The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced January Contreras, assistant secretary for the Administration for Children and Families, will be leaving her position with the department in August.
During her tenure, Contreras improved family access to childcare and education, supported increased pay for childcare and early learning workforce and set up an anti-trafficking training initiative for child welfare agencies, according to a June 23 HHS news release.
“She came to ACF with a deep commitment to making government work for people in their toughest moments, and she leaves a legacy of accomplishments in doing just that,” HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said in the release. “Her life-long commitment to championing children and families has measurably advanced the interests and well-being of our nation. We are deeply grateful for her service."
Contreras also boosted support for grandparents and familial caregivers and improved services for immigrants across the country, from children to adults, and families fleeing violence in their home countries, the release reported. Relying on the Family First Prevention Services Act, Contreras managed plans to expand resources for caregivers, peers and parents to boost children’s mental health.
The release also highlighted Contreras’ efforts to keep women, children and youth safe while also working to increase the health and wellbeing of children and families. Under her watch, the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services was formed to manage services for the victims of domestic violence.
Contreras also targeted investments in efforts targeting human trafficking and domestic abuse in communities nationwide, and she initiated educational and regulatory efforts to ensure the safety of LGBTQ+ children and parents, according to the release.
As part of her plans ensure collaboration and coordination, Contreras visited Tribal communities nationwide, meeting with leaders, securing finances and promoting legislative efforts to expand Tribal leadership’s self-determination on a range of areas, from Head Start to child support and welfare, the release reported.
