After receiving Town approval, The Board of the Department of Social Services is pleased to announce a name change to the Department of Human Services.
“Our new name reflects the broad impact the department has on identifying and advocating for action on critical social, public health and safety issues, such as opioid abuse and youth development, that have an impact on all Greenwich residents,” said Barbara Nolan, Board Chair for the Department of Human Services. “In considering the name change, the Board felt the new name implies more inclusivity and better reflects the work the department does for clients in the community.”
“We have moved to transform the department from functioning as a casework agency that assisted clients in attaining entitlements and financial assistance to a case management agency with staff working in partnership with clients to support their efforts in achieving self-sufficiency,” said Alan Barry, Commissioner for the Department of Human services.
Greenwich First Selectman, Peter Tesei encouraged the Board to move ahead with the proposed name change and expressed his enthusiastic support.
“There have been many positive program developments taking place involving the department’s role in Town issues and responding to the needs of Greenwich residents. The name change reflects the department’s commitment to its mission,” Tesei said.
The department’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of Greenwich residents through support in meeting basic human needs and promoting services that foster self-sufficiency.
“We’re excited about the name change and the direction the department is taking,” Ms. Nolan said.