DHSS Press Release |
Date: April 17, 2008 DHSS-30-2008 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW SMYRNA STATE SERVICE CENTER OPEN FOR BUSINESS APRIL 21
SMYRNA, DE - On Monday April 21 at 8am, the new Smyrna State Service Center opens for business. The new 10,000 sq. ft. center broke ground last June, after the decision to build it was made based in part on both demographic need analyses and community outreach.
"We are delighted to be able to offer these services and supports to Delawareans living between Middletown and Dover," said Vincent Meconi, Secretary, Delaware Health and Social Services. "The new Center would not be possible without the outstanding assistance of dedicated family members, foster parents, community groups, religious organizations, private providers and other government agencies and individuals, including Governor Ruth Ann Minner."
"A big thanks goes out to Senator Cook whose efforts and request for funding helped make this possible," said Gloria Upshur, Director, Division of State Service Centers Division. "Prior to the opening many clients from the area have had to travel to Newark or Dover for services. Now, at any point in time, approximately 1,500 area clients will be served by the new center." Under this "one-stop" roof clients will be able to access many services available through DHSS including: Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program; food stamps, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits/employment & training supports, and child care assistance from the Division of Social Services; Long Term Care medical and regular Medicaid assistance, including the state Children's Healthcare Insurance Program (CHIP), and prescription assistance from the Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance; and from the Division of State Service Centers, assistance with a variety of types of utility bills (e.g., electric, gas, water/sewer), weatherization services, fuel oil help through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), emergency food assistance, supports from the Adopt-A-Family program and the Family Visitation Centers, as well as access to training & technical assistance and a myriad of volunteerism programs, projects and activities within the State Office of Volunteerism.
The Smyrna State Service Center is located at: 200 S. DuPont Boulevard, Suite 101, Smyrna, DE 19977. 302-514-4500
State Service Center hours are 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday thru Friday.
The 15 State Service Centers offer a helping hand and lifeline for all Delaware residents. Each year, more than 600,000 children, families, vulnerable adults and seniors come to the Centers for protection, comfort, food assistance, financial aid, medical care and other services. As a single point of service, the State Service Centers provide access to services from several programs to meet the multiple needs of the majority of clients.
An official open house ceremony is planned for Wednesday, May 7th, 10:00am. - 2:00pm. All are welcome to stop in during that time. More on that to come.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
