Suffolk County Department of Social Services (DSS) is a government agency dedicated to supporting the well-being and self-sufficiency of individuals and families throughout Suffolk County, New York. As a key arm of the county government, the department provides critical safety net programs that serve children, adults, seniors, and families facing economic hardship. DSS administers a wide range of public assistance programs, including Temporary Assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and Child Support Enforcement. It also plays a crucial role in protecting vulnerable children and adults through Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services. The department works closely with community organizations and state-level agencies to ensure eligible residents receive the support they need in times of crisis. A priority for DSS is to connect individuals not only to immediate assistance but also to long-term resources that promote stability and independence. They continually adapt services to meet evolving community needs, including comprehensive programs for housing assistance and foster care. Committed to equity and respect, DSS ensures clients are treated with dignity while receiving timely and effective services.

Key Services:

– Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
– SNAP (food assistance) eligibility and benefits administration
– Medicaid application processing and eligibility services
– Child Protective Services (CPS)
– Adult Protective Services (APS)
– Child Support Services and enforcement
– Emergency housing and homelessness prevention programs
– Foster care and adoption services
– Employment support and training programs
– Outreach and referrals to community resources