News & Information
Social Workers Honored
Social Workers Honored
According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, social work is defined as "any of various professional activities or methods concretely concerned with providing social services and especially with the investigation, treatment, and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged."
Social workers are a caring and empathetic group of people who strive to assist their clients achieve self-sufficiency. The employees of Sussex County Division of Social Services provide benefit applications, case management and homeless services to Sussex County's most vulnerable population.
Aside from the employees who work directly with the public, there is a group of staff members working behind the scenes who are just as instrumental to client care. These staff members assist with processing payments timely, filing cases, answering phones and making sure that the regulations are being adhered to properly.
Often social workers need to assess the situation quickly in order to make a determination on what sort of assistance can be provided.
Social workers are responsible for ensuring that clients are applying for the most appropriate benefits whether it is Food Stamps, Medicaid, cash assistance or housing assistance. They are responsible for working with and making referrals to other community agencies or housing programs. The partnering agencies who provide services such as child care, senior services or budgeting may be the difference between an individual being homeless or self-sufficient.
Adult Protective Service social workers investigate allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults over the age of 18. These social workers coordinate services to ensure the safety and well-being of this at risk population.
The County of Sussex, Division of Social Services is very appreciative of the employees who serve the public every day. It is a challenging job, but every success brings encouragement and inspiration to move past the difficult days.