Cabinet Secretary
Matt Althoff
Economic Assistance
Our Mission
We support the health and well-being of South Dakotans of all ages. Our team connects individuals and families with essential services, including medical care, food assistance, child care, heating and utility support, financial assistance, and employment assistance. Through programs offered by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and other community resources, we help people access the support they need to thrive.
Child Care Assistance is available to families who meet income guidelines and minimum work and/or school requirements.
Programs and services to low-income South Dakotans provided through Community Action Agencies.
Helps low-income families pay their heating bills and weatherize their homes.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income people buy the food they need to remain healthy.
Determines if people are eligible for the South Dakota Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid or CHIP).
The Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program provides a temporary monthly benefit to assist families with basic needs.
Work connections focus on barrier reduction, career pathways, and case management. Work is more than just survival. It can be a source of personal growth, fulfillment, and impact. The work connections we help people make may just be a step on the path to the job/career you really want.