During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we’re highlighting the agencies that work tirelessly to protect and support children across Travis County—because every child deserves a safe home and a chance to heal. Among these vital partners is the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
DFPS plays a critical role in child abuse investigations, often serving as the first point of contact when there’s concern for a child’s safety. Caseworkers like Erika Senger and Isabel Hoffman step in to assess families in crisis, offer support, and connect them to services that can change lives.
“When a child makes an outcry of abuse or neglect, we contact the Center for Child Protection to schedule a forensic interview,” Senger said. “From there, the Center becomes a true partner, helping stabilize the family through therapy, medical care, and ongoing support.”
According to Hoffman, the Center also equips caregivers with education and prevention tools. “Parents leave with a better understanding of how to create a safe, open environment at home. That can make all the difference in a child’s future.”
The work is difficult, but both caseworkers agree—it’s also deeply rewarding.
Knowing that I’m helping families in crisis and making a positive impact in the community is what keeps me going Erika Senge , Caseworker, Department of Family and Protective Services
I’ve always felt called to defend the defenseless. Every child deserves to be heard, protected, and believed. Isabel Hoffman , Caseworker, Department of Family and Protective Services
Both emphasized the importance of community responsibility: If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the CPS hotline or make a report online at the DFPS website. Acting quickly can change a child’s life.
We’re grateful to DFPS for their tireless commitment to child safety and their partnership on our Child Protection Team.
Thank you, DFPS, for standing with us.
Because every child deserves a safe home.
Erika Senger
Insights from Erika Senger
Q: How does your team collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
A: We partner with the Center whenever a child makes an outcry of abuse or neglect. We reach out to schedule a forensic interview, and once that’s completed, the Center continues supporting both me and the family. They help connect the family to services like individual or family therapy, or medical support—whatever is needed to help stabilize and support the family dynamic.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about child abuse investigations?
A: I wish more people realized how difficult it is to deal with child abuse and neglect. When a case is first assigned, it can feel really overwhelming. But knowing you can step in and serve as an outside source of help—someone who can guide a family toward solutions and connect them to real support—makes the work meaningful.
Q: What keeps you motivated to do this important work?
A: Just knowing I’m making a positive impact in the community. I feel like I have a purpose in this role, and that the work I do is truly beneficial. It’s rewarding to be in a position where I can support families in crisis and help bring about positive change.
Q: What should someone do if they suspect a child is being abused?
A: I would recommend calling the Child Abuse Hotline, 1-800-252-5400. You can also submit a report online through the DFPS website. If you believe a child is in danger, it’s so important to report it urgently and take action.
Get to Know Erika Senger
Erika Senger is a Child Protective Investigator with the Department of Family and Protective Services, dedicated to keeping children safe. For the past two years, she has worked in Alternative Response, supporting families and ensuring the well-being of children in the community.
She believes in resilience, embracing Vince Lombardi’s words: “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”
Erika is honored to take part in Child Abuse Prevention Month, reminding everyone that protecting children is a shared responsibility.
Isabel Hoffmann
Q&A
How does your agency collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
When my families are referred to the Center, the staff here do an amazing job of making both the children and their parents feel safe and comfortable enough to share their stories. From there, the Center connects them to services tailored to their needs—like individual or family therapy. One of the most impactful things I’ve seen is the education and prevention training the Center provides. It helps parents understand how to create a safe home environment and build open communication with their kids.
What keeps you motivated to do this challenging but vital work?
I have a strong desire to defend the defenseless. Knowing that my work has a direct and positive impact on the lives of children and families is incredibly rewarding. That’s what keeps me going.
What should someone do if they suspect a child is being abused?
Act immediately—never wait. If you suspect abuse or neglect, call the CPS hotline right away to make a report. The sooner we can get involved, the sooner we can help protect that child and support their family.
Isabel Hoffmann – Bio
Isabel Hoffmann has been an Investigator with the Department of Family Protective Services for more than two years, earning the respect of her peers through her strong work ethic, depth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment to child safety. Known for her ability to build trust with families and help guide them toward timely resolution, Isabel has become a go-to resource for her team. Even before stepping into a mentorship role, she played a key part in training new caseworkers and supporting colleagues across the department. Her professionalism, accountability, and collaborative spirit make her a valued member of the team.
