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Strengthen the Evidence for Maternal and Child Health Programs

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Children's Bureau Name and Hierarchy: Roots and History

This document traces the evolution of the U.S. Maternal and Child Health Bureau from its birth as the U.S. Children's Bureau, which was established in 1912.

The current U.S. Children's Bureau is located in the Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and focuses on child welfare, including child protective services (child abuse and neglect) family preservation and support, foster care, adoption, and independent living.

Prepared by Dr. Taylor Ruhl, March 1998, using information in Hutchins VL. 1994. Maternal and Child Health Bureau: Roots. Pediatrics 94(5):695-699.

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