What is a key concern of the DCFS when dealing with minors?

The primary concern of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) when working with minors is centered around ensuring the safety and well-being of children. This focus is critical because the primary mission of child welfare agencies like the DCFS is to protect children from abuse and neglect and to ensure that they are living in safe environments.

DCFS has the responsibility to assess situations where children may be at risk and to intervene when necessary to prevent harm. This can involve taking children into protective custody if they are in immediate danger, providing services to families to help address issues that lead to risk, or facilitating permanency planning for children unable to safely remain at home.

While promoting academic achievement, family income stability, and fostering community relationships are important for the overall development and support of minors, they are secondary to the immediate need to ensure that children are safe and healthy. Only when a child's safety and well-being are assured can other supportive measures be effectively implemented.