Children's Defense Fund

Child & Family Services — Child Welfare Advocacy in Washington, District of Columbia. The Children's Defense Fund is a nonprofit child advocacy organization founded in 1973 that focuses on policy and program development for children, particularly poor and minority children and those with disabilities. Operates Freedom Schools summer literacy programs, child welfare and juvenile justice campaigns, and the Beat the Odds scholarship.

Phone: (202) 628-8787

Address: 840 First Street NE, Suite 300, Washington, District of Columbia, 20002

Website: https://www.childrensdefense.org

Languages: English, Spanish

Services offered: Federal and state policy advocacy, CDF Freedom Schools summer literacy program, youth leadership development, child welfare campaigns, anti-poverty advocacy

Ages served: Children and youth birth–18

Good to know: State offices in California, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

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Frequently asked questions about Children's Defense Fund

How do I contact Children's Defense Fund?

You can call Children's Defense Fund at (202) 628-8787 or visit 840 First Street NE, Suite 300 in Washington, District of Columbia. Their website is https://www.childrensdefense.org.

What services does Children's Defense Fund offer?

Children's Defense Fund offers Federal and state policy advocacy, CDF Freedom Schools summer literacy program, youth leadership development, child welfare campaigns, anti-poverty advocacy. Serves Children and youth birth–18. The Children's Defense Fund is a nonprofit child advocacy organization founded in 1973 that focuses on policy and program development for children, particularly poor and minority children and those with disabilities. Operates Freedom Schools summer literacy programs, child welfare and juvenile justi

Are services at Children's Defense Fund free or low-cost?

Many community child & family services providers offer free, sliding-scale, or Medicaid-covered services. Call Children's Defense Fund at (202) 628-8787 to confirm pricing, accepted insurance, and any income requirements before your visit.

What languages does Children's Defense Fund support?

Children's Defense Fund reports providing services in: English, Spanish. If you need another language, ask about translation services or call 988 for free crisis support in English and Spanish.

Who is eligible for services at Children's Defense Fund?

Children's Defense Fund reports serving Children and youth birth–18. Eligibility can also depend on income, residency, and the specific service needed — call (202) 628-8787 to confirm before visiting.

What if I'm in crisis right now?

If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — for free, 24/7, confidential support. Veterans press 1; LGBTQ+ youth press 3.

In crisis? Call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential support. Veterans press 1. For immediate danger call 911.