Are you a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) senior or Master of Social Work (MSW) student at a public university in Virginia who wants to make a real difference for children and families? The Child Welfare Stipend Program was created for students like you.
Through a partnership between the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and five Virginia universities, this program offers $10,000 in financial support each year, specialized training and a pathway into child welfare careers. It’s designed to prepare future social workers to promote safety, stability and permanency for children while strengthening families across the Commonwealth.
In return for the stipend, students commit to working in foster care, in-home/prevention and/or adoption at a Virginia local department of social services (LDSS) after graduation—gaining meaningful experience and starting a career that matters.
Learn more through our Frequently Asked Questions.
By joining the Child Welfare Stipend Program, you’ll graduate with more experience and the confidence to begin a meaningful career serving children and families across Virginia.
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