What is the role of social services departments?
Welfare aims to support individuals and families as they work towards achieving a high-quality life. In all communities, social welfare is crucial. However, plenty of external factors prevent individuals from attaining this life. Thus, the role of the social services department becomes integral in ensuring individuals achieve self-reliance.
The social services department aims to create a support system for people with limited opportunities due to their social, physical, and economic disadvantages. The government social service agency in Tennessee is referred to as the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). The official website can be accessed here.
Mission Statement
The mission statement of the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is "To build stronger families by connecting Tennesseans to education, employment, and support services." This mission aims to provide the necessary support to as many people as possible to transform the quality of life for all Tennesseans.
Main Social Services Programs Offered by the State of Tennessee
1. Adult Social Services
Tennessee has prioritized the protection of all its residents from any form of abuse or neglect. Adult social services include multiple programs that ensure the safety of all people.
You can use the following hotlines to access the following specialized services.
- Adult Protective Services- you can report abuse, neglect, and self-neglect (1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366))
- Homemaker program- These services are limited to disabled adults and low-income elderly. For additional information, call ((615) 532-6250)
- Disability Determination Services (DDS) Helps people apply for disability claims to get a smooth process. For any pending disability claim, call (1-800-342-1117.)
- Adult Day Services- Aimed to ensure that participant's optimal capacity for self-care through social or medical services. Any violations can be reported at (1-800-462-8261)
2. Child Support Programs
These programs aim to ensure that all children are provided with equal opportunities and high-quality life. Tennessee offers many programs for children to ensure they gain financial and family support. These programs are listed below.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)- Qualifying households are provided with a grocery stipend (866-311-4287)
- Child support program- provides support services to ensure parental responsibility. Applications for this program are found here.
- Childcare services- Includes multiple programs such as child and adult care licensing. Application found here.
3. Nutrition programs
Nutrition is a key aspect for children and adults. Tennessee provides programs such as Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). The Tennessee Human Services official website allows interested individuals to apply to see if they qualify.
4. Families support
Families are the cornerstone of Tennessee society. The state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is one program of this service. The Families First programs will allow Tennesseans to reach their goal of self-sufficiency through employment, educational support, childcare assistance, and transportation. You can apply for resources online here.
5. Disability Services
A section of the population is affected by disabilities which may impact their quality of life. Existing programs under this service include the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, Blind & Visually Impaired program, and Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP). For disability services and more information, visit here.