The mission of the Department of Social Services is to adequately and efficiently assess, plan for and provide appropriate services to families and individuals in need. The Agency is comprised of several major divisions. Each division has unique job duties, however, all divisions interact with each other in some manner or another. Emergencies are handled on a daily basis. TA clients receive money for basic living expenses, food stamps and medical coverage.
Eligibility is based on the income and resources of the family.
Family Assistance provides money to families with children and Safety Net Assistance provides money for basic living expenses for single adults and childless couples. The primary objectives include the location of absent parents, establishment of paternity and support on behalf of all children in receipt of Temporary Assistance, Medical Assistance, and Foster Care. Enforcement of the support orders requires a multifaceted system involving state and local government agencies, court systems, employers, and the public. Cases undergo continuous investigation to ensure the timely collection of needed support money. The program is designed to be a supplement to a household food budget in order to provide a nutritious diet.