The Schenectady County Department of Social Services (DSS) is a vital public agency dedicated to promoting the health, safety, and economic well-being of individuals and families across Schenectady County, New York. As part of the county’s broader human services mission, DSS provides a wide array of programs to support residents through temporary hardships and long-term life challenges. These services include financial assistance, child welfare support, foster care facilitation, and adult protective services, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the protection and resources they need.

The department is deeply committed to children’s safety and family stability, offering preventive services and interventions that aim to keep families together whenever possible. In addition to child and adult services, DSS plays a key role in administering SNAP benefits, Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance programs, helping individuals meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical care. The agency also works in collaboration with schools, law enforcement, and non-profits to extend its community impact and streamline supportive services.

What sets Schenectady County DSS apart is its emphasis on both short-term crisis response and long-term solutions for self-sufficiency. Culturally responsive and inclusive, this department plays an integral role in fostering a safe and healthy community countywide.

Key Services:

– Temporary Assistance (TA) for eligible individuals and families
– Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administration
– Medicaid and healthcare-related support services
– Child Protective and Preventive Services
– Foster care and adoption coordination
– Adult Protective Services for vulnerable populations
– Child support enforcement and case management
– Emergency housing and shelter support
– Employment and training referral services
– Coordination with community partners to improve service delivery