County of Onslow issued the following announcement on Sept. 19.
The Onslow County Department of Social Services has released its 2021-22 annual report showing the economic and social impact of the agency within our community. The report documents that over the past two years Onslow County has experienced significant increases in applications for economic benefits.
Medicaid beneficiaries increased by 29% which is in part due to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act that provided continuous enrollment regardless of eligibility changes. Providers within our community were paid over $76 million through the Medicaid program.
Onslow County citizens were issued over $69 million in Food and Nutrition Benefits during fiscal year 2021-22. DSS oversaw more than $5 million in child care subsidies to help families in our community.
Kari Sanders, Director of the Department of Social Services, says the department’s dedicated staff touches thousands of lives in Onslow County. “They are constantly striving to improve the lives of others, and continue their service with increased caseloads and demands every day. We are thankful for our community partners that assist us in our work, and for our County Management that continues to support our mission.”
Social work programs continued to see growth in the areas of Child Welfare and Adult Services. Onslow County averaged 146 children in the Department’s custody throughout the year. Permanence was successfully achieved for 60 children but there is a continued need for foster parents. Adult Services staff continue to work diligently to protect adults from abuse or neglect and served as guardian for 76 individuals during the fiscal year.
Greater detail regarding the impact of Onslow County Department of Social Services is available in the full annual report which is available online at OnslowCountyNC.gov/DSSReport . The report also includes data on energy assistance, child support administration, medical transport, Youth Services, and PEERS.
Original source can be found here.
