CWS-CARES Public Library
On the Path to Go-Live: CWS-CARES Readiness Update
In preparation for CWS-CARES Go-Live in October 2026, we are introducing a new key readiness activity: the Production Simulation (Prod Sim) environment. Pending federal approval, counties will gain access to Prod Sim in May 2026, which will allow users to practice and test system functionality in a digital environment mirroring CWS-CARES Version 1 (CARES V1).
The CWS-CARES Service Desk will launch around the same time to manage incidents and escalations, provide business continuity, and offer general support. The project will also hold trainings before and during Prod Sim to support staff readiness as we move toward CWS-CARES Go-Live.
To further strengthen readiness efforts, CWS-CARES County Advisory Committees (CACs) focused on Prod Sim, Service Desk, and Training were introduced in February 2026 to provide a dedicated forum for collaboration. CACs, referred to as "workgroups" in previous communications, are expected to continue through Go-Live alongside existing project workgroups. The purpose of the CACs is to enhance overall county readiness, provide feedback for operational support, and promote collaboration.
Thank you to all counties who have volunteered to participate in the County Advisory Committees! Your engagement, insights, and partnership directly shape a smoother, more successful transition to CWS-CARES.
Originally published in the CWS-CARES Explorer.
Key Benefits of Production Simulation:
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Open to all 58 Counties, Tribes with Title IV-E Agreements, and State Partners starting May 2026
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Populated with converted data from CWS/CMS, CARES-Live, and RFA Greenfield
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Includes full interfaces, analytics, and "real-world" referral/case management
The CWS-CARES Service Desk will launch around the same time to manage incidents and escalations, provide business continuity, and offer general support. The project will also hold trainings before and during Prod Sim to support staff readiness as we move toward CWS-CARES Go-Live.
To further strengthen readiness efforts, CWS-CARES County Advisory Committees (CACs) focused on Prod Sim, Service Desk, and Training were introduced in February 2026 to provide a dedicated forum for collaboration. CACs, referred to as "workgroups" in previous communications, are expected to continue through Go-Live alongside existing project workgroups. The purpose of the CACs is to enhance overall county readiness, provide feedback for operational support, and promote collaboration.
Thank you to all counties who have volunteered to participate in the County Advisory Committees! Your engagement, insights, and partnership directly shape a smoother, more successful transition to CWS-CARES.
Originally published in the CWS-CARES Explorer.