Human Services (DHS)

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Human Services in Action

Overdose Vigil Brings Arlington Together in Remembrance and Hope

More than 185 people gathered to honor loved ones lost to overdose, support recovery, and reaffirm that no one in Arlington should have to face substance use challenges alone.

Summer Food Safety: Tips for Outdoor Meals

Heading to a picnic, cookout, or backyard barbecue? Follow a few simple food safety tips to keep summer meals safe, fresh, and enjoyable for everyone.

WIC Helps Arlington Families With Breastfeeding

From breast pumps to peer counselors, Arlington WIC helps parents get the support they need to breastfeed with confidence.

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About the Department of Human Services

The Arlington County Department of Human Services (DHS) works to advance economic security, safety, and general well-being. Our vision is a just and equitable community that is healthy, safe, and economically secure, and free of systemic racism.

DHS is the County’s largest department, serving more than 58,000 individuals annually with a budget of over $183 million, about 800 employees, and more than 100 programs. DHS is well-equipped to address the complex needs of at-risk persons and their families because it is an integrated agency that houses public assistance, social services, behavioral healthcare, housing, public health, child & family services, aging & disability services, and job programs under one department. DHS oversees and evaluates the complete range of human needs in the County, provides direct services in response to those needs, and contracts with the non-profit sector to provide additional services to those not met directly by the County.