Getting Help from Yancey County Social Services: Programs for Families in Crisis
If your household is stretched thin while someone you love is incarcerated, Yancey County Department of Social Services (DSS) may be able to help with basics like food, utilities, health coverage, and other support. Here's a breakdown of the main programs so you can see what's worth asking about.
Yancey County Department of Social Services (DSS) exists to help families and individuals maintain or improve their quality of life, while also working to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable people. If you’re trying to keep a family stable during a crisis, DSS is one of the first places to ask about support.
Economic
- ✓ Food and Nutrition Assistance (formerly “Food Stamps”) - help paying for groceries when income is tight.
- ✓ Energy Assistance - help with utility-related needs when keeping the lights and heat on is the immediate concern.
- ✓ Medicaid Assistance Programs - help with health coverage for people who qualify.
- ✓ Emergency Assistance - short-term help for urgent situations when you don’t have time to wait.
- ✓ Child Care Subsidy - help covering child care costs so you can keep working or handle necessary appointments.
If you're approved for Medicaid through Yancey DSS, ask about Medicaid Transportation Services too. Getting a ride to appointments can be the piece that makes medical care possible - especially when you're juggling work, kids, and staying connected with an incarcerated loved one.
Yancey DSS also provides Child Welfare Services. If your family is under stress and you’re worried about a child’s safety, stability, or basic needs, this is the program area to ask about when you contact DSS.
If your household includes an older adult or another vulnerable adult who needs support, Yancey DSS provides Adult Services and administers Special Assistance for Adults. These programs can help when a primary caregiver is suddenly gone and the family is trying to keep housing, care, and daily life from falling apart.
Yancey DSS provides Adoptions services as well. If your family is exploring long-term plans for a child’s care, DSS can tell you what options and steps apply in your situation.
Next step: Contact Yancey County DSS directly to ask which programs fit your household and what paperwork you'll need. Eligibility rules vary by situation, so reaching out early can save you time.
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