On August 17, 2010 at 6:00 pm, the Lewis County Department of Social Services will be hosting an informational meeting for persons interested in becoming foster parents.

Please contact Linda Leonard at 376-5403 for more information. 

 MISSION STATEMENT

The Department of Social Services ensures the well-being and safety of children and families in Lewis County through a variety of programs and services.

Tangible supports are provided through federal & state mandated programs to the neediest and poorest of Lewis County citizenry. The Department provides the safety net.

Health and safety assessments assure that people of all ages are protected from harm. The Department is responsible for assuring protection to our most vulnerable.

DSS is a leading employer in Lewis County with 67 permanent full time staff members. The vast majority of revenue to support DSS comes from federal and state sources. The programs that require local share bring at least $3 of federal and state funds for every $1 spent by the county.

 WHO DO WE SERVE?

The State of Poverty is the largest state in the union. In Lewis County one in every eight people lives below the poverty level as defined by the federal government. About 4,700 Lewis County citizens are captured within the following chart:

2008 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States & DC

# in family     Poverty Guideline

1.....................  $10,400

2.....................    14,000

3.....................    17,600

4......................   21,200

5.....................    24,800

6.....................    28,400

7....................     32,000

8....................     35,600

For families with more than 8 persons, add $3,600 for each additional person.

Families who seek support & services from DSS:

• Vast majority are working and living below the poverty level.
• Families with young children or are elders and disabled adults.
• Families who are of necessity making hard choices between food, health care, heat & rent.