First County Close Up Meeting - DSS

 
On Wednesday, we launched County Close-Ups, a new series that gives residents the chance to learn about County Government departments, hear directly from department staff, and voice their questions, concerns and comments.
The Department of Social Services was first up, using its Close-Up to make residents aware of changes coming to Medicaid and SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps.
Here are highlights from the presentation:
 

SNAP changes

  • Work requirements now apply to more people — adults 55-64, parents of kids 14 and older, former foster youth, and people experiencing homelessness.
  • The utility deduction is available only to households with an elderly or disabled member.
  • Some immigrants, including refugees and survivors of human trafficking, will lose eligibility.

Medicaid changes

  • A new work requirement — 80 hours a month — starts Jan. 1, 2027, for adults 19-64.
  • Renewal moves from yearly to every six months.
  • Some non-citizens will lose eligibility starting Oct. 1, 2026.
  • The retroactive coverage window for adults shrinks from three months one. For kids, seniors and people with disabilities, it will be two months.

DSS staff stand ready to help residents understand their benefits, submit required documents, report changes and connect with community resources. Staff encourage residents to reach out before a problem arises.
Thank you to DSS for getting the County Close-Up series underway and helping keep our community informed.
Stay tuned for more opportunities to learn about your County Government through future County Close-Ups.
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Page last updated:  September 25, 2026

Contact Us


All inquiries go through the DSS main number:

(919) 989-5300

This includes Food Stamps (FNS), Medicaid, Temporary Assistance Needy Families (TANF), Child Care, Child Protection, Adult Protection, Foster Parenting, Transportation, and more.


Report Child Abuse/Neglect

Monday through Friday 8 am through 5 pm (919) 989-5300.
After hours, weekends and holidays, please call 911 or (919) 989-5000.


Report Adult Abuse/Neglect

Monday through Friday 8 am through 5 pm (919) 989-5300.
After hours, weekends and holidays, please call 911 or (919) 989-5000.


Domestic Violence

Call 911 or (919) 989-5000.


Calendar of Events

October 27

DSS Board Meeting

November 11

Veterans Day

November 24

DSS Board Meeting

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