The Franklin County Department of Social Services plays a crucial role in the public social services network of Virginia, operating as one of 120 local departments within the state. As a county government agency, the department is responsible for administering a range of public assistance and social work service programs funded by federal, state, and local sources. These programs are designed to support the residents of Franklin County across various needs.
Understanding Common Help and Social Services
“Common Help” acts as a gateway to numerous social services in Virginia, and the Franklin County Department of Social Services leverages this system to offer streamlined access to crucial assistance programs. CommonHelp, accessible online at https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/, is a vital tool for residents seeking support. It simplifies the process of applying for and managing various social service benefits.
The core mission of the Franklin County Department of Social Services is centered around community well-being. The department is dedicated to protecting vulnerable individuals, fostering self-sufficiency and economic independence, and proactively preventing adverse social outcomes for all Franklin County residents. This mission drives their commitment to providing accessible and effective social services.
Accessing Services and Contact Information
The main office of the Franklin County Department of Social Services is located at 120 East Court Street, Rocky Mount Virginia 24151. While the physical lobby is open to the public from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, certain divisions operate differently to enhance service delivery. Notably, the Benefits Division operates on a telework basis. However, in-person assistance for benefits-related inquiries is still available at the main office, ensuring all residents can receive the help they need regardless of their access to technology. The Services and Administration divisions continue to operate from the main building and are available to address resident needs.
For urgent after-hours concerns related to Child Protective Services (CPS) or Adult Protective Services (APS), hotlines are available 24/7. For CPS concerns, please call 1-800-552-7096, and for APS concerns, dial 1-888-832-3858.
Applying for benefits is made convenient through multiple channels. Residents can apply online via the CommonHelp portal, by phone at 1-855-635-4370 for most benefits, or specifically for Medical Assistance at 1-855-242-8282 (TDD: 1-888-221-1590). For those preferring paper applications, these are readily available outside the main entrance of each office location, along with drop boxes for easy submission. Residents can also request a self-addressed stamped envelope to mail in applications by calling 540-483-9247. The department operates from two locations: 120 East Court Street and 1533 Franklin Street, both in Rocky Mount, VA 24151.
CommonHelp: Your 24/7 Social Services Portal
CommonHelp is designed for ease of use, providing Virginia residents with 24/7 online access to screen for and apply for a variety of essential services, including:
- Cash Assistance (TANF): Temporary Assistance for Needy Families provides financial aid to families with children.
- Child Care Services: Assistance with child care costs, enabling parents to work or attend training/education programs.
- Energy Assistance (Fuel, Crisis, and Cooling): Programs to help with heating and cooling costs, especially during emergencies.
- Food Assistance (SNAP): The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, providing food benefits to low-income individuals and families.
- Medical Assistance (Medicaid): Healthcare coverage for eligible individuals and families.
Beyond initial applications, CommonHelp also allows users to renew their eligibility and report any changes relevant to their case for all listed programs, making it a comprehensive resource for managing social services benefits.
Energy Assistance Program: Cooling Component
The Franklin County Department of Social Services actively participates in the Energy Assistance Program. Specifically, the Cooling component, crucial during summer months, operates from June 15th to August 15th each year. Residents can apply for cooling assistance through the CommonHelp website, by calling the Enterprise Customer Service Center at 855-635-4370 or 833-522-5582, or in person at the 120 East Court Street office. Mailed applications are also available upon request by calling 540-483-9247, and applications are placed in a grey box outside the main office for convenient pick-up.
Rocky Mount Farmers Market EBT Acceptance
In an effort to increase food access within the community, the Rocky Mount Farmers Market now accepts Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. Customers can use their EBT cards at the market on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A Market Manager is available to process EBT transactions, providing wooden tokens that can be used as cash with market vendors. This initiative allows residents utilizing food assistance benefits to access fresh, local produce and support local farmers.
Non-Discrimination Policy
The Franklin County Department of Social Services adheres to a strict non-discrimination policy, ensuring equitable access to services for all. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, the department prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs, or disability. Individuals believing they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with the USDA Office of Civil Rights at 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or by calling 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382 (TTY). Further information on this policy can be found at http://foiacouncil.dls.virginia.gov/.
For any queries or for obtaining a replacement EBT card, residents can call 1-866-281-2448. For quicker service, contacting your assigned caseworker directly is recommended. If you do not have your caseworker’s direct number, please call 540-483-9247 to obtain it. Keeping your caseworker’s direct number readily available is advised for efficient and streamlined service from the Franklin County Department of Social Services and Common Help programs.
