The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) has partnered with the United Way Association of South Carolina to launch a new texting feature that conveniently connects families and individuals to DSS resources through mobile devices.

DSS is using the United Way’s 211 service, which is an automated texting platform, to meet users where they are and in need of help. Users will be able to connect with information such as foster care support and public adoption services quickly and efficiently. The service was made possible by support from Duke Energy to the United Way Association of South Carolina to provide the community with a modern platform connecting them with local, verified, and trusted resources.

To access the service, the mobile device user simply needs to text “DSS” to 211211 and a menu of options will appear. Information on services including foster care, kinship care, adoption, child care, child support, adult advocacy, SNAP/TANF, and reporting suspected abuse/neglect will all appear. Upon making a choice, 211 will respond with a list of resources within seconds, making it easier for individuals and families to find what they are seeking quickly and clearly. This service is also available in Spanish.

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