The CARES Connection

Welcome to The CARES Connection.

Your destination for all things CARES! 

Check back often for all the updates, developments, and news related to the replacement of CWS/CMS - currently in development!

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: Overview, New Features, & Benefits ›

CWS-CARES: New Features and Benefits of System Modernization ›

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.