News

Governor Henry McMaster signs legislation to establish a Kinship Guardianship Program in South Carolina

November 9, 2023- On Thursday, Governor Henry McMaster was joined by South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) Director Michael Leach, members of the General Assembly, non-profit leaders, and kinship caregivers for a ceremonial bill signing of S.380, a bill that allows DSS to create a Kinship Guardianship Program (KinGAP).

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National Adoption Month In South Carolina Highlights Needs for Teens, Sibling Groups via Public Adoption

November 2, 2023 - Columbia, S.C. – The month of November is recognized as National Adoption Month in South Carolina. In addition, the state is recognizing Monday, November 20th as Adoption Day. Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty has authorized terms of Family Court for the finalization of public adoptions in Greenville, Sumter, Charleston, and Horry Counties on Adoption Day.

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DSS Becomes First State Agency Certified in Sensory Inclusiveness

October 31st, 2023- The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is now a certified sensory inclusive agency through training provided by KultureCity, a national non-profit drawing attention to invisible conditions. Thanks to a new partnership with KultureCity and their Sensory Inclusion Training Program, DSS professionals statewide are now able to better assist these South Carolinians through training and hands on aids to reduce anxiety while working with DSS.

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DSS Announces New Marion County Director

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) would like to announce Ms. Melissa Alexander as the new Marion County DSS Director as of Monday, October 2nd.

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SC DSS Honors October Employees of the Month

October 19, 2023 -- The South Carolina Department of Social Services Employee of the Month program recognizes staff whose work exemplifies our core principles: Competence, Courage and Compassion.

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DSS Announces New Darlington County Director

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) would like to announce Ms. Adrienne Wingate as the new Darlington County DSS Director as of Monday, October 2nd.

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Child Welfare Services Transformation

Best Outcomes for Children and Families

Do you have a complaint regarding services being provided to a child by a state agency? Please submit your complaint by phone (1-800-206-1957) or an electronic submission form here with the South Carolina Department of Children's Advocacy..