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What Does CPS Consider a Dirty House: Understanding Child Protective Services’ Standards

Child Protective Services (CPS) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children. As parents, it’s essential to be aware of what CPS considers a dirty house to ensure that our homes meet the necessary standards. By understanding these guidelines, we can create a safe and clean environment for our children.

Defining CPS : Child Protective Services is an agency responsible for safeguarding children from neglect, abuse, and harmful living conditions. They work diligently to assess homes and determine whether they provide suitable environments for child development.

Importance of understanding : Knowing what CPS considers a dirty house enables us to address any potential issues proactively. It helps us maintain not only cleanliness but also proper hygiene practices within our dwellings. By doing so, we can protect our children’s health and avoid any unnecessary intervention from CPS.

When it comes to evaluating home conditions, CPS takes into account several factors before considering a house as “dirty.” These considerations go beyond mere tidiness; they focus on aspects vital for maintaining the health and welfare of children within their living spaces.

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into what specifically constitutes a dirty house according to CPS guidelines. We will explore common reasons why houses are deemed unclean by this agency and discuss how such conditions may impact child welfare physically and emotionally. Additionally, practical tips on maintaining clean living environments will be shared—essential advice that can help you prevent issues with CPS while ensuring your child’s safety at home.

Remember, creating healthy surroundings goes hand in hand with fostering optimal growth for your little ones! So let’s dive into the intricacies of what exactly defines cleanliness according to Child Protective Services (CPS).

Table of Contents

Defining “Dirty House” According to CPS Standards

Child Protective Services (CPS) has clear guidelines on what constitutes a dirty house. Understanding these standards is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our children.

A Detailed Explanation of CPS Guidelines

CPS defines a dirty house based on specific health and sanitation standards that every living environment should meet. These guidelines aim to ensure the well-being and safety of children within their homes.

Health and Sanitation Standards : CPS expects homes to maintain cleanliness in various aspects, including personal hygiene, waste management, food storage, pest control, and cleanliness of common areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Neglecting these areas can have severe consequences for child welfare.

Impact on Well-being and Safety : The condition of the home directly affects the physical health, emotional well-being, and overall safety of children residing there. Unclean living environments expose children to potential hazards such as allergens or contaminants that may lead to respiratory issues or infections. Moreover, living in unsanitary conditions can negatively impact children’s self-esteem, confidence, happiness levels—crucial factors for their healthy development.

By adhering to CPS’s definition of a clean house as outlined by their guidelines concerning health standards and considering its impact on child welfare holistically—we can create an environment where our little ones thrive physically and emotionally without any unnecessary risks or concerns.

How Does a Dirty House Impact Child Welfare?

Ensuring a clean and hygienic living environment isn’t just about appearances; it directly affects the well-being of our children. Let’s explore the various ways in which a dirty house can impact child welfare.

A. Physical Health Risks Associated with Unclean Living Environments

A dirty house exposes children to several health hazards, leading to an increased risk of allergies, respiratory problems, and infections. Dust mites, pet dander, and mold thrive in unclean environments, triggering allergic reactions that can manifest as asthma or chronic rhinitis. These conditions may significantly compromise a child’s quality of life and require ongoing medical attention.

Furthermore, poor sanitation practices contribute to the spread of bacteria and viruses within the household. Inadequate waste management or improper food storage attracts pests like cockroaches or rodents that carry harmful pathogens. Such unsanitary conditions increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal illnesses like food poisoning or parasitic infections.

B. Impact on Emotional Well-Being and Mental Health Development

Living in a perpetually dirty house can have adverse effects on a child’s emotional well-being and mental health development as well:

Effects on self-esteem: Growing up in an unkempt environment can lead to feelings of embarrassment or shame for children when inviting friends over or comparing their living situation with others’. This may result in lowered self-esteem levels.

Impact on confidence: The constant exposure to cluttered spaces makes it challenging for children to develop organizational skills and maintain tidiness later on in life. This lack of confidence regarding cleanliness habits can hinder their overall personal growth.

Overall happiness: An unclean home often leads to heightened stress levels for both parents and children alike due to discomfort caused by messiness, odors, pest issues, etc., affecting everyone’s general sense of happiness within the household.

By understanding the impact of a dirty house on child welfare, we can recognize the urgency to maintain a clean and healthy living environment. In the next section, we will provide practical tips to help you prevent issues with CPS while ensuring your home is clean and safe for your children’s well-being.

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Can CPS Take My Child for a Messy House: Understanding the Impact of Household Conditions on Child Welfare

Introduction: can cps take my child for a messy house.

In today’s world, child welfare is a paramount concern, and Child Protective Services (CPS) plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children. One question that often arises is whether CPS can take a child away from their parents due to a messy house. In this article, we will delve into this complex issue, exploring the factors that CPS considers, the significance of household conditions, and the steps parents can take to maintain a safe and suitable living environment for their children.

The Role of CPS: Safeguarding Children’s Well-being

Child Protective Services (CPS) is an agency entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding children from neglect, abuse, and hazardous living conditions. While a messy house alone may not be the s ole reason for CPS intervention, it can contribute to concerns about a child’s welfare. CPS’s primary focus is on ensuring that children grow up in environments that promote their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Understanding Messy House as a Concern

The spectrum of messiness.

When discussing a messy house, it’s important to differentiate between a cluttered home and one that poses genuine hazards to a child’s safety. Clutter and disorganization are common, especially in households with young children. However, extreme levels of messiness that result in unsanitary conditions, structural hazards, and the inability to provide proper care may raise red flags for CPS.

Health and Safety Implications

A messy house can have various health and safety implications for children. Accumulated clutter can harbor pests, allergens, and mold, potentially leading to respiratory issues and other health concerns. Additionally, cluttered spaces increase the risk of accidents, such as trips and falls, which can be particularly hazardous for young children.

CPS’s Assessment and Decision-Making

Comprehensive evaluations.

When CPS receives a report or becomes concerned about a child’s living conditions, they conduct thorough assessments. These assessments involve evaluating the overall environment, checking for potential hazards, and considering the child’s immediate and long-term well-being.

Holistic Approach

CPS takes a holistic approach when evaluating household conditions. They consider not only the physical state of the house but also the parents’ ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Factors such as the presence of essential utilities, access to medical care, and the child’s emotional needs are all taken into account.

Steps to Ensure a Safe Living Environment

Regular cleaning and organization.

Maintaining a clean and organized home is essential for creating a safe living environment. Regular cleaning routines can help prevent the buildup of clutter and ensure that the space remains sanitary and habitable for both children and adults.

Addressing Safety Hazards

Parents should prioritize identifying and addressing safety hazards within the home. This includes securing heavy furniture, keeping hazardous chemicals out of reach, and ensuring that electrical outlets are childproofed.

Seeking Support

If parents find themselves overwhelmed by the task of maintaining a tidy home, seeking support from friends, family, or community resources can make a significant difference. Sometimes, a helping hand can alleviate stress and contribute to a more organized living space.

In conclusion, while a messy house alone may not lead to CPS taking a child away from their parents, it is essential to recognize the potential risks associated with an excessively cluttered and hazardous living environment. CPS’s primary concern is the well-being of the child, and they will assess various factors before making any decisions. By prioritizing cleanliness, organization, and safety, parents can create a nurturing home that supports their child’s growth and development.

1. Can CPS take my child solely because my house is messy?

CPS considers various factors when assessing a child’s living conditions. While a messy house may raise concerns, it is unlikely to be the sole reason for intervention.

2. What should I do if I’m struggling to keep my house clean?

If you’re finding it challenging to maintain a clean home, consider reaching out to friends, family, or local resources for support. Small steps can make a big difference.

3. How can I childproof my home to ensure my child’s safety?

Childproofing involves securing furniture, covering electrical outlets, and keeping hazardous items out of reach. Regularly inspect your home for potential safety hazards.

4. What happens during a CPS assessment?

During a CPS assessment, social workers evaluate various aspects of your home and family life to determine the overall well-being of your child.

5. Where can I find more information about CPS and child welfare?

For more information about CPS and child welfare, you can visit their official website or contact your local CPS office.

• 1 Introduction: can cps take my child for a messy house
• 2 The Role of CPS: Safeguarding Children’s Well-being
• 3.1 The Spectrum of Messiness
• 3.2 Health and Safety Implications
• 4.1 Comprehensive Evaluations
• 4.2 Holistic Approach
• 5.1 Regular Cleaning and Organization
• 5.2 Addressing Safety Hazards
• 5.3 Seeking Support
• 6 Conclusion
• 7.1 1. Can CPS take my child solely because my house is messy?
• 7.2 2. What should I do if I’m struggling to keep my house clean?
• 7.3 3. How can I childproof my home to ensure my child’s safety?
• 7.4 4. What happens during a CPS assessment?
• 7.5 5. Where can I find more information about CPS and child welfare?

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• Mandated Reporter
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Home » How Do I Call In a Report? » What Criteria Must Be Met?

What Criteria Must Be Met?

Five criteria cps needs to register a report:.

You do not need to be certain that child abuse or neglect has occurred before you call the Child Abuse Hotline . However, you do need to have a reasonable suspicion . When you call, Child Abuse Hotline staff member will ask you to explain the information and circumstances that caused your suspicion.

Child Abuse Hotline staff members must use the five criteria based on state law to assess each call. Hotline staff will ask you about the child, the child’s family or persons legally responsible for the child and the circumstances in which you believe abuse or neglect took place. CPS needs this information in order to register a report . “Registering” a report means that CPS has enough information to follow up with the family and begin an investigation .

If you have a reasonable suspicion that abuse or neglect has occurred, you should always call the Hotline. If all of the necessary information is not available when you call the Hotline, CPS cannot register the report and may make other recommendations.

Below are the five criteria CPS uses to assess each call to the Hotline.

What Parents Need to Know: School Reports to CPS, Communicating with the School, and Advocating for Your Child

December 03, 2019 by rise, an interview with the bronx defenders.

Interview by Ray Watson, Shakira Paige, Sarah Harris and Keyna Franklin

Throughout Rise’s series on schools and child welfare, parents describe how school reports to child protective services took them by surprise. Sometimes, the calls were made without sufficient cause . Other times, problems at home escalated when schools were not willing or able to adequately address a child’s behavior problems . Even for families who got help, the trauma of child welfare involvement far over-shadowed the benefits.

Here, Asia Piña and Crystal Baker-Burr, a social worker and an education attorney at The Bronx Defenders, warn parents that some schools may call in reports far more quickly than others. They suggest ways parents can navigate challenges and improve their relationship with their child’s school to avoid unnecessary reports.

Q: Who trains school staff to be mandated reporters and how to decide what reports to call in?

Baker-Burr : In order to become a certified teacher in New York State, there is a two-hour online self-guided course . There could be school-by-school training as well.

As far as I know, there’s no real way that the New York City Department of Education is evaluating how people are taking in this information. There is no refresher course that we know of. That means we could have people that are teaching or working in schools that have forgotten the rules about reporting and could be calling in cases that don’t need to be called in.

In my experience, there seems to be a lack of understanding of the huge impact that these calls can have on a family. When that one call is made, it can trigger a lot of serious life consequences for a family and for a child. The impact and the trauma from having family court involvement can be enormous. That can compound any struggles the child was going through to begin with, rather than help the child, who was the subject of the report.

Q: Is spanking a child considered abuse, and is a school required to call in a report if a child says, ‘Mom hit me’? 

Baker-Burr : According to New York State law, corporal punishment itself does not constitute neglect, but “excessive corporal punishment” does. What excessive corporal punishment means is not clearly defined in the law. It is litigated in family court because people interpret that differently. There’s a whole body of case law—how judges have ruled in past cases about what could make something excessive or not—but there isn’t a clear answer across the board.

In most of the cases that I have seen, ACS sees corporal punishment as excessive when the child has marks or bruises, or the child reports being hit by objects.

We are all informed by our life experiences, that is why it is important to have diverse educators. A teacher or school staff member who grew up kneeling on rice as a punishment might not call in a case when a child reports that is the way they are disciplined. On the contrary, a school staff member who wasn’t disciplined in that manner may see it as cruel and unusual and call in the case.

I want to highlight the fact that the decision to make these calls depends very much on the life experiences of the people in the school making the decision. Piña: How schools define excessive corporal punishment is a conversation to have with the school because every principal runs their school differently. For example, if a child says, ‘My mom hit me,’ some school officials may decide that they are required to call ACS.

Q: Parents can be reported for “educational neglect” if children are not attending school. Are schools required to call in a report after a certain number of absences, or do they have a choice?

Baker-Burr : We see many cases that are called in because the child has missed a lot of school days, but there’s no statute that defines how many days a child can or cannot miss. 

Piña : Sometimes schools call and other times they don’t. We often see phone calls to ACS if kids have been absent for 10 days or more. 

Baker-Burr: What is considered educational neglect by the court really is case specific . I’ve seen cases where a child has a disability classification and the court sees the absences more critically because they’re saying that the student isn’t receiving the services that are mandated.

On the other hand, a child may miss 20 days but is still doing well in school and is getting promoted to the next grade. In that situation, the attorney in the neglect case can fight against an educational neglect finding and say there was no harm or impairment to the child, which is a requirement to prove any neglect against a parent. 

The New York state law about educational neglect was recently modified. The new law gives leverage to parents and advocates who are working with a disgruntled school prior to a call to ACS. Now, ACS has to show that the school or the agency tried to take steps to solve whatever the problem was before getting a finding of educational neglect against the parents in Family Court. Without this, the petition can be dismissed. Therefore, we can use that to make suggestions to schools about what steps we think they should take to help the family, before calling ACS.

Q: If a student is missing a lot of school because of a housing problem or a health or mental health issue, how should a parent communicate with the school about it?

Baker-Burr: If your child is missing school for medical reasons, it’s important to get a letter from the doctor and to give a separate letter every single time there’s an absence in order to create a record. I suggest emailing the letters to create a paper trail. If the school has already threatened to call ACS, I think it makes sense to reach out to an advocacy organization like The Bronx Defenders before disclosing sensitive mental health or medical issues. Those disclosures could be used against a parent if a case is called in to ACS.

Piña: If it’s a housing matter, a letter needs to be written by the Department of Homeless Services or anyone at the shelter to explain the child’s absences. Providing proof of the reasons for the absences can minimize the chances of an ACS report. Parents can send documentation through emails, letters or even text messages to the teachers and school staff. If for any reason, the school calls in a case despite the provided written materials, the parents can show the ACS worker the communication with the school.  

Also, having personal conversations with the teachers and staff at the school can reduce the chance of a report being called in. 

Q: How can parents expect schools to work with them?

Baker-Burr : Parents and schools should be partners. If the school is having an issue with a parent or a child, they should be actively working to find solutions together with the parent, and when appropriate, the child as well.

I received a call today because my client’s young child had an incident at school. The school told the parent that she had to leave work and pick up her child or they would call the police. My client couldn’t leave work without losing her job, so she contacted me about what to do. I told her that she could ask the school what interventions they had tried with her child. For instance, she could tell the school the best way that she knows to calm her child and see if the school social worker, guidance counselor, or psychologist would be able to try that. By giving suggestions to the school about how to respond, she reminded them of their responsibility to try interventions before taking more extreme actions.   

Q: What other advice do you have for how parents can interact with a school to decrease the likelihood that a school will call a case on them? Piña:  Building rapport with school staff, teachers, and social workers can reduce the chances of a school calling in a case. This is especially important if the child receives any special education services. It’s important to always go to any meetings and be present at school activities and events. If you can volunteer, please do so. That way the school knows who you are as a parent and starts to know who you are as a person. 

Baker-Burr: Even before a call is made to ACS, there are groups that can stand by a parent. In the Bronx, there’s The Bronx Defenders . In Brooklyn, there’s Brooklyn Defenders Services . In Queens and sections of Manhattan, it’s the Center for Family Representation . In Harlem, parents can reach out to Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem . You can call and say, “I’m being threatened with ACS. I’d like some assistance.” The advocate can step in and help mediate the relationship with the school.

You can also call these organizations for legal representation during an investigation. With some recent new City Council funding, all of the parent defense organizations will have early defense teams that can assist parents and try to prevent an ACS case.

If the relationship between the parent and the school has soured because of a disagreement regarding special education services, I recommend the parent reach out to an education advocacy group. INCLUDEnyc has a hotline where a parent can call (212-677-4660) or text (646-693-3175) to get advice or a referral for legal representation in an education-related matter. The hotline operates Monday through Thursday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Advocates for Children provides low-income families with educational legal assistance and has an education helpline that parents can call (866-427-6033) Monday through Thursday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

If the relationship between a parent and a school cannot be improved, there’s also the option of getting a transfer. That’s not the answer all the time. But if you’re not being respected by the school, it’s OK to start fresh with a new administration that’s going to treat you properly.

If a school is continuously calling an ACS case against a parent, the parent has the right to file a complaint and go to the school district to discuss the situation. Parents can also reach out to a family defense organization to explore whether they have a claim that can be brought in court.

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How to Make an Anonymous CPS Report Online & Over the Phone

Last Updated: January 6, 2024 Fact Checked

How to Anonymously Report to CPS

• State Phone Numbers & Websites

Other Important Hotlines

• Who Can Report

How to Recognize Child Abuse

This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman . Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 390,710 times.

Any suspected child abuse or neglect is a serious issue, and it’s important to report it to Child Protective Services (CPS) as soon as possible. In the United States, CPS is managed on a state level, so it’s essential to contact your state’s CPS branch online or over the phone to make an anonymous report. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the reporting process, including useful phone numbers, websites, and hotlines. We’ll also cover the different types of child abuse and how to recognize them so you can be as informed as possible when making your report.

Things You Should Know

• Make an anonymous report online or over the phone using your state’s designated website and phone number.
• Provide as much detail as you can in your report, including the events or observations that caused you to suspect abuse.
• Call the Childhelp National Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 for additional advice on how to report child abuse.

• Check the State Phone Numbers & Websites for Reporting section below to find the best ways to report child abuse in your state.

• “Whenever I see Jake, an 8-year-old kid in my neighborhood, he’s always covered in bruises. I’m worried that his parents might be abusing him at home.”
• “Casey Perkins, a 12-year-old in my child’s class, frequently comes to school in dirty clothes, and she has an obvious body odor. My child also notices that she asks other students for part of their lunches—I’m concerned that she might be neglected at home.”
• “I volunteer at a summer camp, and I’m seriously concerned that Randall Ramirez, a 9-year-old kid there, might be getting sexually abused at home. They always seem to be in pain when they’re sitting down, and they tested positive for an STI at the infirmary.”

• Call the Childhelp Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 to learn if/how you can follow up on your case.

State Phone Numbers & Websites for Reporting

• * means that the website is meant for mandated reporters only
• ** means that the website may be unavailable

• Childhelp also offers text support at the same number and live chat support on their website.

• Keep in mind that CyberTipline is meant to report online child abuse, not adult abuse. If someone has posted inappropriate content of an adult online, visit the Stop Non-Consensual Image Abuse website or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center .

Who can make an anonymous CPS report?

• Visit the Child Welfare Information Gateway's website for more information about mandatory reporters.

• The child is absent often.
• The child doesn’t dress appropriately for the weather.
• The child seems filthy and smells bad.
• The child requests food and/or steals money from others. [7] X Trustworthy Source Child Welfare Information Gateway Online portal managed by the U.S. Children's Bureau providing resources related to childcare and abuse prevention Go to source

• A child with visible injuries (e.g., bruises, burns, bites, etc.).
• A child who’s visibly afraid of their parent or guardian.
• A child who’s fearful of adults.
• A child with disappearing injuries after being away from school. [9] X Trustworthy Source Child Welfare Information Gateway Online portal managed by the U.S. Children's Bureau providing resources related to childcare and abuse prevention Go to source

• A child with polarizing types of behavior (e.g., being incredibly submissive then being incredibly aggressive).
• A child who’s behind their peers when it comes to emotional development and maturity.
• A child who acts extremely mature or extremely juvenile.
• A child who has tried to take their own life in the past. [11] X Trustworthy Source Child Welfare Information Gateway Online portal managed by the U.S. Children's Bureau providing resources related to childcare and abuse prevention Go to source

• The child has trouble sitting down or walking around.
• The child mentions wetting the bed or having bad dreams.
• The child is uncomfortable switching clothes for gym class or doing physical things.
• The child gets pregnant or tests positive for an STI/STD. [13] X Trustworthy Source Child Welfare Information Gateway Online portal managed by the U.S. Children's Bureau providing resources related to childcare and abuse prevention Go to source

Expert Q&A

• Check out resources like ChildWelfare , HHS , MayoClinic , and KidsHealth to learn more about child abuse. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• If you’re ever confused about any part of the child abuse reporting process, call or text the Childhelp Hotline at 1-800-422-4453, or visit their website to chat with a professional. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

• If you suspect that a child’s life is in danger because of their abuse, call 911 rather than your state’s abuse hotline. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/responding/reporting/how/
• ↑ https://www.childhelphotline.org/how-it-works/
• ↑ https://mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20370864
• ↑ https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/signs.pdf
• ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20370864
• ↑ https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/identifying/emotional-abuse/
• ↑ https://hside.org/child-abuse-signs-symptoms/#types

About This Article

To make an anonymous report to child protective services, start by collecting as much information as you can about the situation, such as the child’s name, their parent’s names, address, age, and a description of their abuse or neglect. Since there are many child protective services across the country, call ChildHelp on 1-800-422-4453, who will direct you to the relevant authority. Alternatively, search online for your state or region, followed by “Child abuse hotline” to find the right organization for your area. However, if you suspect that a child is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 911. For more tips from our Legal co-author, including how to report child abuse or neglect in writing, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What Might Happen After a Report Is Filed?

Usually the identity of the person who filed the report remains confidential. Typically CPS and/or police do not share information with anybody about the progress of an investigation – even with a protective parent. This can feel frustrating, especially if the process is moving slowly.

Reports are reviewed for investigation

Once a report of child abuse has been made, the protective authorities (either child protective services or the police), decide whether or not to follow up the report. When a report is “screened in,” it means that protective authorities will follow up with an investigation. When it is “screened out,” it means that the report will not be investigated.

Reports can be “screened out”

When a report is “screened out," no action is taken, or the report is transferred to a more appropriate agency. Usually, a report is “screened out” when:

• There’s not enough information on which to base an investigation
• CPS or police judge the information to be inaccurate or false
• The information in the report doesn’t meet definitions for child abuse or neglect used by the protective authorities

When reports are “screened in”

When the protective authorities decide that the report may indicate child abuse, they must investigate the suspected abuse within a time period specified by state law, typically within 24 or 48 hours or up to 5 days, depending on the state. Sometimes there is a “preliminary” investigation to gather more information to determine whether or not they will proceed with a full investigation. However, when it is judged that there is no immediate danger to a child, CPS is allowed more time before they begin an investigation.

Who participates in the investigation?

Investigations may be managed by child protective services, by the police, or by both. Where criminal acts may have taken place, only the police can make arrests. The team of professionals involved in investigations can include a protective services worker, a doctor, therapist, social worker and law enforcement officials. Interviews may be held with the child, a non-offending parent, and the person suspected of sexually abusing. Sometime interviews are also held with the child’s brothers and sisters, and anyone else who may have knowledge about possible danger to the child such as neighbors, teachers, child care providers, doctors and therapists. As part of the investigation, the child is sometimes given a physical exam for the purpose of collecting evidence or attending to medical needs. Legally admissible confessions or disclosures often must be made directly to an investigator or professional.

The child interview

Interviews of the child should be held in locations where children feel safe. Generally, a child is not interviewed in their home; however, they may be interviewed at their school or therapist’s office. If there is a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in your community, you may be referred there for interviews and/or medical exams. CAC’s are centers especially designed to provide a child-friendly environment where the professionals who see the children have been trained in child interviewing and assessment.

When the investigation substantiates that abuse has taken place

If the investigation indicates that a child has been sexually abused, interventions are taken to protect the child from immediate harm. Police are also involved when criminal acts have taken place. Once the child is out of immediate danger, CPS decides what kind of follow-up actions are needed to keep the child safe. Follow-up actions might include ongoing supervision by the Department of Social Services, services for the whole family, as well as for the abused child, including counseling and support programs.

Often parents are frightened that children will be removed from the home. Remember that removing a child is always the very last resort that is considered. This is only done when it is confirmed that a child is not safe in their home due to the protective adult’s inability to prevent harm or adequately care for the child.

When abuse is not substantiated

After an investigation has been conducted, a case is considered unsubstantiated if the protective authorities determine that no abuse has taken place, or if there was not enough evidence to prove the suspected abuse took place. It can be extremely upsetting and disappointing when a parent believes their child is being abused but can’t get protection for the child from the system because of a lack of evidence.

Understanding Legal Issues

Hoarding disorder can have serious and devastating consequences. Beyond those relevant to housing, other consequences include:

• Public health and/or fire safety problems that put the home at risk for condemnation
• Neglect or abuse of children, elders, or disabled people living in the home due to accumulated possessions that threaten their safety (e.g., fire hazards, lack of clear pathways, risk of falling), impede development and care (e.g., space for children to play or do homework, have friends visit), or permit routine care activities (e.g., a functioning kitchen, a place to eat meals, access to a shower or bathtub).
• The mistreatment of animals due to animal hoarding

People with hoarding disorder may fail to recognize these dangers of their hoarding behavior, a characteristic that may stem from the nature of hoarding disorder itself. It is not surprising, then, that those with hoarding disorder may not feel motivated to change the conditions in the home. However, as the severity of hoarding disorder increases, sometimes others must act to prevent harm – in these cases, they can turn to the legal system for support.

The following are some situations in which the legal system becomes involved in cases of hoarding disorder.

• A landlord may petition the court to evict a tenant when excessive possessions or unsanitary conditions violate a lease
• Protective service workers may seek guardianship of children, disabled, or older adults when they determine that the consequences of hoarding disorder constitute abuse or neglect of these individuals
• Members of the public health or fire departments may appear before a judge for a court order to bring a property in compliance with health and safety codes or, in extreme cases, to condemn the property
• Animal welfare workers may petition the court to remove abused or neglected animals from their owner

Standard legal interventions in cases of hoarding disorder often involve sanctions, such as evicting the individual, mandating a clean out, or removing vulnerable individuals from the home. When this happens without other intervention, the underlying disorder is not addressed and recidivism is typically high. A growing number of judges and lawyers across the country are becoming aware that the legal system can play a key role in effecting enduring change in hoarding disorder cases with appropriate interventions that reflect understanding of hoarding as a social and personal problem, respect for the rights of individuals, and protection of those who are affected.

Officers of the court are working together with social service providers to implement a more sophisticated approach that coordinates both pressure on the individual to change and support in making necessary changes. A key part of this process is creating an explicit plan that clarifies necessary changes in the home and establishes a timeline to reach mandated benchmarks. For those who decline treatment but fail to make progress, judges can mandate treatment or other human service intervention.

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What do social services look for in a home visit

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As a social worker, depending on the type of visit, I can end up looking for many things. But in this article, I want to share what social services commonly look for in a home visit, regardless of the type of visit we are on.

Having a messy home, with dishes everywhere, clothes piled, and trash all over the floor… This is often one of the first warning signs that not everything is right in this home.

Whilst we are all human, and therefore imperfect, having a terribly messy home is not exactly the best impression you can make to a social worker that everything is under control.

Recently bought items

Many clients come to me telling me of their financial difficulties. But recently, I saw a client with a new phone in his hand when I visited at his home. Another client had a brand new wardrobe. Was their financial difficulty that severe?

Whilst I am not in a place to judge their purchases or what they choose to buy, as a social worker, I tend to look for recently bought big-ticket items as an indication of the family’s financial capability.

As a social worker, I often like to check if the family has enough food. It is not only whether there is enough food, but whether there is nutritious food. I remembered a client who used to feed his two young children bread and jam everyday. I was concerned that those two young children were not necessarily getting the nutrients they needed. In addition, I’ve seen other clients who have filled their entire fridge with microwave meals and freezer with frozen meals. These meals might not necessarily be the most healthy option for the family.

To do so, I tend to ask the client to show me his food cupboard, or his fridge to see if he has sufficient food for the family. I also like to see if the family has a way of cooking their food, by observing their cookers or ovens. This way, I can ensure that the family does not only have food, but a way to prepare the food.

Shower/bath area

Going into a client’s toilet can often reveal a lot about the client. I used to have a client who would do everything in his toilet. He would do his laundry, washing, and store his bicycle! It helped me to see what was safe and unsafe for him. I also started to look at what changes we could make to help him live better.

When I go into a client’s toilet, I tend to note if the place is safe. Then, I observe if the client has the normal toiletries, such as toothbrushes, toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. A lack of these things might show that the client is struggling financially to afford such items. Or he might not be engaging in regular self-care for his own good.

Having the right furniture in a home is necessary for the family to thrive, and just survive. I once encountered a family who didn’t have a dining table to eat on. They would frequently eat out or on the floor. They also didn’t have a fridge to store items. This meant that they could not cook much. In addition, they did not have a water heater for hot showers in the morning. All of these meant that the children were not able to feel a sense of belonging to home, and would often much rather be out of the home.

One of my first priorities as a social worker was to ensure that they had the necessary household furniture to make home more like home. I wanted them to feel at home and not just housed.

This eventually helped in building a greater relationship between the parent and her children. It also reduced the problems the children gave to their parent.

This is a list of things that I, as a social worker, would tend to look out for in a home visit. If you have other things that might be helpful, please feel free to add them in the comments below!

Home visits are a crucial part of a social worker’s day. I hope this helps you to answer what social services look for in a home visit.

To find out how you might do better at other areas of your work, you can check:

How to write better casenotes

How to manage caseloads

How to focus

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I’ve been involved with Social Services, recently. They tell me that, surprise visits, aren’t done anymore. Question, how do you expect to get the complete story, if they know you’re going? Neglect, abuse and other actions, will change, because they know you’re going. Then back to ‘normal’, when you’ve left. My situation is regarding my granddaughter. Her mum makes sure everything, appears, as it should, but in reality, a lot of things, will not be seen. We know this, because our granddaughter tells us.

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When It Is — And Isn’t —Appropriate To Call Child Protective Services (CPS)

Sometimes concerns arise and authorities need to be brought in. Here's how to make the call.

Parenthood puts you on alert. This is only natural. You are, after all, in charge of your child’s well-being. And whether through playdates or other parental obligations, you often end up in charge of other people’s kids. As such, there may come a time when you see or hear something that makes you concerned enough for a child’s safety that you consider making an anonymous call to Child Protective Services (CPS) — or, as they’re sometimes called, Social Services or Child and Family Services. The question of when to call CPS is not an easy one, as it carries with it a number of strong implications. But there are times when calling CPS is the right thing to do.

All parents need to be able to recognize the signs of child abuse. More than 700,000 kids are abused annually in the United States, and Child Protection Services is a crucial resource. But how do you know when to call CPS? What if you call Child Protective Services on another parent and your gut instinct was wrong?

The fear of making such a mistake is why many adults often hesitate to call Child Protective Services. A mere accusation can send a family into disrepair. And the last thing anyone wants is to make an incorrect assumption that breaks up a family or pisses off a parent.

Ellen Smith , a Clinical Associate Professor and Child Welfare Training Coordinator at the University of Wisconsin, knows this impulse all too well. “Child Protective Services,” she says, “has the power to intervene in one of the most fundamental relationships that Americans have: the right for parents to make decisions about how to take care of their own children.”

But Smith stressed that calling Child Protective Services is necessary for some situations — and it’s a call that’s much easier and less devastating than parents might think.

Here, Smith, along with Ayoka Chapple, a social worker with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, walks concerned parents through everything to know about calling CPS on another parent or guardian.

3 Specific Reasons To Call CPS

According to Smith, there are three main reasons to call Child Protective Services.

• Physical abuse. Does the child have signs of injury or do you believe there’s an imminent threat of violence?
• Sexual abuse. Have you seen signs of grooming for abuse , or behavioral signs in the kid such as flinching or raising of hands in a defensive manner? Do you suspect some kind of sexually abusive or exploitative behavior?
• Neglect . Does the child in question live in an unlivable environment? Are they left alone for long periods of time without proper care? A more thorough explanation can be found here .

When Shouldn’t You Call Child Protective Services?

First, Remember that Child Protective Services aren’t the police. If you hear or witness something that seems to be putting a child in immediate danger, call the police. Full stop.

Per Smith, many callers tend to confuse Child Protective Services with law enforcement. “We’re not in the punishment business,” says Smith. “We’re in the business of keeping kids safe in their homes.” It’s the job of the police, not CPS, to investigate calls of abuse or neglect.

When there is evidence of abuse, you need to contact Child Protective Services immediately. But Chapple says you shouldn’t pick up the phone if your claims don’t meet the above criteria. For instance, just because you suspect a father was drinking heavily doesn’t mean he actually has been abusive to a child. You will need to have something semi-substantial to be of service.

That said, you should report red flags. “A child wearing the same dirty clothes for days on end? That may not necessarily be evidence of neglect,” offers Chapple. “It could just mean their washing machine is broken.” In other words, how can you really know what’s abuse or just a weird circumstance?

Chapple and Smith say it’s not a caller’s job to determine whether abuse or neglect occurred. Rather, their job most often is to provide observations and information to CPS that helps social workers keep an eye on certain families or corroborate other people’s claims. So if you think there’s a legitimate reason to call CPS, do so, and let the experts decide whether the conditions are severe enough to warrant intervention.

What Happens After You Call CPS

By placing a call to the national child abuse hotline or connecting with local resources through state numbers , you’re telling an authority that you believe someone may be unfit to be a parent. And both Chapple and Smith say many cases aren’t reported because callers worry about retaliation from unfit parents who may also be unfit humans. Most states, however, allow those calling CPS to report cases anonymously. You might have to provide your name and address for a follow-up, but it won’t be disclosed. If the on-call worker fears immediate danger, then local offices dispense help that day.

Per Chapple, Los Angeles County DCFS receives about 200,000 calls a year but only investigates about 150,000 of them. It’s not because there are too many calls and not enough resources. It’s because the workers are trained professionals who know when a report requires action. They will discuss the case with the caller, explaining whether or not an investigation will follow, and why.

“Maybe it isn’t something that warrants intrusion into people’s lives,” Smith says. “Part of the job of someone answering the phone is to educate the caller.” So calling CPS, even if it doesn’t end in an investigation, can help educate and empower you for the future.

Several states threaten legal repercussions for false alarms about child abuse. But you don’t have to worry about them if you call in good faith — even if you make a report in error. Those rules are in place to discourage people with a grudge from using CPS as a weapon. “Typically where we see that is a neighbor or someone who has a vendetta who calls repeatedly to make false allegations,” says Smith. If you’re calling CPS with a serious suspicion that wasn’t actually a problem, you won’t face a penalty.

What Legislation Is There About Calling Child Services?

Federal legislation gives a general definition of abuse, but some critical details vary from state to state. Although you might not know those details, the trained social worker responding to the call certainly will.

“A common example would be that in some places if a child witnesses domestic violence, that’s considered child abuse and neglect,” says Smith. “In other states, witnessing domestic violence doesn’t constitute child abuse or neglect.”

So even if you find out that what you saw doesn’t meet state criteria, you should still call and let social services figure it out.

This article was originally published on Jan. 18, 2017

• Law Enforcement

When Are Unsanitary Conditions Considered Unlivable?

The word “unsanitary” is commonly used in everyday conversation — we’ve all seen dirty public restrooms or have let our laundry pile up a little longer than it should. But when does a living situation cross the line from merely being dirty to unsafe? How can landlords prevent their units from becoming uninhabitable? 

What is Considered “Unsanitary Conditions” in the home?

The legal definition of an unsanitary living condition can vary from state-to-state and even county-to-county. However, generally speaking, these definitions might include but are not limited to: 

• excessive dirt or filth in the home
• improper building construction or poor maintenance of living quarters
• buildup of animal or human waste
• insect and/or vermin infestations
• non-functional utilities such as water, gas, or electricity
• broken appliances such as furnaces and stoves. 

Depending on the situation, it may take just one or several of these unsanitary conditions to create a situation where a property is deemed unsafe, and thereby uninhabitable. However, the two situations — unsanitary and uninhabitable — are not exclusive. For instance, a residence with a malfunctioning furnace during the colder months could be deemed uninhabitable but not unsanitary; alternatively, a home with a poorly maintained roof or foundation that leaves openings for mildew, rodents, and insects to infest the home, could be both unsafe and uninhabitable. 

How Does a Home develop Unsanitary conditions?

Sometimes, the homeowner or renter themselves may be the ones responsible for making a residence unsanitary and/or unsafe. TV programs such as Hoarders and Hoarding: Buried Alive have brought the serious subject of hoarding to the forefront of media attention. According to The Cleveland Clinic , an estimated 2%-6% of the US population is affected with a hoarding disorder.

Hoarders do more than collect clutter; they typically save items long past their normal usefulness. The most commonly hoarded items include paper items like newspapers or magazines, clothing, or packaging (boxes/containers). One of the rarer but most destructive types of hoarding involves keeping animals. Others may preserve trash and other waste materials, including human waste. The problem becomes truly dangerous when the items begin to take over spaces in the home, preventing it from being occupied in a safe manner. One of the telltale signs of a hoarding situation is when items block access to doorways, exits, showers, kitchen appliances, or even toilets. Rather than move or dispose of the items, the hoarder will adapt their behaviors around them.

What Causes Hoarding?

Oftentimes, hoarding behavior is attributed to serious mental illness or disability, although the actual root causes of hoarding is not fully understood. Moreover, it can sometimes be challenging to distinguish a hoarder from a pack rat. The main determination made by professionals, including housing authorities, is whether the disorder is a personal preference or if it is a compulsion that has begun to seriously impact the individual’s health and safety.

How to Report Unsanitary Conditions in the home

If you think that a neighbor or loved one resides in living conditions that could be considered unsanitary or unsafe, it is extremely important to report it. Not only will this benefit them, but it can also prevent future headaches for yourself. After all, it’s easy for a rodent or pest infestation to spread, especially in apartment buildings and houses within close proximity of each other.

Start off by reporting your findings to the landlord (if there is one). It’s always in a landlord’s best interest to mitigate health issues discovered on their property, so they will most likely take swift action. However, if there is no landlord or if the landlord refuses to take proper action, contact your local health department . Before filing a complaint, be sure to brush up on your local tenant laws. There are some minimum requirements that need to be met, often including notifying the landlord and giving them a chance to fix the issue. The amount of time the landlord has to fix the issue depends on your local or state laws.

If you do file a complaint, be sure to include the following (whenever applicable):

• Your address
• The address of the affected property
• The issue and how long it has been going on
• Copies of communications with the landlord

Whenever hoarding is involved, it is very easy for unsanitary conditions to become unsafe. Whether you rent or own property, it is important to ensure repairs and maintenance are done as quickly and efficiently as possible. The consequences for not doing so may be a danger to one’s health and safety. Furthermore, if you or a loved one are living in a situation where the sheer volume of your possessions is making your home unsafe, please consider seeking out the advice of a mental health professional in your area.

Aftermath Services has over 20 years of experience in biohazard remediation and hoarding cleanup . We are dedicated to helping people get on the road to recovery by fully disinfecting affected properties in unsafe living conditions, including hoarding , unattended deaths , homicides and suicides. We’re available 24/7/365 so get in touch now to have a team of professionals at your doorstep within a few hours.

People Also Read:

• How Hoarding Impacts Families
• 5 Hoarding Levels
• 4 Tips for Hoarding Cleanup

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How messy does your house have to be to have involvement from SS etc?

Howmessyistoomessy · 07/03/2020 20:34

How messy does your house have to be before services get involved and support the family involved? Like when does it cross over from untidy to grubby to god we need to get someone in there advising those parents?

Ime absolutely dire, disgusting, stinking, piled high with rubbish with nowhere to walk as the floors are covered. Then they offer for volunteers to come in for one hour a week to play with the child while you clean. Volunteer of course doesn’t turn up for 5/6 visits. Visits from social worker when they turn up is a walk around to say yep, house is filthy, lets have a meeting, then again send in a volunteer to help who again doesn’t turn up and so it goes on and on. An absolute shambles. Poor kids living in filth.

Social services don’t get involved with a family just because the house is messy or untidy. It will be an issue if they are already involved, and if there are indicators of neglect of the children, and if a plan is put in place for the parents to improve the home conditions and they don’t do that within the timescale specified by social services. If the op ended a case for every untidy home they would never have time for anything else.

“If they opened”

When the children are at risk. E.g. Things left lying around that could be dangerous. Dirty conditions that are a risk to health. Unwashed children or clothes

You can look up the "Graded Care Profile" to see descriptions. For housing it would be: In disrepair, dirty, cluttered and unhygienic, adults needs for safety, warmth and entertainment come first. or Dangerous disrepair- but could be repaired easily (exposed nails, live wires). Long term ingrained dirt. (Bad odour/ no clear spaces). Child dangerously exposed or not provided for.

Where they see danger. Tools stored unsafely, pet waste not cleared up. Broken furniture, drug paraphernalia. If there are no other problems, then high levels of disgusting. If they are on the radar for other reasons, then mess gets added to the list of problems.

Do people's shoes stick to the floor when they walk on them? If there anywhere safe and clean to sit down ? Are the cups clean enough to be able to accept a cup of tea?

They'll not be interested in untidy. But they'll be interested in filth. Animal dirt on the floor, broken glass on the floor, no clean dishes, mouldy food everywhere, that sort of thing

Stuff stacked everywhere ie can’t access bed, sink, fridge. Faeces and rotting food everywhere.

I used to work in social services and honestly? It's not about dirty housing. It's much bigger than that. Health, welfare etc. Neglect? What is happening op?

If there’s a used yoghurt lid stuck to the bottom of your kitchen bin. Or dog shit on the lamp shade.

The worst home conditions I have ever come across in my career: tiny home, utter filth, clutter...infact mass hoarding, animal faeces and urine everywhere, children living in complete squalor. I obviously had major concerns about this family, there was a lot going on, not just the home conditions. Social care wouldn't escalate, said it didn't meet the threshold. The following day the rspca came out and removed the dog because low and behold... the home conditions were unsatisfactory. I got the dog removed but couldn't get the bloody kids out. Absolute shambles. I'll never forget the smell of that house and those poor children, I got in my car and sobbed after that visit. I still think about them years on as I moved from that area not long after. I hope they got some support in the end.

Soiled nappies left on the floor

Kids not having beds. Kids not having bedsheets/ clean bedsheets. Smell of urine/ faeces/ vomit/drugs. No clean clothes for dcs. No clear surface in kitchen to prepare food. Dangerous items in reach of young infants eg fag ends on floor. Not being able to open room door due to level of clutter. Lots of bin bags not been put out. Cold and dark due to gas/ electric running out Unsafe- eg broken glass/ windows/ no rail on staircase, needles, loose wires, choking hazards Dirty- animal or human faeces on floor, used sanitary products left out, mouldy food left out fir a long time, dirty nappies not in bin, lots of food/drinks on the floor, walls with lots drawn on esp offensive language, ripped paper etc, any drug paraphernalia No/little furniture or very stained. No space for play Bath / shower filled with stuff so looking unused Toilet and sink as if not been cleaned for a long time Garden not safe/useable Fire hazards

I don’t know the answer to this but just clean your house. Take it one corner at a time. It doesn’t have to be spotless but not fair for any child to live in a dirty house.

Only if it was a health hazard , messy would be fine, dirty is different

Basically if they feel the condition of the living environment is having a negative or detrimental effect on the children. Some of it can show other things too. Inability to cook, prepare, serve, freeze food. Inability to manage keeping on top of laundry/dish washing. Inability to provide secure clean safe beds for the children. Examples of a chaotic lifestyle. They love the word chaotic. Lack of routine or stability. Living in filth. Living in filth which is a human health hazard. No food in fridge/cupboards if children are hungry. No regular mealtimes. Nothing healthy being eaten. Empty cans/bottles of wine/spirits/beer/cider. Walls needing a lick of paint. Stained carpet. A stink. Shit, piss, vomit everywhere. Disarray more or less.

Omigod. I thought my house was a complete filth pit until I read this. My DH has been unwell for a number of years and I work insane hours, so we focus on the absolute basics. Keep the dishes washed, toilet and fridge clean, do the washing vacuum main areas, change the sheets, put the rubbish out. But the house is very untidy, cobwebs, dust and clutter accumulate. Lots of things very old or broken. Cupboard doors hanging off. It's not the best. We don't have a lot of money but we get by. We have managed to bring up a DD who despite our straightened circumstances is doing well at University and looks forward to coming home. We just can't really have people round.

And if you've got birds, cats, dogs - please give them up. If you're not capable of maintaining a clean home for children, you're not fit to have pets. Same goes for rats, guinea pigs and hamsters. For some reason, people struggling seem to add a pet into the mix.

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@hvnc I worked in a niche public-funded-government-scheme for low income families. A lot of people said I should have became a social worker and I would have loved to. But your experience is the reason why I never would. I knew of a similar situation when a family couldn’t rescue a dog due to severe over crowding - 6 people in a tiny two bed flat but yet we’re trying for another baby. The kids were living in complete poverty but ended up buying a pedigree dog to go with their two cats. I wanted to take the kids home, split them between my room and the spare room and I’d happily take the sofa bed. People advised me to become a social worker ‘to change things’.

Have the school reported smelly children or soiled clothes? Why are SS coming to inspect? Do half a room at a time. But it's likely you (or whoever you're posting about) will need help to get on top of it and stay on top of it. Running a home is satisfying if you're firing on all cylinders. If you're not well physically or mentally, or you have addiction issues, or you have taken on more than you can chew (such as a dog when you can't afford to feed the family or a cleaner once a week), then you might need intervention. Nobody wants to be the smelly kids at school.

Just to say abuse happens in the most pristine of homes too.

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Number of antisemitic incidents reached record high in 2023, says B'nai Brith Canada audit

'zionism is not a dirty word or something anyone should be targeted for agreeing with,' trudeau says.

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In its latest annual audit, B'nai Brith Canada reports the number of antisemitic incidents in the country more than doubled from 2022 to 2023 and has now reached a record high.

"If a physical barometer did in fact exist, the reading for 2023 would be off the chart," Richard Robertson, the group's director of policy and research, said in Ottawa on Monday, which is also Holocaust Remembrance Day or Yom HaShoah.

B'nai Brith, a Jewish advocacy organization, said that between Jan. 1, 2023 and Dec. 31, 2023, it logged 5,791 incidents of antisemitism, surpassing the previous record of 2,799 reported in 2021.

Self-reported antisemitic incidents doubled last year, B'nai Brith Canada says

Robertson said he's particularly troubled by the 208 per cent increase in the number of violent incidents, with 77 such incidents recorded last year, compared with 25 in 2022.

"The systemic nature of the antisemitism has forced Canadian Jews to question the continued vitality of the nation's Jewish communities," he said.

Robertson said that recent conflicts in Israel, first in May and June and then beginning on Oct. 7 of last year, "make it abundantly clear: when there is unrest in Israel, Jewish Canadians suffer unduly."

• 'Violent rhetoric from extremist actors' increased since Oct. 7 attack, CSIS says

About 1,200 people were killed in the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on Oct. 7 and about 250 people were taken hostage, according to Israeli figures. More than 34,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed during Israel's military response since then, health officials in the territory say.

Robertson said antisemitic incidents were also driven by the invitation to Parliament of Yaroslav Hunka , a 98-year-old Ukrainian Canadian who served in the Nazi SS Galizien formation during the Second World War.

Hunka was invited to sit in the gallery in September by then-House Speaker Anthony Rota to attend Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's address to Parliament.

At the event, Rota introduced Hunka as a "Ukrainian hero" and a "Canadian hero," prompting a standing ovation in the House of Commons. Rota later stepped down from the Speaker's chair when Hunka's Nazi history came to light.  

AI used to promote antisemitism

B'nai Brith Canada said it recorded a rise in antisemitic incidents coming from across Canadian society and from a wide variety of actors, including figures on the far right and far left and "those acting at the behest of foreign actors."

The incidents the group says it recorded include the firebombing of a synagogue and Jewish community centre in Montreal, eggs being thrown at a Holocaust Memorial Monument in Calgary, a Jewish student being assaulted in an antisemitic attack in B.C.'s Lower Mainland and a rise in antisemitic graffiti in public places involving messages such as "Kill the Jews."

B'nai Brith also said in a media statement that artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been used to "to create antisemitic propaganda and materials."

• Synagogue and Jewish community centre in Montreal suburb of DDO hit by Molotov cocktails
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David Matas, B'nai Brith's chief legal counsel, said his organization would be making submissions to Parliament regarding the forthcoming online harms bill . He said the proposed legislation needs to be strengthened to combat the threat posed by AI.

"Artificial intelligence, like a lot of technologies, is both a benefit and a harm," Matas said Monday. "With each new technology, as we come to appreciate the benefit, we have to put in the safeguards against the harm, and we have not done that yet."

Liberal MP Marco Mendicino, a member of the Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group who attended the press conference, defended the bill but said the fight against antisemitism must start much earlier.

"The online harms legislation does make references to deepfakes, and this is probably the most disconcerting aspect of artificial intelligence," he said.

• Civil liberty, law critics say stiffer hate crime sentences in online harms bill 'troubling'
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Mendicino said it is "equally important, if not more important, to ensure that we are educating young Canadians about the Holocaust and what antisemitism looks like today in the 21 century."

Conservative co-deputy leader Melissa Lantsman, who is also a member of the Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group and was at the event to express her party's support, dismissed the online harms legislation as a solution.

"We are not going to solve this by criminalizing speech, particularly having a government decide what you can say and see on the internet," she said.

"Where the focus needs to be after this report must be in making sure that the physical security of institutions, of synagogues, of schools, of businesses of people in the streets who find themselves in the middle of vile, hateful demonstrations, are kept safe."

'It's not right' that Jewish people feel unsafe in Canada, PM says

Speaking at the National Holocaust Monument in Ottawa at an event to mark Yom HaShaoh, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel there has been a "disturbing increase in antisemitism to a scale we have not witnessed for generations."

"Windows of synagogues have been broken and shot at, Jewish stores vandalized, all of these acts, open wounds of painful chapters in our collective history," he said. 

Trudeau said that those continuing to deny the Holocaust or the Oct. 7 attacks are leaving Jewish Canadians feeling "isolated and unsafe in their communities."

"In a country like Canada, it should be and it must be safe to declare oneself a Zionist. Jewish or not, Zionism is not a dirty word or something anyone should be targeted for agreeing with," he said. 

"It is the belief, at its simplest, that Jewish people, like all peoples, have the right to determine their own future."

Poilievre says antisemitism is rising as memories of Holocaust fade

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who also attended the Ottawa event, said the memory of the Holocaust has started to fade and antisemitic attitudes have again started to gain favour.

"We see at university campuses, the hateful anti-Jewish rhetoric directed at innocent students. We see firebombings of Canadian synagogues; something we never would have imagined a short time ago," Poilievre said. 

He said it's the responsibility of every Canadian to support the rights of Jewish people to proudly display their culture, history and religion.

"In the last year, antisemitic attacks are up over 100 per cent," he said. "That means the Jewish people are being doubly victimized, once with the bloodshed they witnessed in their homeland of Israel, and again on the streets and in their synagogues."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior writer

Peter Zimonjic is a senior writer for CBC News. He has worked as a reporter and columnist in London, England, for the Daily Mail, Sunday Times and Daily Telegraph and in Canada for Sun Media and the Ottawa Citizen. He is the author of Into The Darkness: An Account of 7/7, published by Random House.

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

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May 10, 2024

Governor Newsom Unveils Revised State Budget, Prioritizing Balanced Solutions for a Leaner, More Efficient Government

Para leer este comunicado en español, haga clic aquí .

The Budget Proposal — Covering Two Years — Cuts Spending, Makes Government Leaner, and Preserves Core Services Without New Taxes on Hardworking Californians

Watch Governor Newsom’s May Revise presentation here

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The Governor’s revised budget proposal closes both this year’s remaining $27.6 billion budget shortfall and next year’s projected $28.4 billion deficit while preserving many key services that Californians rely on — including education, housing, health care, and food assistance.

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today released a May Revision proposal for the 2024-25 fiscal year that ensures the budget is balanced over the next two fiscal years by tightening the state’s belt and stabilizing spending following the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic, all while preserving key ongoing investments.

Under the Governor’s proposal, the state is projected to achieve a positive operating reserve balance not only in this budget year but also in the next. This “budget year, plus one” proposal is designed to bring longer-term stability to state finances without delay and create an operating surplus in the 2025-26 budget year.

In the years leading up to this May Revision, the Newsom Administration recognized the threats of an uncertain stock market and federal tax deadline delays – setting aside $38 billion in reserves that could be utilized for shortfalls. That has put California in a strong position to maintain fiscal stability.

Even when revenues were booming, we were preparing for possible downturns by investing in reserves and paying down debts – that’s put us in a position to close budget gaps while protecting core services that Californians depend on. Without raising taxes on Californians, we’re delivering a balanced budget over two years that continues the progress we’ve fought so hard to achieve, from getting folks off the streets to addressing the climate crisis to keeping our communities safe.

Governor Gavin Newsom

Below are the key takeaways from Governor Newsom’s proposed budget:

A BALANCED BUDGET OVER TWO YEARS. The Governor is solving two years of budget problems in a single budget, tightening the state’s belt to get the budget back to normal after the tumultuous years of the COVID-19 pandemic. By addressing the shortfall for this budget year — and next year — the Governor is eliminating the 2024-25 deficit and eliminating a projected deficit for the 2025-26 budget year that is $27.6 billion (after taking an early budget action) and $28.4 billion respectively.

CUTTING SPENDING, MAKING GOVERNMENT LEANER. Governor Newsom’s revised balanced state budget cuts one-time spending by $19.1 billion and ongoing spending by $13.7 billion through 2025-26. This includes a nearly 8% cut to state operations and a targeted elimination of 10,000 unfilled state positions, improving government efficiency and reducing non-essential spending — without raising taxes on individuals or proposing state worker furloughs. The budget makes California government more efficient, leaner, and modern — saving costs by streamlining procurement, cutting bureaucratic red tape, and reducing redundancies.

PRESERVING CORE SERVICES & SAFETY NETS. The budget maintains service levels for key housing, food, health care, and other assistance programs that Californians rely on while addressing the deficit by pausing the expansion of certain programs and decreasing numerous recent one-time and ongoing investments.

NO NEW TAXES & MORE RAINY DAY SAVINGS. Governor Newsom is balancing the budget by getting state spending under control — cutting costs, not proposing new taxes on hardworking Californians and small businesses — and reducing the reliance on the state’s “Rainy Day” reserves this year.

HOW WE GOT HERE: California’s budget shortfall is rooted in two separate but related developments over the past two years.

• First, the state’s revenue, heavily reliant on personal income taxes including capital gains, surged in 2021 due to a robust stock market but plummeted in 2022 following a market downturn. While the market bounced back by late 2023, the state continued to collect less tax revenue than projected in part due to something called “capital loss carryover,” which allows losses from previous years to reduce how much an individual is taxed.
• Second, the IRS extended the tax filing deadline for most California taxpayers in 2023 following severe winter storms, delaying the revelation of reduced tax receipts. When these receipts were able to eventually be processed, they were 22% below expectations. Without the filing delay, the revenue drop would have been incorporated into last year’s budget and the shortfall this year would be significantly smaller.

CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMY REMAINS STRONG: The Governor’s revised balanced budget sets the state up for continued economic success. California’s economy remains the 5th largest economy in the world and for the first time in years, the state’s population is increasing and tourism spending recently experienced a record high. California is #1 in the nation for new business starts , #1 for access to venture capital funding , and the #1 state for manufacturing , high-tech , and agriculture .

Additional details on the May Revise proposal can be found in this fact sheet and at www.ebudget.ca.gov .

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ISS Tells Gildan Investors to Back Browning, Reinstate Fired CEO

By Crystal Tse and Derek Decloet

Gildan Activewear Inc. shareholders should vote for all eight board nominees put forward by activist investor Browning West LP , including the chief executive officer who was fired by the board last year, proxy advisory firm Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. said.

It’s a big victory for Browning West, which has a 5% stake in Gildan and has been waging a monthslong campaign to turf the current board and bring back Glenn Chamandy as CEO. He was ousted in December after an internal battle over strategy and succession.

“The dissident has presented a compelling case to reverse the change implemented by ...

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