Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is a state agency in Washington responsible for providing a wide range of social and health services to the residents of the state. The agency's mission is to transform lives by providing support and services to individuals and families in need.

History[edit | edit source]

The DSHS was established in 1970, consolidating several state agencies to create a more efficient and comprehensive system for delivering social and health services. Over the years, the department has expanded its programs and services to address the evolving needs of Washington's population.

Services[edit | edit source]

The DSHS offers a variety of services, including but not limited to:

Child Protective Services[edit | edit source]

Child Protective Services (CPS) is responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and neglect, providing services to protect children, and supporting families to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

Adult Protective Services[edit | edit source]

Adult Protective Services (APS) investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults and provides protective services to ensure their safety.

Behavioral Health Services[edit | edit source]

Behavioral Health Services include mental health and substance use disorder services, aiming to support individuals in achieving recovery and maintaining their mental health.

Developmental Disabilities Administration[edit | edit source]

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides services and support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, promoting independence and community inclusion.

Economic Services Administration[edit | edit source]

The Economic Services Administration (ESA) offers financial assistance, food assistance, and employment services to help individuals and families achieve economic stability.

Aging and Long-Term Support Administration[edit | edit source]

The Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA) provides services to older adults and individuals with disabilities, helping them live independently and with dignity.

Rehabilitation Administration[edit | edit source]

The Rehabilitation Administration (RA) offers vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, assisting them in finding and maintaining employment.

Organizational Structure[edit | edit source]

The DSHS is headed by a Secretary, who is appointed by the Governor of Washington. The department is divided into several administrations, each responsible for specific service areas. These administrations work collaboratively to provide comprehensive support to the residents of Washington.

Headquarters[edit | edit source]

The headquarters of the DSHS is located in Olympia, Washington.

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Washington State Department of Social and Health Services