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Commissioner: Alan D. Barry, Ph.D.
Telephone: (203) 622-3800
Fax: (203) 622-7762
Location: Town Hall, Third Floor
Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
The mission of the Department of Social Services is to enhance the quality of life of Greenwich residents through support in meeting basic human needs and promoting services that foster self-sufficiency and economic independence.
As the images here reflect, we serve as your bridge. We connect you to the essential resources of the community. These resources provide the support you may need, such as food, shelter, educational and employment opportunities, personal safety and access to health care services. The available services are diverse and support all ages. Our services are provided by a dedicated professional staff and a network of community partners. We also have staff that are bi-lingual.
The headings on the right hand side of this page provide a set of service descriptions that will give you a better understanding of how we can support you. To contact us, please call 203-622-3800 or come to our offices in Town Hall between 8:30am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. After hours appointments are available on request.
Upcoming Events/Dates to Remember:
• Operation Fuel: Operation Fuel is a privately funded 501(c) 3 not–for-profit organization providing financial assistance to eligible low-income families with fuel or utility emergencies through a network of fuel banks. GDSS administers the program locally. Awards are paid directly to the household heating fuel or utility service company. The Operation Fuel Spring Program will run from 4/29-6/30/13, or until all funds are exhausted.
For more information regarding the Energy Programs, call (203) 622-3800.
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Renters Rebate Program
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Greenwich residents who are age sixty-five or older, or disabled and under age sixty-five, and receiving disability payments, may be eligible to receive a rent rebate from the State of Connecticut.
... Read more
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS |
What services do you provide?
Our services, available to all Greenwich residents, begins with an assessment of basic needs including food, housing, healthcare and personal safety to determine program eligibility and provide information and referral services. We also offer a range of services based on need and income eligibility. These include counseling, case management, mental health support services, English as a Second Language, holiday gifts program, campership program, energy assistance, renter’s rebate, homemaker services, youth support services and supports for gaining self-sufficiency. We also offer limited emergency financial assistance to those meeting specific residency, income and policy requirements.
Do you have services in Spanish?
Yes, we have bilingual staff available to assist you.
How do I access services?
To schedule a confidential intake appointment, please call anytime Monday-Friday between 8:30 am-5:00 pm. You may also call to schedule an after-hours appointment if needed. For those who are unable to come to our offices, transportation and home visits are also available.
I have recently lost my job. How do I know what benefits/services may be eligible?
Our knowledgeable staff are able to assist you in applying for all Federal, State and local benefits and entitlements you may be eligible for including SNAP (food stamps ), Husky (also known as Medicaid) and Unemployment Benefits.
Do you have any programs available to assist low income families?
Yes, we can assist families with applications for benefits indicated above, as well as, with our Community Gifts programs including Boots and Shoes, Backpacks, Holiday Gifts, Campership, and English as a Second language. GDSS also operates an after school Program in Byram (BANC) and a Youth Conservation Program that provides short-term summer employment to 14-15 year olds.
I am turning 65 and don't know what benefits I am eligible for, can GDSS assist me?
Yes, we have caseworkers who specialize in Senior Services and work closely with the Commission on Aging to provide optimal services to Greenwich Seniors. In addition we administer energy assistance, Operation Fuel and Renter’s Rebate for Greenwich senior/disabled residents.
Do you provide mental health services?
Yes, we have case managers who specialize in mental health services and are knowledgeable concerning benefits and programs in the community that can best assist you or your family member.
Can you help people who need counsel on mental health?
A mental health professional on staff is available to work with clients needing help.
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