Mailing address for OCA:
P.O. Box 809
Jefferson City, MO 65102

Missouri Child Abuse
Hotline: 800-392-3738

Office of Child Advocate

We are independent.   The Office of Child Advocate is part of the Office of Administration. We operate independently from the Department of Social Services (DSS) Children's Division and other agencies.

We are impartial.  The Office of Child Advocate acts as an impartial fact-finder. We step in when an agency action or failure to act is in question.

We protect confidentiality.   The Office of Child Advocate will not disclose your identity to the agency without your permission. Our records are confidential.

We work to improve services.   The Office of Child Advocate examines laws, policies, procedures, and practices regarding effective delivery of services to families and children. We identify issues and offer appropriate recommendations.

The Office of Child Advocate investigates complaints about an agency action or failure to act and is authorized to make recommendations in cases involving:

• Any child at risk of abuse, neglect, or other harm.
• A child or family involved with child protection or child welfare services.