Air conditioning assistance available in South Dakota
As temperatures in South Dakota rise with the start of summer, the Department of Social Services (DSS) is reminding the public of an important initiative.


Additional child care funding available to providers
Governor Kristi Noem is making available additional grants to assist child care providers licensed and registered with the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS).


Factoring In Our Mental Health: Mental Health Memo for June
As we grow, there are circumstances that can either help or hurt our mental health. These are called protective factors and risk factors.


Celebrating graduation of youth in foster care and adopted youth
May is a time of celebration for many families across South Dakota as students graduate from high school. For some that means a diploma, for others a GED, but either way it means crossing a finish line that’s more than a decade in the making.


Mental health help available for storm victims
Help is available for individuals and families dealing with the stress and uncertainty that follows natural disasters like last night’s storms across eastern South Dakota.


May is Foster Parent Appreciation Month
Governor Kristi Noem has named May as Foster Parent Appreciation Month to thank those families that have stepped forward to care for South Dakota children.


Governor Noem makes May 8-14 Prevention Week in South Dakota
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May 8-14, as Prevention Week in South Dakota to help promote substance use prevention and positive mental health in the state.


Governor Noem calls for raising mental health awareness
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month in South Dakota. It is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and promote the resources available to help.


Five Tips for Success in College: Mental Health Memo for May
Have you ever reflected on where you are in life and thought “is this what I am supposed to be doing” or “do I feel fulfilled with my career choice”?


Foster families provide safety and support for children in turmoil
Foster families provide safety, support, and hope for children in turmoil.


Prescription Take-Back Day is Saturday April 30
South Dakotans are encouraged to safely dispose of unwanted prescription drugs during the next Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 30.


Stress less this Spring
Spring is a wonderful time of year when we emerge from our sleepy winter homes and prepare for a summer of activity and adventure. This time of year can also bring stress as family and school activities reach a fever pitch and businesses prepare for busier days.


Funding available for furnace repair or replacement
A program helping South Dakotans who own their home afford the repair or replacement of their furnace has more funding available and eligible low-income households in need are encouraged to apply.


Governor Noem, DSS developing additional regional mental health crisis facilities across state
Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Social Services (DSS) are working to expand the number of regional behavioral health facilities across the state to create a robust and comprehensive crisis service delivery model.


Governor Noem calls for prevention of child abuse, neglect
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month to help bring an end to abuse and neglect in South Dakota.


April Mental Health Memo: Celebrating National Pet Day
Animals are a simple pleasure that bring joy to many people almost immediately upon hearing or seeing them.