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Mailing address for OCA:
P.O. Box 809
Jefferson City, MO 65102
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Missouri Child Abuse
Hotline: 800-392-3738

Our Mission

The Office of Child Advocate (OCA) was established in December of 2002 as an agent of accountability regarding Children's Protection and Services. The OCA operates under the Office of Administration and is, therefore, independent of the Department of Social Services/Children's Division, the Department of Mental Health, and the Juvenile Court. The OCA provides an avenue through which citizens are able to obtain an independent and impartial review of disputed decisions, actions and inactions regarding any child at risk of abuse, neglect or other harm.

Our Charge

There are three primary responsibilities of the Office of Child Advocate:

  1. To receive, investigate and act on complaints, offering recommendations as necessary.
  2. To provide an annual report to the Governor and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, including recommendations for improving the system.
  3. To educate the public regarding the child welfare process in Missouri, while increasing public awareness of the Office of Child Advocate.