Child Welfare & Protection

Working Together to Support Children’s Safety and Well-Being

Child Protective Services works to protect the safety and well-being of children in our community. The program supports families, responds to reports of abuse or neglect, and helps children grow up in stable and caring homes. Staff partner with families, caregivers, child care providers, and the community to reduce risk and strengthen long-term stability for children.

The Child Protective Services team is located at the Pitt County Office Building at 1717 W 5th Street, Greenville, NC 27834.

How Child Protective Services Supports Children and Families

• Adoptions and Child Placement Unit: Supports adoption and matches children with permanent homes.
• In-Home Services Units: Works with families when safety concerns can be addressed in the home.
• Intake and Investigation Units: Reviews reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or dependency.
• Foster Care Case Management Unit: Provides support for children living temporarily outside their homes.
• Foster Care Licensing Unit: Recruits and trains foster parents.
• Under Our Wings: Leads foster and adoptive parent recruitment and support.

Child Care Provider Training

• Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment: A free two-hour course required for child care staff.
  Access the Required Training Now
• NC Child Care Rules: Providers must understand supervision, safety expectations, and reporting requirements.
  View NC Child Care Rules 

Youth Labor Protections and Work Permits

North Carolina sets rules to help youth work safely and responsibly. Families and employers should understand permitted jobs, age requirements, and work hour limits before a minor starts a job. These protections help young people gain work experience while ensuring safe conditions and proper supervision.

• Youth Employment Certificates: Required for teens ages 14–17 before employment.
• Safe Work Requirements: Certain types of work and late-night hours may be restricted.
• Apply Online: Apply for a Youth Employment Certificate Now