Alberta's Ministry of Children and Family Services is responsible for child protection, foster care, adoption services, and family support programs across the province. When children face abuse or neglect, ministry workers investigate and, if necessary, place children in protective care. The ministry also operates early childhood development programs, supports families in crisis, and oversees licensed childcare facilities. Working with Indigenous communities on culturally appropriate services is a priority, as Indigenous children are overrepresented in the child welfare system. The ministry aims to keep families together when safely possible while ensuring children's wellbeing.