The Sussex County Division of Social Services administers many programs, of which ‘Welfare’ is a small, but important part. 

The following is a hypothetical case situation using all DSS programs.

A woman becomes pregnant.  The unborn and expectant mother are potentially eligible for Medicaid. The mother is potentially eligible for cash General Assistance (GA) and Food Stamps (FS).  If housing is an issue, Emergency Assistance (EA) may be available for security, rent, heat and utilities.   Transportation to medical services is provided to anyone receiving Medicaid, except nursing home recipients. 

When the child is born the mother and child are potentially eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Food Stamps, Medicaid and Emergency Assistance. The mother must cooperate in seeking Child Support from the father; and Paternity establishment, if necessary (CSP)  The mother must participate in the Work First NJ (WFNJ) employment and job training program.

When the mother obtains employment, post-TANF/WFNJ benefits provide time limited Child Care, and Medicaid, and perhaps Food Stamps and WFNJ funds to support the employment, such as auto repair, auto insurance and work tools or clothing. The child likely retains eligibility through the NJ FamilyCare program (NJFC).

When Child reaches 18, child might receive GA, FS and Medicaid for self.

Later in life if child becomes disabled, then aged, the child, now an adult, might need assistance to remain in the community through the provision of a homemaker or chore services thru Peer Grouping, Social Service Block Grant (SSBG), or Social Service to the Homeless (SSH) NJ grant funds.  In many instances Medicaid is also available..  

If the adult becomes vulnerable, the Adult Protective Service Program (APS) will investigate and take remediation action.  If the adult lives in a Boarding Home, regular monitoring will be done to ensure safety and socialization to remain active in the community using Recreational Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities (ROID) grant money.

If Nursing Home care is needed, alternatives through the Caregiver Assistance Program (CAP) and the Community Care Program for the Elderly and Disabled (CCPED), allow the person to remain at home for as long as possible.  When Nursing Home care is necessary, Medicaid will likely be authorized for the care.

When the person dies, modest funeral and burial is likely available.