Catholic Relief Services (CRS) works with governments, local organizations, and communities to build strong systems that keep children safe, healthy, and supported in loving families. We focus on strengthening government leadership, training social workers, improving how services are delivered, and ensuring long-term funding and coordination across sectors such as health, education, and livelihoods. These systems are essential to preventing and responding to harm, such as abuse or neglect, and ensuring that children and families have access to healthcare, education, and other critical services that keep them safe and help them reach their full potential. In addition, through regional and global collaboration, CRS is building momentum worldwide for care that meets the needs of children and families.

To make this happen, CRS helps governments improve laws and policies that protect children and brings together key players—from social workers to faith leaders to people with lived experience in care. We provide training and mentorship to strengthen the workforce that supports families and helps communities promote child well-being. We also help track children’s needs and outcomes through improved data systems and advocate for sustainable investment in social services. By working at national, sub-national, and community levels, CRS helps create environments where children are safe, families are supported, and lasting change is possible. 

CRS strengthens child protection and social service systems in 15 countries around the world, leading to real, lasting improvements in the lives of children. We have influenced national laws, policies, and child protection strategies in countries like Moldova, Guatemala, Kenya, Zambia, Uganda and Malawi —helping governments to improve child protection and care and meet the needs of families through case management and holistic services. We've equipped thousands of social workers with the skills they need to better support children and families, and we've improved data systems to track children’s needs. From supporting national care guidelines in Kenya to helping shape plans for family-based care in Moldova, our work ensures that children are better protected and cared for within their families and communities.

Our impact is seen in stronger local systems and healthier families. In Nigeria, we helped secure government funding for children’s services, strengthened the child protection tracking system and enhanced reporting of violence against children. In Guatemala and Kenya, we strengthened coordination among multiple child protection agencies. In Moldova, we generated detailed estimates of the funding needed to deliver essential services for children. Whether helping children with functional limitations access services in Zambia or supporting family reintegration in Uganda, CRS is committed to creating environments where children are safe, supported, and able to thrive in loving families.

Explore the regions where CRS is transforming lives through your generosity. From Africa to Latin America, discover stories of hope and resilience across the globe.

With a team of Communications staff around the world, we can provide real-time updates during emergencies and on a wide variety of current issues and events facing the developing world and the international community.