What services does the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services provide?

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services provides a wide range of public assistance and support programs for people and families across the commonwealth. Its services are centered on helping Pennsylvanians access health care, food assistance, income support, long term care, and services for children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Some of the best known programs include Medicaid, which helps eligible individuals and families get medical coverage, and food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It also helps administer cash assistance for certain low income households, child support services, and behavioral health and substance use support programs. For older adults and people with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities, it oversees services that can include home and community based supports, residential care, and assistance with daily living. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services also plays a major role in child welfare, foster care, adoption related services, and programs that support early childhood and family stability. In addition, it works on eligibility and enrollment for many benefit programs, coordinates with county agencies and providers, and manages long term care options such as nursing facility support for those who qualify. Because programs and eligibility rules can change, the current web page is often the best place to review the most up to date list of services and to find contact information if someone needs help with a specific program.