What is the role of social services departments?
Georgia Social Services
The state’s social services department is responsible for planning, managing, and evaluating a statewide program of various services and support programs, including mental health programs for children and adults, community programs, crisis services, and residential treatment facilities. Social services can offer a wide range of services to kids and their parents, typically in the comfort of their own home and under the direction of a social worker, and have a legal commitment to protect and advance the welfare of vulnerable kids and adults.
Georgia’s DHS
In Georgia, social services are run by the Georgia Department of Human Services. The department offers a variety of services aimed at fostering self-sufficiency, safety, and well-being for all Georgians.
Mission Statement
The Georgia DHS was formed in July 2009 as part of the reorganization of the former Georgia Department of Human Resources, which had previously served state residents since 1972.
Serving more than 2 million Georgians, DHS offers a variety of services that safeguard and improve the lives of the state's most vulnerable citizens. With an annual budget of $1.89 billion for State Fiscal Year 2021, the department will employ about 8,912 individuals. Aging Services, Child Support Services, and Family & Children Services are the three divisions of the DHS.
Core Values
● Make resources accessible to provide support and empower Georgian residents and their families.
● Deliver services in a professional manner.
● Treat all clients with dignity and respect.
● Aligning resources across the agency to manage business operations effectively and efficiently.
● Promote accountability, transparency, and quality in all services available.
Who to Contact
You can contact the Georgia DHS in a variety of ways, whether you have a question about your Food Stamps application or need to address a problem with a child support order. The contact information for DHS is:
Phone - 404-651-6316
Email - CustomerServiceDHS@dhs.ga.gov
Mailing Address:
2 Peachtree St NW
29th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30303
If you need to reach a specific agency run by the DHS, you’ll want to contact them specifically, either by phone, email or online request ticket.
To reach the Division of Aging Services, you can call 1-866-55-AGING (+1 866-552-4464). This agency handles Adult Protective Services, Community Care Services, Elder Rights & Advocacy, GeorgiaCares SHIP, Home & Community Services, and more.
To reach the division of Family & Children Services, call 404-657-3433
Or email customer_services_dfcs@dhs.ga.gov. If you have questions regarding public assistance, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or Medicaid, call 877-423-4746.
Programs Under Sub-Agencies
If you’re in need of public assistance or supportive services, such as child support, the Georgia DHS is who you’ll contact for help. However, there are multiple agencies that operate under the DHS and run separate programs. For example, The Division of Aging Services is in charge of the Senior Community Service Employee Program designed to help low-income seniors obtain part-time employment. The Division of Family & Children Services is also responsible for foster care and adoption programs. Although these are separate agencies, they’re all run by the Georgia Department of Human Services. If you need help or you’re unsure of the type of assistance you need, contact the general line at 404-651-6316.