FAQs • York County, PA • CivicEngage

I am looking for the Department of Social Services: Pennsylvania is unique from most states, in that they are a Commonwealth. Part of this Commonwealth structure means that many services are implemented at a county level, rather than a state level. In Pennsylvania, social services are the responsibility of each individual county. The result is that there is no specific, state-run Department of Social Services. York County Human Services encompasses many departments that serve similar roles to a Department of Social Services. Please see our department listing on the main County Human Services page. If you are still unsure of which department is appropriate for your concern, call the Human Services department, Phone Number: 717-771-9347, and we will direct you to the appropriate agency.

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Human Services Department

1. I am looking for the Welfare Office / Assistance Office / County Assistance Office: This office is actually a state entity that is operated in each county in Pennsylvania. For a listing of all of the County Assistance Offices in the state, with contact information, click here. For York County's Assistance Office, call Phone Number: 717-771-1100, or, Phone Number: 800-991-0929. The Assistance Office provides help with: financial, housing, employment, food stamps, energy, etc.

2. I am looking for the Department of Social Services: Pennsylvania is unique from most states, in that they are a Commonwealth. Part of this Commonwealth structure means that many services are implemented at a county level, rather than a state level. In Pennsylvania, social services are the responsibility of each individual county. The result is that there is no specific, state-run Department of Social Services. York County Human Services encompasses many departments that serve similar roles to a Department of Social Services. Please see our department listing on the main County Human Services page. If you are still unsure of which department is appropriate for your concern, call the Human Services department, Phone Number: 717-771-9347, and we will direct you to the appropriate agency.

3. I was kicked out of my home and have no place to go. Who can I call?: York County's provider network contains several shelters that may be able to assist you, as well as several long-term housing options. PA 2-1-1 can assist you in locating shelters. Just call 2-1-1 from any phone. Bell's Next Door program and Case Management may also be able to assist you. Their number is Phone Number: 717-845-7176.

4. How do I report Child Abuse?: You can call the local York County Children, Youth and Family Services Office, at Phone Number: 717-846-8496, or you can contact ChildLine, 24 hours a day, at Phone Number: 800-932-0313.

5. Where can I get assistance in paying my heating bill?: There are several community agencies that assist with heating and energy concerns. The largest program is LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) which is currently implemented through the York County Assistance Office. You can contact them at Phone Number: 717-771-1100, or, Phone Number: 800-991-0929. For other community agencies providing energy programs, as well as tips and other energy assistance information, click here to review LIHEAP information and resources.

6. Where can I get food assistance?: The York County Assistance Office runs the food stamp program. Their contact information is Phone Number: 717-771-1100, or, Phone Number: 800-991-0929. York County also provides several food pantries, located across the county. To locate the pantry closest to your home, please contact the Food Pantry Clearinghouse at Phone Number: 717-846-8899, or, PA 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone.