Over the last 150-plus years, Lucas County Children Services has operated under several names—The Protestant Orphan’s Home, Lucas County Children’s Home, Miami Children’s Home, and others. While the name has changed over time, one thing has remained constant: a deep commitment to supporting both children and their families.
LCCS caseworkers have always worked to help parents alongside their children. Every family’s situation is different, but the common thread is the dedication of caseworkers to ensure children are safe while parents build the stability needed for a healthy home.
Caseworkers begin by meeting families where they are—seeking to understand the unique challenges within each household. These may include abuse, neglect, unsafe living conditions, substance dependency, or overwhelming stress. From there, they develop individualized plans focused on creating safe environments, whether at home, with relatives, or in foster care. They also connect families with community resources such as parenting classes, mental health services, and substance use treatment.
“The prospect of working with LCCS can be scary for families,” said Renee Lewis, assistant manager in the Department of Family Services. “Our caseworkers focus on each family’s strengths and build from there—prioritizing persistence over perfection.”
The process often begins with the intake team.
“I think of our intake team as the agency’s ‘air traffic controllers,’” said emergency intake supervisor Abigail Galligan. “Even though they’re often on the phone rather than in homes, they’re making sure every situation is handled safely from the start.”
When a call comes in, intake caseworkers ask detailed questions to assess the situation. Some cases require an immediate response and coordination with law enforcement. Others call for a more measured investigation. In every case, accuracy and urgency are balanced carefully.
“For families in crisis, our team provides that essential ‘deep breath’ that keeps situations from escalating,” Galligan said. “By gathering the right information early, they help ensure informed decisions about safety and next steps.”
For many families, navigating the social service system can be overwhelming—especially for those experiencing homelessness or substance dependency. Caseworkers provide hands-on support, helping parents schedule appointments, complete applications, find housing, secure childcare, and access employment opportunities. In some cases, they even accompany parents to appointments to ensure follow-through.
“Our caseworkers check in again and again—even when progress is slow,” Lewis said. “They offer guidance, accountability, and practical support to help parents move forward.”
As Lewis noted, every family’s journey is different. Progress may come quickly, or it may take time—and sometimes include setbacks. What remains constant is the goal: ensuring safety, building stability, and, whenever possible, reuniting families.
~ RETURN TO NEWSLETTER ~