Parenting can be complicated. For many parents, understanding Child Support may add an additional and overwhelming challenge to the many responsibilities of raising a child. The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is committed to helping Tennesseans understand Child Support options available to their family and are here to ensure children have the right resources to grow and be well. To ease the burden on Tennessee parents, guardians, and others involved in Child Support, the department hosts an online forum each month to offer information and answer general and case-specific questions about Child Support services.
Parents and Partners Connect is a free, virtual meet up hosted by Child Support experts at TDHS. These online events make it easy for Tennesseans to get the information they need from the comfort of their home or workspace without visiting a TDHS office.
How Parents and Partners Connect Works
Parents and Partners Connect, is open and free to all Tennessee parents and guardians. Employers or HR staff who are involved in Child Support payments are also welcome to register and attend. Meetings are scheduled at midday or late afternoon, depending on the month. Each session lasts about an hour and offers an opportunity for participants to receive guidance on important topics that include:
- Finding a child's other parent to establish Child Support
- Setting up enforcing Child Support orders
- Establishing paternity
- Ensuring medical support for children
- Collecting and distributing payments
While each meeting focuses on a special topic, general questions are always welcome. If a participant has a case specific concern or is uncomfortable asking a question in the presence of other attendees, participants have the option to speak privately with a Child Support professional in a virtual “break out room” during the session.
How to Join the Next Parents and Partners Connect
Although Parents and Partners Connect is offered free of charge, registration is required.
For the latest schedule and registration details, visit the TDHS website or use one of the links below:
Participants can e-mail ChildSupport.CustomerService.DHS@tn.gov if they have an issue with the registration process or need assistance.
TDHS is Committed to Helping Tennessee Families Find Child Support Resources
Child Support is an essential step for families that helps ensure children receive the financial and medical support they need to grow and be well and the TDHS Child Support Team is here to help Tennessee families navigate the Child Support system more effectively. Parents and Partners Connect is one of many resources available through TDHS. For Parents who need additional assistance outside of the virtual event can reach out to, TDHS directly by contacting or visiting the Child Support office serving their county.