During the COVID-19 pandemic, customers can apply for benefits online anytime at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. Citizens can apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP formerly food stamps), Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (EA). There is also a toll free number citizens can call to apply as well: 1-855-635-4370.   If customers require a replacement EBT card, call 1-866-281-2448 or contact your Benefits Caseworker and one will be mailed to you, if applicable. All verifications can be dropped in the drop box at the parking lot entrance of the Health & Human Services building, or you may contact your Benefits Caseworker for emailing options.  Furthermore, Tax Relief applicants can call (757) 514-4870 to request an application to be mailed to them.  Reports of abuse or neglect can be made during non-business hours at the phone numbers below: Child Protective Services (CPS) – 1 (800) 552-7096;    Adult Protective Services (APS) –    1 (888) 832-3858;    Family Violence & Sexual Assault – 1 (800) 838-8238.

Customers can contact 211 with questions about where they can get meals for children 18 years old or under or for seniors needing nutrition assistance or text the word FOOD to 877877 to get locations that are providing food near them or visit https://vafoodbanks.org .  For additional services and support, the United Way of South Hampton Roads has implemented a response plan with a focus on under resourced populations and those customers that fall in the ALICE category (Assets Limited, Income Strained, Employed).  Customers needing assistance can contact the United Way of South Hampton Roads Coronavirus hotline at (757) 858-7777 or visit their web site at https://www.unitedwayshr.org/coronavirus/.

We are striving to meet the varied needs of our growing community by assisting those who are experiencing economic hardships, helping families become self-reliant and providing community-based services to protect, stabilize and strengthen families. As you read about the different programs administered by the Department in this user-friendly website, we trust you will find the information you need.
 

Mission Statement

As the Suffolk Department of Social Services is a state supervised and locally administered organization, its mission and goals reflect both the goals of the state and the locality. The mission of the Virginia Social Services network is helping people triumph over poverty, abuse and neglect, and to shape strong futures for themselves, their families, and their community. The Suffolk Department of Social Services supports the developmental growth of its employees, the creativity of system enhancements, the expansion of services based on recognized need, the development of resources that reflect stewardship of the public trust, and compliance with the laws by which it is governed.

The Suffolk Department of Social Services is committed to excellence in promoting self-reliance and protection for the citizens of Suffolk through community-based services. The Department is responsible for administering an effective social services and financial services safety net that meets the basic needs of our citizens. We provide community-based services within an environment that promotes family stability and self-reliance.