Child Welfare Information GatewayFamilies are central to child safety, permanency, and well-being, and all families need support. For families with limited resources, or those facing additional challenges, the need for assistance is even greater. This may include family support services, which refers to a range of supportive services for families with children, or family preservation services, which are more intensive services intended to preserve families at risk of disruption. Family support and family preservation services are part of a continuum of services that build upon the principles of family-centered practice with the goal of supporting and strengthening families. These principles include focusing on families' strengths, engaging families in planning and decision-making, and leveraging community-based services and supports on behalf of families.