Child Safety and Family Well-Being

Together, we can keep children safe by keeping families strong.

Imagine a community where families feel supported and valued. A place where parents and caregivers know exactly where to turn when they have a question or experiencing stress – and are met with respect, not judgment. In this community, families can access help early, in ways that fit their lives, cultures, and strengths. Neighbors look out for each other. Schools, health care providers, early childhood programs, faith groups, employers, state agencies, and community organizations work together so that families don’t have to navigate systems on their own.

Maine’s Child Safety and Family Well-Being Plan, developed in partnership between the Department of Health and Human Services and Maine Child Welfare Action Network, is a statewide framework to create the conditions for family well-being and child safety. It is an open invitation and call to action for state agencies, community organizations, neighbors, friends, and professionals to advance work focused on what we want to promote for families – not simply what we want to prevent.

Maine's Child Safety and Family Well-Being Plan (2025-2030)

Goal A: Parents and caregivers provide safety, health, and nurturing care for their children.

  • Strategy 1: Provide economic and concrete supports for parents and caregivers.
  • Strategy 2: Provide equitable and timely access to low-barrier supports and services for children, youth, and families.

Goal B: Families experience a supportive and coordinated child safety and family well-being system.

  • Strategy 3: Build partnerships with families.
  • Strategy 4: Promote supportive communities.
  • Strategy 5: Improve coordination of state and community partners.

Read the plan:

Annual Reporting

Tracking Progress

Progress on the plan is assessed through indicators that measure whether our collective efforts are strengthening families and improving child safety.

Other Updates

For more information, contact Mariette Aborn, Special Projects Manager for Child and Family Well-Being, at mariette.aborn@maine.gov.