Family Separation Rapid Response Team Publishes Final Report
The Family Separation Rapid Response Team has released its final report. This report marks the transition to the next phase of this work, which will continue under the Governor’s Immigration Subcabinet.
Q&A: State Auditor’s Office Audit Findings of DCYF Programs
The State Auditor’s Office (SAO) recently released its Financial Statements and Federal Single Audit, which reviewed federal funds used by state agencies, including the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
Working Connections Child Care Program Updates Webinar
The 2026 legislative session included significant changes to Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) policy and rates to achieve cost savings in response to the state’s budget needs.
DCYF is hosting webinars to share updates on these changes, how they will be implemented, and their impact to providers who participate in WCCC.
Child Abuse Prevention Month Digital Media Kit Now Available
Child Welfare Leader Dedicates Nearly Four Decades to Social Work
Over the course of several decades, Dr. Joel Odimba has had every job you can imagine in the child welfare space. This June he will retire after more than 30 years of public service to the state of Washington. Odimba has not only changed the lives of the families he partnered with but left his mark on the child welfare system as a whole.
Unsung Heroes: Community Celebrates Advocates Helping Children and Families Thrive
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.
Gov. Ferguson Signs PreK Promise Account into Law, Enabling Public-Private Partnership to Expand Early Learning
Legislature, Ballmer Group, and Department of Children, Youth, and Families celebrate landmark legislation that will bring high-quality PreK to thousands of families
End-of-Legislative Session Webinar (Español | Soomaali)
As you may have heard, the Legislature concluded its session last week and passed the supplemental operating budget, which include recommendations to address the state’s $1.9 billion budget deficit.
What I Discovered After Spending a Day with a Social Worker (English | Español | Soomaali)
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
