The Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) acts as a neutral, independent agency to ensure Kansas children and families receive adequate coordination of services for child safety and wellbeing.
OCA receives and responds to complaints regarding state agencies, service providers, and juvenile courts that adversely affect the health, safety, and wellbeing of children.  Through case and systemic recommendations, OCA seeks impact for best practices, policies, and law. 

The Office of the Child Advocate envisions a future where:

• Children are safe from harm
• Families have the opportunity to thrive.
• Change is effectuated through strengthening collaborative relationships, a comprehensive continuum of services, and innovation.
• The public has confidence and validated trust in agencies tasked with strengthening families and caring for children in Kansas.

 

OCA has the following values: Independence Neutrality Confidentiality Integrity Collaboration Innovation Education Data-Driven Advocacy

The purpose of the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) is to ensure that children and families receive adequate coordination of child welfare services for child protection and care through services offered by Department for Children and Families or the department’s contracting entities, Department for Aging and Disability Services, Department of Corrections, Department of Health and Environment, and juvenile courts. The Office of the Child Advocate serves as an independent voice for the safety, health, and well-being of children and families who are involved with the State child welfare and juvenile justice systems. 
 
OCA acts on complaints made by or on behalf of any child under 18 years of age and who is in the custody of the Secretary for the Department for Children and Families (DCF), alleged to be a Child In Need of Care, or is currently receiving services or treatment from the Department of Corrections that relate to state agencies, service providers, including contractors, subcontractors and any juvenile court, that may adversely affect the health, safety, and welfare of such child.