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Child Protection
The Stevens County Child Protection Team works within state and federal guidelines and mandates to protect the children of Stevens County from abuse and neglect. When children are harmed or neglected by the people who are responsible for their care, the county has a responsibility to act to ensure their safety.
If you know or suspect that a child is in immediate danger, call 911 right away.
Responsibilities
By Minnesota Statute 260E, the child protection system responds to situations where children are alleged to be maltreated, and it helps support families to safely care for their children.
How to make a Child Protection Report:
Written Report: complete and submit the Child Maltreatment Reporting form.
The Child Maltreatment Reporting Form can be emailed to intake@co.stevens.mn.us, or faxed to 320.585.2954, or returned to our office in person at 400 Colorado Ave, Suite 104 Morris, MN 56267.
Verbal Report: call 320.208.6600 and ask to speak to the intake worker.
After Business Hours:
Call: Stevens County Dispatch at 320.208.6500
Email: intake@co.stevens.mn.us OR Fax: 320.585.2954
Mandated Reporting
Minnesota law mandates that any person whose job involves working professionally with children and who has reason to believe that a child is being neglected or physically or sexually abused shall immediately report the suspected incident to local police or child protection agency.
For more information on mandated reporting, read: A Resource Guide for Mandated Reporters (PDF)
Mandated reporter training is available through the DHS Child Welfare Academy. Follow the link below to access the Training Academy.
Voluntary Reporting
Anyone may voluntarily report suspected child abuse or neglect. Persons who work with children or families are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
Leaving Your Child Home Alone
All parents eventually face the decision to leave their child home alone. Whether they are just running to the store for a few minutes or working during after-school hours, parents need to be sure their child has the skills and maturity to handle the situation safely. The document below provides guidelines that Stevens County uses to assist in determining when it's appropriate for a child to be left home alone.