Social Services
Social Services is composed of services that include adoption assistance, adult, family and children’s services, chemical and mental health services, elderly and disability services, foster care and child care licensing and community education and prevention services.
Adoption
Adoption assistance is provided to persons interested in adopting children, adults who are in search of their biological family members or persons choosing to relinquish custody of their children.
Adult Protection
Reports of possible abuse and/or neglect need to be reported through the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) by calling 844-880-1574. Mandated reporters can make reports at www.mn.gov/dhs/reportadultabuse. Reports will then be forwarded to the appropriate lead agency.
Adult Foster Care
Adult Foster Care is a licensed home-like setting for adults who are unable to live on their own. These placements may be short-term, long-term or respite care.
Chemical Dependency
Chemical dependency services provide prevention, community education, case management, assessment, detoxification services, treatment services and aftercare to the general public and individuals experiencing chemical use problems in order to reduce personal and social costs of chemical abuse.
Mental Health Services
Mental health case management services are available for any adult, child or family member who is experiencing mental health problems. The services may include crisis support or referrals for hospitalization, if necessary.
Court Services
Commitment services are available.
Child Foster Care Services
Child foster care is a licensed home-like setting for children who are unable to live with their families for a variety of reasons. These placements may be on an emergency, temporary, long-term or respite basis. The goal is that the children will be reunited with their families.
Child Protection
Child protection workers receive reports of possible physical, emotional or sexual abuse and/or neglect and take appropriate action to provide for the safety of the children if needed.
Children and Family Services
This includes assessments, assistance in identifying services that may be beneficial, either within or outside the agency and the development and ongoing monitoring of individualized service plans.
Family Based Services
Provides parent education and counseling in the family home as an alternative to an out-of-home placement or preparing for a child to return home from an out-of-home placement.
Pregnant Adolescent Services
Pregnant adolescent services are available to anyone 17 years old or younger and are pregnant or already have a child. These services may be required if the minor parent is receiving a monthly cash benefit. Services may include assisting with establishing paternity, schooling, daycare, employment and other appropriate referrals.
Developmental Disability Services
Services to adults and children with developmental disabilities include coordinating appropriate assessments and evaluations, developing an individualized plan and assisting to identify potential services and providers. Services also include exploring appropriate and individualized services to encourage as much independent and integrated living as possible.
MnChoices Assessments
Public Health Nurses and Social Workers assess the appropriateness of nursing home placement and provide information and resources for alternative living arrangements or in-home services. This is a free service offered to help determine the kinds of limitations a person has and the services available to help meet their needs.
Services to Seniors
Services to seniors are for persons age 60 and over who are experiencing difficulty living independently and are unable to provide for their needs.
Licensing
Licensing services include Day Care, Adult Foster Care, and Child Foster Care on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the Licensor conducts background studies on individuals and corporations, inspects homes where care is provided, provides training, consultation and guidance. Homes must meet minimum standards including fire and building codes and health and safety standards. Qualified licensed day care and foster homes are always needed.
Licensed Child Care Information
Minnesota Department of Health eDoc Forms
- Family Child Care Weekly Attendance Schedule (DHS-7297)
- Variance Request Family Child Care (DHS-7297A)
- Variance Request Notice for Parents (DHS-7297B)