Mission
To strengthen families, assure safety, promote self-sufficiency, and improve the quality of life for all citizens of the city of
Richmond through community engagement.
Vision
Empowering all citizens to attain, regain and sustain a healthy independence
Doris Moseley, Director
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I become a foster parent?
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please call (804)646-KIDS (5437).
How do I apply for benefits?
If you need help with the following benefits, visit one of our three locations, or contact us at 311.
You can also complete the
Virginia Department of Social Services Online Application for Benefits.
How do I report abuse and neglect?
If you suspect abuse or neglect and have concern for a child's safety, please call the 24-hour abuse and neglect hotline at (800)552-7096.
How do I get help with heating and cooling expenses?
Help with heating and cooling expenses is available at certain points during the year. For
more information or to apply for benefits, visit one of our three locations or contact us at 3-1-1.
How do I get in touch with Richmond Comprehensive Services Act (CSA)?
The Richmond Comprehensive Services Act office can be reached by calling 646-7445.
I’ve lost my Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. How do I get a new one?
If an EBT card is lost, stolen or damaged, the cardholder can call the toll free, 24-hour Virginia EBT Customer Service Help Line at
(866)281-2448. After verifying the identity and address of the cardholder, the original card will be deactivated and a new one issued.
If the cardholder’s address has changed, the cardholder must notify RDSS of the address change by calling 311 or their Benefit Program S
pecialist. To obtain a new card in an emergency, contact
Richmond Department of Social Services by calling 311 or visiting a service location.
How do I check the balance available on my EBT card?
To check the balance available on the EBT card to make food purchases, cardholders can call the customer service line at (866)281-2448 and
enter the 16 digits on the front of the card. At the point of purchase, some stores will allow the cardholder to swipe the card, enter the
PIN and check the available balance. Cardholders can also access their balance and transaction history online by selecting
"Virginia" and logging in or creating an account.
Where do I send the information verifying my application for SNAP?
If you were instructed to send additional information for your application, please send copies in an envelope, with the name of your
Benefit Program Specialist, if known, to
900 E. Marshall St.
Richmond, VA 23219
