Mission
To design and deliver high-quality human services that help Virginians achieve safety, independence and overall well-being.
Mission, Vision & Strategic Planning
Shaping strong futures for all Virginians
The Virginia Social Services System — 120 local offices, community action programs, and VDSS — works together to bring hope and help to over 2 million Virginians each year.
Mission, Vision and Values
Vision
A Commonwealth where all Virginians have the resources they need to shape strong futures.
People First
Embrace Differences
Commit to Excellence
Think Bigger
Win Together
Our Strategic Plan
We plan our work throughout the year so that people get the help they need. Our approach is built on four commitments that keep services responsive, accountable, and improving.
Set clear goals as one team
State and local staff align around shared outcomes so that every decision, from policy to casework, moves toward the same goals for Virginia families.
Use data to check our work
We use Virginia's accountability systems to track progress, identify gaps, and stay on track. Results are shared openly with staff, partners, and the public.
Solve problems in small teams
Staff across the system meet regularly to surface challenges, test solutions, and improve services before issues grow, prioritizing speed and inclusion.
Listen to local offices and partners
The people delivering and using our services know what works. We actively seek their input to make sure our help is easy to find and use.
How we measure progress
VDSS tracks outcomes across all major program areas. Here is how our accountability system works in practice.
Program performance
Case timeliness, eligibility accuracy, and service delivery rates tracked quarterly
Community feedback
Input gathered from local offices, partners, and residents to inform planning
Annual reporting
Results published in agency reports and shared with the Governor and General Assembly
Continuous improvement
Cross-functional teams review data and implement changes on a rolling basis
From Strategy to Services
Strategic priorities connect directly to programs serving Virginians today.
Adoption
The Virginia Adoption Program helps children in foster care find safe, permanent homes when they cannot return to their families.
Child Protective Services
Child Protective Services (CPS) is here to help when there are concerns about a child’s safety or well-being. CPS steps in to listen and respond to reports of possible abuse or neglect of children under 18.
Child Support Services
The Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) helps parents and caregivers take steps to support children. Whether you need to establish paternity, open a child support case or manage a child support case, we are here to help.
Foster Care
Virginiaʼs foster care program gives children safe, temporary homes when they cannot live with their parents. The goal is to reunite families when itʼs safe and give every child hope for the future.
Refugee Services
Virginia welcomes refugees and their families. The Refugee Resettlement Program helps newcomers adjust to life in their new communities, find stability and build strong futures.
Virginia Benefit Programs
The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) offers benefits and support services that help individuals and families meet their basic needs, stay healthy and work toward greater stability.
Find my local department