Schoharie County Department of Social Services (DSS) is a public agency dedicated to supporting the well-being and self-sufficiency of individuals and families across Schoharie County, New York. Operating under the broader guidance of New York State’s social services framework, the department provides a diverse range of essential programs and services designed to safeguard vulnerable populations, alleviate poverty, and promote stability within the community. Key services include public assistance, child welfare support, foster care and adoption coordination, and services for adults and seniors facing abuse or neglect. The department also processes applications for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and Medicaid, ensuring access to food and healthcare for eligible residents.

A cornerstone of DSS’s approach is collaboration—with community organizations, healthcare providers, and schools—to deliver holistic solutions tailored to each client’s needs. The agency plays a vital role in emergency response situations, such as housing placement for displaced individuals and families. Through its efforts, the Schoharie County DSS fosters a healthier, more inclusive community by advocating for those facing hardship, while aligning resources to drive long-term empowerment.

Key Services:

– Financial assistance programs (Temporary Assistance, Safety Net)
– Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment
– Medicaid and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
– Child protective services
– Foster care and adoption services
– Adult protective services for seniors and at-risk adults
– Child support enforcement
– Homelessness prevention and emergency housing placement