The CARES Connection

CWS-CARES: What Is It?

​Child Welfare Services-California Automated Response​ and Engagement System (CWS-CARES) is the new system being developed for the State of California. CWS-CARES will be a modern, web-based software application that is flexible, scalable,​ and more intuitive to use. CWS-CARES will consolidate functionalities that are in various systems into a single system and include multiple interfaces with other applications, thus providing Child Welfare workers with critical case information more efficiently.

​CWS-CARES Highlights At A Glance

CARES is the new software system being developed for the State of California to comply with Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS) requirements.

• CARES will be implemented in two versions:
  • ​Version 1 (V1) launches in October 2026 ​
  • ​Version 2 (V2) launches in April 2028
• CARES V1 ​is intended to cover the functionality required to decommission CWS/CMS and support new policies and programs, such as Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), Resource Family Approval, and more.
• CARES V1 will have a statewide rollout approach, which means all users will implement CARES V1 at the same time in ​October ​2026.​

CWS-CARES Timeline​

CWS-CARES will be implemented in two versions. Version 1 launches in October 2026 and Version 2 launches in April 2028. Our communication approach supports the CWS-CARES project lifecycle and timeline. Proactive communication helps prepare users for the new system and manage potential resistance to change, ensuring a smoother transition and adoption.

Questions? Send us an email at DCFAS-CWS-CARESInfo or visit the Child Welfare Digital Services FAQs site for frequently asked questions.