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DSS Divisions
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is organized into functional divisions (as prescribed in Federal and State statutes), which are responsible for specific assistance programs.
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Adult Services
Adult Services are composed of different programs designed to serve and protect a diverse adult population, 18 years of age or older, either physically or mentally disabled or believed to be at risk or in immediate danger or harm.
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Building Independence for the Long Term (BILT)
The BILT Program assists applicants/recipients of temporary assistance who present with significant barriers in achieving and maintaining independence.
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Child Protective Services
Child Protective Services responds to hotline reports of alleged child abuse or maltreatment.
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Child Support Enforcement Unit
The Child Support Enforcement Unit is a federally mandated program that serves families by locating absent parents, assisting in establishing paternity, obtaining court orders for child support and medical support, and enforcing monetary and medical court orders.
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Employment Unit
It is the responsibility of this unit to assign individuals to work or training activities and to provide support services in order to gain or maintain employment.
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Foster Care / Adoption Services
Foster Care/Adoption Services' primary function is to provide safety and permanency for children who have been removed from their homes.
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Fraud & Legal Affairs Unit
The Fraud and Legal Affairs Unit investigates all instances of possible fraud as it relates to any programs under the Department of Social Services.
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Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
HEAP provides assistance with the cost of heating (in winter) or cooling (in summer) to low-income households.
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Medicaid
The Medicaid division is responsible for determining eligibility for all Medical Assistance Programs not offered by the NY State Office of Health Insurance Programs.
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Non-Parent Caregivers (NPC) (PDF)
Non-parent caregivers, who are caring for children without a parent living in their home, may be eligible for Temporary Assistance.
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Preventive Services
Preventive Services help parents and caregivers provide an environment where children can thrive.
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP is responsible for determining eligibility for the federally mandated supplemental nutrition program.
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Temporary Assistance
Temporary Assistance is a cash assistance program based on income and resources.