EMPOWERING FUTURES
One Child at a Time
The Wood County Child Welfare & Protection Board is passionately committed to transforming the lives of children in need of assistance. We strive to provide unwavering support and a renewed sense of hope, paving the way for a brighter and more promising tomorrow.
In Wood County, two dedicated boards work hand-in-hand to support the health, safety, and well-being of children who are under investigation, in protective care, or receiving safety services through Wood County Child Protective Services:
Wood County Child Welfare Board
Operates under the direction of the Wood County Commissioners Court and the State of Texas, as outlined in the Texas Family Code §264.005.
Wood County Child Protection Board, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides essential administrative support and funding to the Child Welfare Board.
Our Mission
Protecting and Nurturing Children
Our mission is to assist and promote the well-being of abused, neglected, and dependent children in Wood County, Texas. We are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure these children have the opportunity to thrive in a safe and caring environment. By working closely with community partners, we aim to ensure the happiness and future success of every child under our care.
What We Do
The Child Welfare and Protection Boards work together to offer a range of services designed to support children in care. From initial clothing allowances to monthly financial gifts, we aim to meet the diverse needs of children entering the system. Our seasonal and back-to-school clothing allowances ensure that every child is prepared and confident for their educational journey. Additionally, we provide special gifts for birthdays, Christmas, and significant milestones like graduation and adoption.
Monthly Support
We provide financial assistance to cover essential needs, ensuring children have the resources they require for a stable life.
- Monthly Allowances: $20–$55 per child based on age
Clothing Allowances
Our clothing allowances help children feel comfortable and confident, whether they’re starting a new school year or celebrating the holidays.
- Initial Clothing Allowance: $240–$300 when a child first enters care
- Back-to-School Clothing Allowance: (school-age): $200–$300
- Seasonal Clothing Allowance (under school-age): $200–$300
Special Occasion Gifts
We offer gifts for birthdays, Christmas, and other special occasions, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to children in care.
- Birthday Financial Gifts: $42 to $60
- Christmas Support: $200–$250 per child, including a party with Santa and gifts for any biological children in the home
- Graduation and Adoption Gifts: $240 each
Additional Support
Caseworkers can request support for additional needs such as senior rings, driver’s ed, band instruments, prom attire, sports gear, and more.
Did You Know?
- Placement Types include Foster Care, Kinship Care, Fictive Kinship Care, and Adoptive Care.
- 76% of children removed from their homes in Wood County are placed outside the county—often far from familiar schools, friends, and community support.
- Only 6 licensed foster homes currently exist in Wood County, and they are full most of the time.
- Kinship Care is a relative where Fictive Kinship Care is a close family friend who step in to raise children, often with minimal state financial support. These caregivers, who are often grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives, provide the child with a stable and nurturing environment, often within the context of the child’s own culture and family network. Over 60% of children in Wood County are in kinship placements.
- On average, 50–80 children are under the active supervision of Wood County caseworkers at any given time.
Our Vision for Every Child
We envision a community where every child feels cherished, supported, and valued. Our goal is to ensure that each child grows up in a nurturing home, surrounded by love and understanding. We believe that with the right support, children can overcome challenges and achieve their full potential, knowing that their community stands with them.
Through collaborative efforts, we strive to create a future where every child in Wood County experiences a sense of belonging and security. Our vision is to build a community that prioritizes the safety and emotional well-being of its youngest and most vulnerable members, ensuring they have the foundation to lead fulfilling lives.
Our Core Beliefs
Community Responsibility
We believe that safeguarding children is a duty shared by every member of our community, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Compassionate Citizenship
Wood County is blessed with citizens who are deeply committed to the welfare of its vulnerable children, providing unwavering support.
Collective Action
By working together, we can create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and protected.
Supportive Networks
Building strong networks of care is essential for fostering the growth and success of children in need.
Empowerment Through Involvement
Engaging the community in child welfare efforts empowers us all to make a meaningful difference in young lives.
Sustainable Support
We strive to ensure that all children have access to consistent and sustainable support systems.
Cultural Sensitivity
Recognizing and respecting cultural differences is vital in providing effective care and support for children.
Commitment to Safety
Our unwavering commitment to child safety is at the heart of everything we do.