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Father and child in swimming pool

Spotlight

Protect Children From Drownings: Simple Water Safety Tips

April 15, 2026

The number of children drowning or nearly drowning in Virginia is on the rise. Supervision should be the top priority whenever children are near water.

EBT card being used at terminal

Protect Yourself from EBT Fraud

EBT fraud is on the rise nationwide, but you can take action to protect your benefits. Simple steps like changing your PIN, locking your card through the ConnectEBT app, and checking card swiping devices for skimming hardware can help protect your be

Staff from Patrick County DSS gather outside in celebration of Wear Blue Day.

Local Departments Recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month

Local departments of social services from all corners of the Commonwealth recognized April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, each finding meaningful ways to elevate this critical issue within their own communities.

A caring mother puts her child to sleep in a safe crib free of any items like toys or pillows.

Safe Sleep Practices: Keeping Infants Safe

Between 2019 and 2023, more than 240 Virginia babies died in their sleep. Sudden Unexpected Infant Death, or SUID, is the sudden, unexpected and unexplained death of an infant.

News

Preparing for SNAP Interviews

When applying for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, be sure to check the SNAP Interviews page that has helpful tips on how to prepare for the interview...

Protect Yourself from EBT Fraud

EBT fraud is on the rise nationwide, but you can take action to protect your benefits. Simple steps like changing your PIN, locking your card through the ConnectEBT app, and checking card swiping devices for skimming hardware can help protect your be

Local Departments Recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month

Local departments of social services from all corners of the Commonwealth recognized April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, each finding meaningful ways to elevate this critical issue within their own communities.

Protect Children From Drownings: Simple Water Safety Tips

The number of children drowning or nearly drowning in Virginia is on the rise. Supervision should be the top priority whenever children are near water.

30 Ways to Support Foster and Kinship Families

Our “30 Ways” portal is designed to inspire and empower you all year long. This webpage is packed with actionable steps, volunteer opportunities, and thoughtful ways to help youth in foster care and foster families throughout Virginia. 

Media & FOIA

Reporters and media representatives can request information, official statements or records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by email to media@dss.virginia.gov.

Additional FOIA guidance for Virginia residents and organizations seeking public records is available by clicking here.