We Are Here to Help
Office of Community Services (OCS), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families partners with states, territories, tribes, and community agencies to eliminate the causes and consequences of poverty, increase self-sufficiency of individuals and families, and revitalize communities. Through seven distinct social service and community development programs, OCS works to improve the lives of low-income children, individuals, families, and communities. Below, you will find information about each of our programs.
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Energy Bills, Minor Home Repairs, and Making Your Home Energy Efficient
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. LIHEAP can help you stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To find LIHEAP contacts in your state, click here .
Home Water Bills
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps low-income households pay their water and wastewater bills, to prevent shutoffs or restore services. To connect with LIHWAP resources in your community, click here.
Recovering from a Disaster
OCS works with local community organizations to fund and support disaster relief efforts. If your family has experienced severe weather or another weather incident, click here for resources and contacts in your community .
Diapers for children
OCS funds 21 community organizations to build local diaper distribution efforts and connect families with other support services. For more information on finding diapers in your area, click here.
Food, Housing, Job Training, Health Care, Child Care, and More
OCS funds community organizations that provide a wide range of services, deeply rooted in the needs of their community. To find a local community organization, click here .
Economic Development Opportunities in Your Community
The Community Economic Development Program funds local organizations to start and build businesses in low-income communities. These businesses create long term, high quality jobs for people with low incomes. To learn more about projects in your community, chick here.
Counseling and Support, Day Care for Children, Treatment for Substance Use Disorder, the Differently Abled, Vulnerable Adults, and Youth at Risk
Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) funds states, Tribes, and territories to develop and deliver services for older and vulnerable adults, children, and youth at risk. Services can include treatment for substance use disorder, residential living facilities, day care for children, and home-based services for vulnerable adults, among others. For more information about social services in your area, find your local contact here.
Water and Wastewater Services in Rural Communities
Rural Community Development (RCD) is a federal grant program that funds regional and tribal organizations to manage safe water systems in rural communities. Find out more about services in your area here.