Berks County Children and Youth Services was created to protect children under the age of 18 from abuse and neglect.
Berks County Children and Youth Services’ mission is to protect children and assure their well-being. In 2024, the organization received nearly 10,000 reports of child abuse or neglect, the most they have received since they started recording this information in 2008. A third of those 2024 cases resulted in an investigation.
Berks County Children and Youth Services provide services to families where abuse or neglect has occurred to help ensure that the affected child can safely return to their home. Some children are placed into services outside of their home, returning when it is safe for the child. And in some cases, the parents’ rights can be terminated, and the child is placed in an adoptive setting.
COVID-19 saw a spike in disaffected youth across Pennsylvania. It also affected the staff at Berks County Children and Youth. Between 2019 and 2023, 3,500 children and youth caseworkers across the state left their positions. In 2024, Berks County had its lowest number of filled caseworker positions. They had to adjust and adapt.
Berks County Children and Youth Services has used community-based services providers to assist in their work. They have revamped the organization and hired new staff. And they are working to make this challenging job more attractive and ensure that children receive the assistance that they need in order to not just survive but thrive.
Tickets not required to attend; the recording of the event, however, will be sent to all who purchase a free ticket. The community forum series aims to engage Berks County residents on pressing issues affecting their lives.
