May is Foster Care Awareness Month

Real families. Real stories. Real impact.

Explore how you can make a difference.

I'm looking for...

Top Searched Topics: Child Support, SNAP, Food Stamps, CPS

Connect to Help Now

If you or someone you know needs help right away, use the contacts below to get connected to support.

Find Your Local Department

Find the local department that serves your area and its contact info.

Search by city, county or ZIP code
Find your local department

2-1-1 Virginia

Receive free, confidential support 24/7

Get Help

Phone: 2-1-1 or Text CONNECT to 247211

Adult Protective Services Hotline

Report concerns about the safety or well-being of an older adult 24/7

Phone: (888) 832-3858

Need TTY/TDD support?

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call (800) 828-1120 or dial 711 for relay services.

Trending Topics

Smiling Family wading in a pool

Water Safety

May is National Water Safety Month. We encourage you to watch children closely whenever they are near water. Get water safety tips for summer and year-round.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP

SNAP

The SNAP food restriction waiver has been delayed until Oct. 1, 2026. No changes have been made to benefit use for sweetened beverages

Foster Care

In recognition of Foster Care Awareness Month this May, we’re highlighting information and resources for those interested in becoming resource parents.

Featured News Purple Star

Father and child in swimming pool

Protect Children From Drownings: Simple Water Safety Tips

The number of children drowning or nearly drowning in Virginia is on the rise. Supervision should be the top priority whenever children are near water.

EBT card being used at terminal

Protect Yourself from EBT Fraud

Posted 04/16/2026
Staff from Patrick County DSS gather outside in celebration of Wear Blue Day.

Local Departments Recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month

Posted 04/15/2026
A caring mother puts her child to sleep in a safe crib free of any items like toys or pillows.

Safe Sleep Practices: Keeping Infants Safe

Posted 04/02/2026
More News

Who We Are

The Virginia Department of Social Services is a network of 120 local departments. We serve more than 2 million Virginians each year with services that promote safety, independence, and well-being.

We provide vital programs designed to meet people where they are and help them build what's next.

2 Million+ Virginians served each year
120 local departments statewide
50+ Programs and services
All 134 Virginia localities served
Young boy in blue coat with arms outstretched
People Helping People

This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Please review our web policy for information regarding the data we collect and how we ensure it remains secure.