Washington County Department of Social Services

06/25/2026

Navigating new federal changes to benefits programs under H.R. 1 can be challenging for families and the community partners supporting them.

To help understand the latest updates, the Maryland Department of Human Services has launched a comprehensive new SNAP Communications Toolkit. 🧰

The standout tool? The SNAP Workforce Resource Guide. It’s designed to help community-based organizations and workforce providers connect Marylanders with crucial support, featuring clear answers on:

🔹 New federal work requirements and exemptions
🔹 Which work activities count toward work requirements
🔹 How to verify work hours for SNAP customers

Help us ensure no Maryland family faces hunger alone. Explore the toolkit and share the resource guide today: https://dhs.maryland.gov/snap-toolkit/

06/24/2026

June is National Reunification Month, a time to celebrate family and the work of caregivers, caseworkers, and communities who help children safely return home.

Between Oct. 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025, 474 Maryland youth were reunified with their families.

06/22/2026

If you suspect that a child or adult is experiencing abuse or neglect, please report it to your local Department of Social Services by calling 1-800-91PREVENT (1-800-917-7383) immediately.

To learn more about reporting abuse or neglect, visit: https://dhs.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-or-neglect/

Let’s keep our community safe.

06/19/2026

Happy Juneteenth, Maryland.

Today, we honor the contributions and achievements of Black Americans and reaffirm our commitment to serving all Marylanders with dignity, respect, and compassion.

All Maryland Department of Human Services offices are closed today in observance of the holiday.

06/19/2026

📍Important Update!

Effective today, our meal service location has moved from Calvary Kids to St. John’s in Clear Spring.

We look forward to continuing to serve the community at our new location and hope to see you there!

06/15/2026

Every older adult deserves to age with dignity, security, and respect.

Today, June 15th, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It’s a day to shine a light on a problem that often stays hidden in the shadows. Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, or financial, and it affects millions of older adults worldwide.

We all have a role to play in protecting the seniors in our lives. Here is how you can help:

Check-in: Call or visit older relatives, neighbors, and friends regularly.

Listen: Pay attention if they express worry, fear, or a sudden change in their financial situation.

Speak up: If you suspect something isn't right, don't stay silent.

Let’s build a community where our elders feel safe, valued, and loved.

If you suspect someone is being mistreated, please remember to call 1-800-91PREVENT (1-800-917-7383).

06/13/2026

A resource parent provides care, stability, and support while helping children maintain connections with their biological families. As this resource parent reflects, welcoming a child into your family doesn't replace existing relationships — it adds to the network of people who care about them.

During National Reunification Month, we recognize the important relationship between biological and resource parents, and thank them for the vital role they play together in ensuring children receive the love and support they need.

06/12/2026

Protect your benefits: We will never call or text you to ask for your EBT PIN or Social Security number. As we upgrade our systems, stay alert to scams. If you’re unsure or need to report suspected fraud, call (202) 690-1622 or visit www.usda.gov/oig/hotline.htm.

06/11/2026

Congratulations Kollin!

We’re excited to share that our very own Kollin Murphy from the Washington County Department of Social Services received the Mission Advocacy Award at the 71st Annual Horizon Goodwill Power of Work Awards!

Through the Dad's Connection program, Kollin helps fathers overcome challenges, strengthen family relationships, and, as he puts it, “become the dads they want to become.”

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Kollin. Thank you for the impact you make every day for Washington County families.

06/11/2026

The Washington County Office of Emergency Management is monitoring a period of hot and humid weather expected through Friday, with heat index values between 100°–105°, along with the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms. Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware and take precautions as conditions may change quickly.

🌡️ Heat Safety
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Limit outdoor activity during peak heat (Noon–8 PM)
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Check on elderly neighbors, relatives, and those without air conditioning
- Never leave children or pets in vehicles

⛈️ Storm Safety
- Stay alert for weather updates and warnings
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items
- Charge phones and backup devices
- Be prepared for strong winds, heavy rain, lightning, and possible power outages
- Seek shelter indoors immediately if storms approach

🧊 Cooling & Hydration Locations
💧 Water Stations
- The Hope Center – 125 N. Prospect St.
- Horizon Goodwill Industries – 200 N. Prospect St.
- Potomac Community Services Homeless Outreach – 29 E. Washington St.

❄️ Cooling Centers and Public Cooling Sites
- REACH Day Resource Center (Mon–Thu, 9 AM–1 PM)
- PCS Homeless Outreach (Mon–Fri, 8 AM–4 PM)
- Soul Haven / OCA (Mon–Fri, 10 AM–4 PM)
- Horizon Goodwill YASC (Mon–Fri, 10 AM–3 PM)
- The Hope Center / Rescue Mission (daily access)
- Washington County Free Library locations (various hours)
- Robinwood Atrium (water, seating, restrooms, Wi-Fi)
- Valley Mall
- John Wesley UMC (Saturdays 1–3 PM, June–August)

The Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor conditions. Small changes in the forecast may impact timing or severity of heat and storms.

Stay informed. Stay cool. Stay safe.

Sign up for WashCoMD Alerts at https://www.washco-md.net/emergency-management/washcomdalerts/