South Carolina Department of Social Services

Deadline Approaching to Redeem Vouchers for Senior Farmers’ Market Program

September 18, 2023 – The deadline to redeem vouchers for the 2023 Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is quickly approaching. Participants who received vouchers for the 2023 season have until October 15th to redeem the vouchers as they do not carry over from year to year. In June, $50 worth of vouchers were issued to eligible participants in the form five checks worth $10 each to use at participating authorized locations.

DSS Charges Former Horry Co. Child Care Operator with Forgery, Breach of Trust

Columbia, SC- After an investigation by Special Agents from the South Carolina Department of Social Services – Office of Inspector General, Rodney Wayne Cox of Conway was arrested on the following charges:

New Grant Provides Aid in Strengthening South Carolina Families

September 13, 2023- The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) recently received a grant from the BlueCross® BlueShield® of South Carolina Foundation to fund the development and implementation of a Peer Parent Mentoring program. Parent Partners will mentor eligible families by providing social support, offering guidance on how to navigate the process of reunification, and working with social workers and other professionals to ensure the family is getting needed resources. SCDSS will utilize the Iowa Parent Partner Approach model, which is rated as a “Promising” practice on the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse. The Iowa Parent Partner Approach is rated as a promising practice because at least one study achieved a rating of moderate or high on study design and execution and demonstrated a favorable effect on the target outcomes of child permanency and reunification.

SCDSS Showcases Range of Services in New PSA Campaign

September 11, 2023- The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) is rolling out a series of new public service announcements to educate South Carolinians on the wide range of services the agency offers. The :30 spots are currently running on multiple platforms statewide, including cable and broadcast television, social media, and streaming platforms.

Infant Safely Surrendered in Pee Dee Under Safe Haven Act

September 8, 2023- Healthcare professionals at McLeod Regional Medical Center recently accepted an infant surrendered under Daniel's Law, the Safe Haven for Abandoned Babies Act, on Wednesday, September 6, 2023. The SC Safe Haven for Abandoned Babies Act provides a safe, legal option to surrender infants up to 60 days old at designed locations outlined by law.

DSS Announces New Laurens County Director

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Social Services would like to announce Dr. Shebby Neely Aiken as the new Laurens County DSS Director. Dr. Aiken began her role on Thursday, August 17th.

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