Make security a part of your grocery shopping routine with the ConnectEBT app’s new lock/unlock feature! Any time you make a purchase, simply launch the app and tap the new “Lock/Unlock” button. Swipe your card, lock it with the app and go! Learn more:

When parents have the support of friends, family, and their community, they’re better equipped to handle challenges and provide a safe, nurturing environment for their kids. Let’s foster a culture of care and support! Visit for info on key safety topics.

Protecting your EBT card from fraud starts with a strong PIN. Avoid common combinations like "1234" or your birthdate, never share your PIN with anyone, and regularly change your PIN to stay one step ahead of scammers. Learn more at

SNAP security is at your fingertips! VDSS has launched a new lock/unlock security feature to protect your benefits from scammers! You can now lock your EBT card after checkout right from your phone. Download Virginia’s official ConnectEBT app today.

Virginia is deeply committed to supporting kinship care, ensuring that children are placed with familiar, loving family members. Kinship care also provides a safe environment that keeps children connected to their roots. Every day is a good day to celebrate kinship families. 💗

Make lasting family memories without breaking the bank! @MuseumsForAll provides households receiving SNAP benefits with free or discounted entry to over 1,200 museums across the U.S. Find participating museums in Virginia and start planning your visit at

New babies don’t come with owner's manuals. That's why the Fatherhood Foundation of Virginia is bringing together “real dads” to share tips and perspectives in a New Dad 101 class on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Use code 'VDSS' to join for free:

Did you know unintentional firearm injuries are one of the highest causes of death for children aged 1-17? With 1 in 3 children living in homes with guns, it is always a good time to discuss gun safety. Visit to learn about gun safety tips.

Transitioning out of foster care at 18 but still need support? Fostering Futures provides housing, financial support for education, and more up to age 21. This voluntary program helps you build a strong foundation for adulthood. Learn more at

There are numerous myths surrounding foster care. Here is the truth: ✅ You can foster with biological children living at home with you. ✅ You don't have to be a stay-at-home parent to foster. ✅ The kids in foster care are NOT bad kids. Learn more:

Have you heard about @Charlies_Kids? It's a foundation with a mission to ensure that all babies see their first birthday. They combine medical expertise and personal experiences to educate parents and the medical community about SIDS and safe sleep. Visit

Adoption offers children the permanent, loving families they deserve. But all families need guidance and support from time to time, including adoptive family. Find post-adoption support by calling 1-800-DO-ADOPT or visiting

The Virginia Department of Social Services is closed today in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. For updates on local office closures, visit

Kinship care is rewarding, but it can also be challenging. You’ll navigate emotional, physical and legal needs while offering stability to your family. The Virginia Kinship Resource Guide provides resources and support to help you every step of the way.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can be an everyday challenge in these cold winter months, but you’re not alone in the fight. For the help you need, visit or call 988 for 24/7 assistance.

Meet Stacy, Sandra, Jorge, and others whose lives have been transformed by adopting teens from foster care. Hear their own words of the joys of first milestones like watching their child get a driver’s license and growing into all of their potential.

Preventing child abuse requires all of us to take action. When we help parents, support community programs, and report suspected abuse, we create a safer environment for children. Visit to learn more ways to keep children safe.

VDSS Home Office is now fully open. Henrico County lifted its boil water advisory on Saturday, January 11 after tests confirmed the county’s public water is clean and safe for human consumption and use. Continue to check for local office closures/delays.

January 11 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. It is important that community members are aware of how to keep themselves and their families safe. Click through to see considerations to keeping children safe online. For more info, visit

In response to a boil water advisory notice issued by Henrico County, the Virginia Department of Social Services' Home Office building is closed until further notice. Please continue to check for local office closures and delays.