DSS launches crisis counseling, outreach program
The Department of Social Services (DSS) launched 605 Strong, a new crisis counseling program, dedicated to helping people struggling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.


Families set to receive food assistance due to COVID-19
The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) in collaboration with the Department of Education will be providing additional assistance with food costs to families who lost access to free or reduced-price school meals in response to COVID-19 related school closures.


Increased SNAP benefits to continue
Increased Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will continue for some South Dakota families to help address food costs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Social Services (DSS) announced today.


South Dakota seeking to join online SNAP pilot
South Dakotans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may have the option of buying groceries online in the future, the Department of Social Services announced today.


Governor recognizes service of foster families
Foster families play an important role in caring for children in communities across South Dakota and Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Foster Parent Appreciation and Awareness Month to recognize their selfless dedication.


Funding available to DSS-regulated child care programs
The Department of Social Services (DSS) will use newly received federal funding to help support child care programs and the families they serve. The funding will help with the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.


DSS: Child support payments can be made online
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is encouraging parents to go online to deal with child support obligations as staff are working remotely or behind closed doors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.


DSS secures funding for COVID-19 mental health and substance use needs
The Department of Social Services (DSS) will receive $2 million from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to assist South Dakotans dealing with mental health issues and substance use disorders due to the COVID-19 pandemic.


SNAP benefits could go up for some
South Dakotans who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits could receive extra help to purchase food, the Department of Social Services announced today.


DSS offers help to families in need
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought uncertainty to individuals and families across South Dakota including financial hardships and the Department of Social Services (DSS) reminds the public it has programs to help.