Administration on Children, Youth and FamiliesFrom the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, ACYF oversees major federal programs that support: 1) Social services that promote the positive growth and development of children, youth and their families, 2) Protective services and shelter for children and youth in at-risk situations & 3) Adoption for children with special needs. These programs provide financial assistance to states, community-based organizations, and academic institutions to provide services, carry out research and demonstration activities, and manage training, technical assistance and information dissemination.