical and dental care for the child.

Individuals younger than age 18 who have been subjected to a persistent pattern of abuse that involves unexplained injuries such as bruises, bite marks, burns, whipping marks, head injuries, fractures, whiplash, shaken infant syndrome or other abrasions, lacerations or scars that a child sustains at the hands of a caregiver.

Individuals younger than age 18 who have been sexually assaulted by a family member, acquaintance or stranger or who have been subjected to sexual exploitation in the form of child prostitution or child pornography.

Individuals younger than age 18 who have been persuaded or coerced to perform sexual acts in a film or photograph or who have been introduced to juvenile prostitution and forced or persuaded to perform sexual acts in exchange for money.