The OCA is an independent state agency with the primary responsibility to receive and investigate complaints concerning the administrative actions of agencies within the child welfare system. In addition to addressing complaints, the Office of the Child Advocate makes recommendations to the Governor, the Legislature, and MDHHS for changes in child welfare laws, rules, and policies to ultimately improve outcomes for children.
On December 12, 2023, Public Act 303 of 2023 changed the name of the Office of Children’s Ombudsman to Office of the Child Advocate (OCA).
Our core mission remains unchanged.
The OCA advocates for children by collaborating with state policymakers and elected officials to bring attention to the challenges within Michigan's child welfare system. We provide recommendations for improvement derived from casework and investigations to bring about positive change.
The child welfare system is a vast, interconnected set of institutions and agencies. The OCA can provide resource information to families involved in Michigan’s child welfare system. In addition, the OCA intake staff can provide insight into the system's processes.
The OCA has the authority to investigate complaints regarding the child welfare system, which includes Children’s Protective Services, foster care, adoption, child-placing agencies, childcaring institutions, and residential facilities providing juvenile justice services.
The Office of the Child Advocate operates with integrity, valuing diversity and inclusivity. We foster a supportive community where every voice is heard and respected. Through empathy, we create a safe environment, promoting the rights and well-being of all children in the child welfare system.
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call 855-444-3911.
If you or someone you know feels overwhelmed by the demands of parenting. Call Parenting Awareness Michigan (PAM) at 1-800-968-4968 for information about family support resources in your community.
Frontline Strong Together: 833-34-STRONG: 24/7 support for first responders and their families (police, EMS, fire, Dispatch, and Corrections).
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call 855-444-3911.
If you or someone you know feels overwhelmed by the demands of parenting. Call Parenting Awareness Michigan (PAM) at 1-800-968-4968 for information about family support resources in your community.
Infant Safe Sleep Awareness and education plays an important role in preventing sleep-related infant deaths. Most people think this would never happen to them, but the sad reality is that a baby dies nearly every other day in Michigan and these deaths are overwhelmingly preventable.
To keep babies 0-12 months of age safe, while sleeping at night and during naps, follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines:
If you are applying for the first time, please consider the Healthy Michigan Plan!
The Healthy Michigan Plan provides health care benefits to Michigan residents at a low cost so that more people can have health care coverage. Individuals are eligible for the Healthy Michigan Plan if they meet specific requirements:
