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NEWS RELEASE
Department of Social Services
700 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD57501-2291 Phone: 605-773-3165 Web: http://dss.sd.gov
CONTACT: Tarah Jahnig at 605-773-3165
Department of Social Services moving to new Aberdeen location
All DSS programs, services in Aberdeen to operate from new location beginning May 18
PIERRE, S.D. –The Department of Social Services’ office in Aberdeen will move to a new location next week. All DSS divisions, which currently operate from three separate locations, will be housed in the new building at 3401 10th Avenue SE, just west of Wal-Mart.
“Bringing all of our programs together in one location will give customers greater access to a variety of services,” said Deb Bowman, Secretary of the Department. “The new building will also allow the Department to better utilize and conserve our resources.”
The process to secure a new office location began in June 2008, when the Department advertised for bids and reviewed multiple proposals before selecting the plan deemed most cost-effective and in the best location.
The Department will lease the new building, which features an enhanced reception area for customers, a larger parking lot, and individual interview rooms to allow customers to meet privately with Department staff. The building is also ADA compliant to allow easier access for individuals with disabilities.
In addition, the new building is more energy efficient, with geothermal floor heating and automatic light censors, which will reduce operational costs. The Department also utilized existing surplus to furnish the building.
Staff will move operations for Adult Services and Aging, Child Care Services, Child Protection Services, Child Support and Economic Assistance beginning May 16, with service from the new building set to begin on Monday, May 18. While the Department is working to ensure a smooth transition, a slight interruption in services may be possible.
DSS will no longer provide services from the current locations on Washington and Roosevelt Streets as of May 18. Office phone numbers will remain the same.
Aberdeen-residents with questions about the move or the new location can contact the Department of Social Services at 1-866-239-2610. Members of the media should contact the Communications Director at 605-773-3165 for more information.
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