Annual report, state fiscal year 2023 / Georgia Department of Human Services.

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES | Annual Report | SFY 2023

2 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Letter from DHS Commissioner Candice L. Broce..................... 4
Major Events | SFY 2023............................................................... 6
About the Georgia Department of Human Services.................. 9
Budget Allocation and Funding | SFY 2023..............................................10
About the Division of Aging Services.........................................13
Aging and Disability Resource Connection.................................................................... 14 SFY 2023 Clients Served by Planning and Service Areas............................................. 16 Georgia Memory Net.......................................................................................................... 18 Dementia Care Specialist Program.................................................................................. 19 Senior Community Service Employment Program......................................................20 Georgia Fund for Children & Elderly................................................................................23 Kinship Care..........................................................................................................................23 Adult Protective Services....................................................................................................24 Public Guardianship.............................................................................................................26 Forensic Special Initiatives Unit......................................................................................... 27
About the Division of Child Support Services.......................... 29
Fatherhood Program........................................................................................................... 31 DCSS Awarded SAVES Grant Funding.............................................................................. 31 Parental Accountability Court...........................................................................................32
About the Division of Family and Children Services............... 35
DFCS | Family Independence...................................................................... 36
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.................................................................36 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families......................................................................39 Medical Assistance...............................................................................................................40 Medicaid Redetermination................................................................................................. 41 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program..........................................................42 Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program...................................................42 The Emergency Food Assistance Program....................................................................43 The Commodity Supplemental Food Program.............................................................43
DFCS | Child Welfare.................................................................................... 45
Child Protective Services....................................................................................................45 Foster Care and Adoption Services..................................................................................46 Statewide Foster Parent Recruitment Campaign.......................................................... 47 Foster Parent Celebration and Recruitment with the Atlanta Braves....................... 47 Celebration of Excellence Honors 266 Graduates.......................................................48 Kinship Care..........................................................................................................................49 Afterschool Care Program.................................................................................................49 The Family First Prevention Services Act........................................................................49 Georgia Resilient, Youth-Centered, Stable, and Empowered John H. Chaffee Independent Living Program............................................................................................. 51 Advisory Councils................................................................................................................. 51
DHS Leadership........................................................................... 53
Contacts........................................................................................55
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 3

4 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Letter from Commissioner
Candice L. Broce

I am proud to present the State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2023 Annual Report for the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS). In this report, you will find an overview of DHS' budget allocation and funding, performance highlights, and major events for the state fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2023.
Each and every day, employees across our agency support Governor Brian P. Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp's priorities and initiatives for the state and our mission to strengthen Georgia families. This is done through the important work of thousands of employees in the Division of Aging Services (DAS), the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS), and the Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS).
Everything we do at DHS is guided by our core values: (1) to

provide access to resources that support and empower families; (2) to deliver these services professionally and treat each client with dignity and respect; (3) to effectively and efficiently manage business operations by aligning resources across the agency; (4) to promote accountability, transparency, and quality in all our services and programs; and (5) to develop employees at all levels of DHS.
This report shows the incredible achievements and progress that our teams made over SFY 2023, along with the opportunities we have to improve our programs and services in the future. This year, our teams went above and beyond to serve their fellow Georgians, overcoming and finding innovative solutions to challenges along the way. We

are proud of what we have achieved for Georgians along with DHS' stakeholders, agency partners, and our colleagues under the Gold Dome, and we will continue working together to build stronger families for a stronger Georgia.
Candice L. Broce Commissioner

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 5

Major Events
SEPTEMBER 2022
DHS was provided more than $1 billion to provide one-time cash assistance to qualifying Georgians. Since the program launched, more than 3 million Georgians have received this assistance.

State Fiscal Year 2023

DECEMBER 2022
The Clark's Christmas Kids program provided more than 22,000 gifts for over 7,000 Georgia children in foster care.

MAY 2023
DAS launched its Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) Program to increase dementia education and awareness, build stronger community partnerships, and support care partners to expand skills and resources to support those living with dementia.

JUNE 2023
DFCS partnered with the Atlanta Braves organization to promote foster parent recruitment and celebrate Georgia's foster families at a family day at the park.

AUGUST 2022
DHS, in partnership with the Governor's Office, launched a statewide foster parent recruitment campaign to promote the need for additional foster homes in Georgia.

OCTOBER 2022
DCSS was awarded SAVES demonstration grant to implement comprehensive domestic violence services to survivors who need assistance accessing child support.

MARCH 2023
DCSS was awarded supplemental funding for its SAVES grant.

6 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

MAY 2023
Georgia served as the host state for the Eastern Regional Interstate Child Support Association (ERICSA) Training Conference & Exposition in Savannah. DCSS provided a team of volunteers and conference speakers to welcome over 550 attendees!

JUNE 2023
DFCS honored 266 youth in Georgia's foster care system who recently graduated from high school, vocational school, or college at the 31st annual Celebration of Excellence.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 7

8 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

About DHS
Georgia Department of Human Services
The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) serves more than 2 million Georgians and employs approximately 8,506 people. With an annual budget of $1.93 billion, DHS delivers a wide range of services that protect and enhance the lives of Georgia's most vulnerable residents. DHS comprises three divisions -- the Division of Aging Services (DAS), the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS), and the Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS).
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 9

Budget Allocation and Funding

DHS
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Total Funding: $2,059,861,411
State Funding: $942,295,999
Federal & Other Funding: $1,117,565,412

$1,614,467,683 | Safety & Accountability
$124,745,175 | DCSS $1,486,896,996 | DFCS $2,825,512 | Residential Child Care
Licensing $113,724,810 | Vulnerable Adults (DAS)
$201,486,746 | Attached Entities
$349,652 | Council on Aging $11,100,604 | Family Connection $189,925,904 Georgia Vocational
Rehabilitation Agency $110,586 Safe Harbor for Sexually
Exploited Children Fund Commission
$130,182,172 | Department Administration

DAS
DIVISION OF AGING SERVICES Total Funding: $116,727,275
State Funding: $74,802,181
Federal & Other Funding: $41,925,094
10 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

$83,022,668 Elder Community Living Services
$2,652,813 | Administration
$349,652 | Council on Aging
$30,702,142 Elder Abuse Investigation & Prevention

DCSS
DIVISION OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
Total Funding: $124,745,175

State Fiscal Year 2023

State Funding: $31,674,130
Federal & Other Funding: $93,071,045

$116,919,090 | Child Support Services $7,826,085 | Outreach Services

DFCS
DIVISION OF FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES Total Funding: $1,504,796,461
State Funding: $745,785,228
Federal & Other Funding: $759,011,233

$118,259,246 | Adoptions $9,740,648 | Child Abuse & Neglect $452,621,258 | Child Welfare Services $16,110,137 | Community Services $55,320,027 | Energy $340,372,794 | FEBS $413,578,794 | Out-of-Home Care $19,000,000 | Out-of-School Care $5,035,754 | Refugee Assistance $20,335,330 | SNF - Work Assistance $36,523,008 | SNF - Basic Assistance $17,899,465 | Administration
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 11

12 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

About DAS
Division of Aging Services
The Division of Aging Services (DAS) assists older individuals, at-risk adults, persons with disabilities, their families, and caregivers to achieve safe, healthy, independent, and self-reliant lives. The Division works with its partners around the state to keep people in their homes and communities for as long as they desire, enabling them to function independently and avoid or delay placement in a long-term care facility.
DAS is also responsible for safeguarding vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DAS investigates claims of abuse in the community setting (the Georgia Department of Community Health investigates claims of abuse in care facilities). DAS also provides services to advocate for adults for whom DHS has been appointed as guardian.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 13

Need Assistance to Age in Place?

The ADRC can help Georgians age in place by connecting them with home and communitybased services. Anyone seeking resources to age in place or to support an older adult or individual

living with a disability can call the ADRC's toll-free number at 866-552-4464 to speak with a counselor or visit georgiaadrc.com. Based on individual needs, counselors can provide free, unbiased information

and resources on services available to support the individual and allow him/ her to live in the setting of their choosing.

Aging and Disability Resource Connection

The Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) is a one-stop shop or "no wrong door" entry point staffed with counselors who help older adults and adults with disabilities navigate life changes and find resources to assist them with living a more self-sufficient life. The majority of these services are provided through the statewide network of Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs).
Area Agencies on Aging
Through contracts with the 12 AAAs, DAS supports older adults, adults living with a disability, and their caregivers through a variety of home and communitybased services, as well as other supportive services. AAAs are located across the state and support individuals and caregivers in every county. While specific services vary by region, the core programs in each AAA region are:
Personal Care Assistance Hands-on assistance with bathing, dressing, and similar daily living activities.

Transportation Services Provides rides to and from Senior Centers, medical appointments, and quality of life trips such as shopping and other activities to remain engaged in the community.
Assistive Technology Tools that can help individuals perform everyday tasks, allowing them to remain in their own home or the community setting of their choosing and/or avoid long-term residential care.
Home-Delivered Meals Nutritious meals provided to qualified individuals in their homes.
Congregate Meals Nutritious weekday lunches provided to older adults in a group setting.
Chronic Disease SelfManagement Services that teach individuals with recurring conditions and illnesses how to monitor and care for themselves in a way that maximizes their quality of life.

Respite Care Services that offer a brief period of rest for family caregivers, either in the home or on a short-term basis in institutional settings.
Homemaker Services Services that assist with meal preparation, shopping for personal items, or performing light housework.
Elderly Legal Assistance Program Legal representation, information, and assistance for all civil matters including elder law, housing, elder abuse and neglect, and Supplemental Security Income.
Money Follows the Person and Nursing Home Transitions Programs Assist individuals who reside in long term in-patient facilities with relocating back into a community setting of their choosing, when desired. Money Follows the Person is a federally funded program and Nursing Home Transitions is funded by the state.

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By the Numbers | DAS
81,414
customers and family members received free, unbiased counseling on resources and services specific to their needs
320
vulnerable adults transitioned from nursing homes and in-patient facilities back into their homes and communities through the Money Follows the Person and Nursing Home Transitions programs
$538,592
in out-of-pocket expenses was saved by SHIP Medicare beneficiaries
4,494,356
meals were provided to older or disabled adults through home delivery and congregate settings
38,299
individuals received Home and Community-Based Services

$1,516
is the average individual annual cost to provide Home and Community-Based Services
$79,902
is the average annual cost to provide residential care in a nursing home
$26,623,992
was the value of legal services provided to older Georgians through the Elderly Legal Assistance Program
1,498
clients received assistive technology services
3,039
individuals contacted the ADRC to receive information on assistive technology
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 15

SFY 2023 Clients Served by Planning and Service Areas

Northwest Georgia Atlanta Region Three Rivers Middle Georgia River Valley Southwest Georgia

Georgia Mountains Northeast Georgia Central Savannah River Area
Heart of Georgia Coastal Georgia Southern Georgia

Region

ADRC

Adult Protective Services*

Atlanta

21,139

11,024

Central Savannah River Area

6,979

1,895

Coastal Georgia

3,948

2,122

Georgia Mountains

4,869

2,171

Heart of Georgia

3,359

836

Middle Georgia

5,127

1,589

Northeast Georgia

4,937

1,915

Northwest Georgia

13,236

3,024

River Valley

7,088

1,260

Southern Georgia

5,911

1,394

Southwest Georgia

187

1,268

Three Rivers State DAS/CILs
Unavailable Temporary Emergency Respite Funds (TERF)
Statewide Total

3,617 17
81,414

1,632
5,303 121
30,311

*Adult Protective Services clients served is defined as the number of intakes that met criteria during the fiscal year by Planning and Service Area region.

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Georgia SHIP
5,590 688 739 1,598 428 629 1,111 1,412 483 759 412 1,172
15,021

Home & Community Based Services 10,111 2,420 2,420 4,640 1,571 1,381 2,876 3,783 1,495 2,278 2,121 2,964 38,299

Money Follows the Person 38 8 9 7 9 5 6 12 4 10 9 11 19 147

Nursing Home Transitions 26 23 9 13 14 7 11 11 3 12 6 16 22 173

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 17

Georgia Memory Net

Georgia Memory Net (GMN) is a statewide program developed in partnership with Emory University to expand access to early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and to support those living with dementias and their caregivers.
Additionally, GMN trains physicians to properly screen for dementia and collect data in a manner that will allow the state to better support those living with dementia. Cognitive neurology and neuropsychology leads based in Emory's Cognitive Neurology Program train and continuously work with Memory Assessment Clinics (MACs) to ensure the MAC providers have the tools and training they need to effectively

and accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease and related dementias using evidence-based, clinically-proven tools.
GMN recently completed an expansion, adding three additional brick and mortar MAC locations to its footprint across the state. This brings the number of MAC locations delivering early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias to a total of seven, with existing locations in Atlanta, Albany, Augusta, and Macon, as well as new MAC locations in Gainesville, Savannah, and Vidalia.
Through a collaborative partnership with the Georgia Department of Public Health

(DPH), GMN has expanded to six telehealth locations at DPH clinic locations throughout the state, who provide resources for a virtual assisted diagnostic visit with a GMN provider. These sites overcome significant barriers for patients and families in rural Georgia, including significantly shortening travel distances and providing a strong, reliable broadband connection for patients and families who lack the technology or access to internet in their residence. These GMNDPH telehealth sites include locations in Dooly, Emanuel, Hart, Lamar, Laurens, and Union counties.

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Dementia Care Specialist Program

Funded in FY 2023, the Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) Program provides funding for a DCS at each of our twelve Area Agencies on Aging across the state. The DCS program's mission is to increase dementia education and awareness, build stronger community partnerships, and support care partners to expand skills and resources to support those living with dementia.

To achieve this mission, the DCS Program has three pillars:
1. Creating a dementiacapable aging network through training, education, awareness, and collaboration
2. Creating dementiacapable communities with community outreach and partnerships

3. Supporting people living with dementia and their families
The DCS Program builds on Georgia's efforts to become dementia-capable, and improve access and resources to better support people living with dementia, their caregivers, and their families.

UNION

GAINESVILLE

HART

ATLANTA
MAC Locations
LAMAR
MACON
LAURENS

AUGUSTA
EMANUEL

Did you know?
Medicare
Medicare recipients can receive a free cognitive assessment that measures memory loss and cognitive decline as part of their Annual Wellness Visit. For more information, visit georgiamemorynet.org.

DOOLY

VIDALIA

SAVANNAH

ALBANY

Map Key
City with a MAC location
County with a telehealth site

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 19

Senior Community Service Employment Program

Adults who are 55 or older, unemployed, and looking to re-enter the workforce may qualify for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). Services are available in the majority of Georgia's 159 counties. SCSEP is a program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that serves low-income persons who have a family income of no more than 125 percent of the federal poverty level and have poor employment prospects. Eligible individuals are placed in part-time community service positions with a goal of transitioning to unsubsidized employment. The program serves people whose yearly income meets the DOL guidelines.
Participants' training wages contribute to the local economy and reduce their dependence on public benefits programs. Participants provided a total of 41,112 hours of community service. Twentynine percent of participants were individuals with disabilities. Twenty-one percent were homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Athens Community Council on Aging
To streamline operations of this collaborative program, DAS now contracts with Athens Community Council on Aging as the single entity to administer the SCSEP program statewide.

20 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

By the Numbers | SCSEP
240
people participated in SCSEP in SFY 2023
41,112
hours of community service were provided by participants
21.07%
of SCSEP participants were homeless or at risk of homelessness

23
participants got a full-time job
29.34%
of participants were individuals with disabilities
209
participants provided community service

State Health Insurance Assistance Program
Georgia SHIP offers one-on-one assistance, counseling, and education to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to help them make informed decisions about their care and benefits. Georgia SHIP provides services to support people with limited incomes, Medicare beneficiaries under the age of 65 with disabilities, and individuals who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Certified counselors are available to help answer Medicare questions at the Division of Aging Services 1-866-552-4464 (option 4).
In SFY 2023, Georgia SHIP provided Medicare counseling to 15,021 clients.
In SFY 2023, $538,592 in out-ofpocket expenses was saved by SHIP Medicare beneficiaries.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 21

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Kinship Care
Through kinship support groups, DAS provides education and peer support for grandparents and relative caregivers raising children by focusing on positive parenting, effective discipline, and healthy relationships. Other kinship care services include provision of material aid such as school supplies, respite through summer camps, and case management for grandfamilies of children with disabilities.
By the Numbers | Kinship Care
$430,418
was provided to AAAs for kinship care services using federal and state funds
4,026
people attended over 400 AAAsponsored kinship support groups
28
ongoing kinship care support groups were held in six public service areas
Georgia Fund for Children & Elderly
DAS co-administers the Georgia Fund for Children & Elderly with the Georgia Department of Public Health's (DPH) Maternal and Child Health Program Division. DAS receives 50 percent of the fund's donations each year, and those donations are distributed to Area Agencies on Aging for home-delivered meals and senior transportation. The remaining 50 percent is allotted to the DPH to provide grants for programs that serve children and youth with special needs. In SFY 2023, the Georgia Fund for Children & Elderly funded $106,491.12 for programs for the elderly.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 23

Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services (APS) investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older persons or adults with disabilities who do not reside in long-term care facilities. Abuse involves physically harming or distressing an at-risk adult or depriving an individual of his/her basic needs, such as not providing necessary medications or withholding food.
APS case managers work with victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation to employ the least restrictive intervention for adults who are in need of support and have the capacity to engage in decisions about their well-being.

By the Numbers | APS
13,368
cases were substantiated, meaning alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation was confirmed
39,700
number of reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation
184
budgeted APS case manager positions

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SFY 2023 Top 5 Reasons for APS Reports
FINANCIAL ABUSE OR EXPLOITATION
Improperly or illegally using a person's resources for the benefit of another person. 12,780 reports
SELF-NEGLECT
Depriving oneself of necessities such as food, water, or medication. Consciously putting oneself in harm's way or being unable to handle the needs of day-to-day living, because of medical problems, mental health, or other disabilities. 9,425 reports
NEGLECT
Refusing or failing to provide essential services (food, water, shelter, medical care, etc.) to a person to the degree that it harms or threatens to harm them. 7,046 reports
EMOTIONAL ABUSE
Using tactics, such as harassment, insults, intimidation, isolation or threats that cause mental or emotional anguish. Emotional abuse diminishes the person's sense of identity, dignity, and self-worth. 4,112 reports
PHYSICAL ABUSE
Using physical force to coerce or to inflict bodily harm. It often, but not always, causes physical discomfort, pain, or injury. It may include the willful deprivation of essential services, such as medical care, food, or water. 2,826 reports
To report abuse of an older adult or a person with a disability in the community: Call 1-866-552-4464 (option 3) or visit aging.ga.gov.
To report abuse of an older adult or a person with a disability in long-term care facilities: Call the Georgia Department of Community Health at 404-657-5700. In case of emergency, call 911.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 25

Public Guardianship
On behalf of DHS, the Public Guardianship Office (PGO) serves Georgians who have been deemed by a probate court to be incapable of making or communicating decisions about their health of safety.
After being appointed, PGO case managers advocate for persons under guardianship, act as surrogate decision-makers, and coordinate and monitor all services needed for the support, care, education, health, and welfare of those clients.

By the Numbers | PGO
1,312
number of vulnerable adults DHS has been appointed legal guardian for
42
budgeted PGO case managers

26 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Forensic Special Initiatives Unit

The Forensic Special Initiatives Unit (FSIU), part of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crimes Against Disabled and Elderly (CADE) Task Force, aids the Division and other local, state, and federal partners in their efforts to protect Georgia's at-risk adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
The unit provides technical assistance and case consultations and offers a two-day Certified Adult Crime Tactics Specialist (CACTS) certification course. The course trains professionals to identify and investigate cases of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The CACTS training is open

to primary and secondary responders including:
Law enforcement
Judges and prosecutors
Health care providers and medical services personnel
Employees of financial institutions
Regulatory/social/victim service workers
Other professionals who respond to the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of at-risk adults
The unit also provides training for health care workers known as Facility At-Risk

Crimes Training (FACT). This class is reserved for hospital social workers, case managers, discharge planners, care coordinators, home health, and hospice providers that respond to the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of at-risk adults. The mission of FACT is to help primary and secondary medical and home health providers understand Adult Protective Services and Public Guardianship's role in responding to at-risk adult crime victims in Georgia. Since FACT training began in October 2021, 20 classes have been hosted and 277 people have attended.

By the Numbers | FSIU
336
law enforcement officers, medical staff, prosecutors, and other mandated reporters were trained by FSIU on issues pertaining to the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults in SFY 2023
4,172
people have become CACTS specialists since training began in SFY 2011

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 27

28 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

About DCSS
Division of Child Support Services
The Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) works to increase the consistency of financial support children receive from parents who do not have primary custody. DCSS' services include locating parents; establishing paternity; establishing, monitoring, and enforcing fair support orders; increasing health care coverage for children; and removing barriers to payment. In efforts to build stronger families, DCSS helps noncustodial parents find jobs that pay above minimum wage by connecting them with resources that help them meet their court-ordered obligation and be positively involved in their children's lives.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 29

By the Numbers | Child Support Services
$670,330,718
was distributed to Georgia's children and families by DCSS
256,358
parents were under a court order for child support in Georgia, compared to 267,991 in FFY 2022

428,631
children were supported by DCSS services in FY 2023

30 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Fatherhood Program
Noncustodial parents who are having difficulty paying child support may receive services that can help them achieve self-sufficiency and provide for their children to avoid contempt action on their support order.
The Fatherhood program offers assistance in accessing training and employment opportunities. The Fatherhood program also encourages parents to increase emotional, parental, and financial involvement in the lives of their children. Services include:
Driver's license reinstatement
General Education Development (GED) enrollment
Job training
Job search/placement
Volunteer work opportunities
Review and modification of support order

By the Numbers | Fatherhood Program
4,414
parents enrolled in the Fatherhood program in SFY 2023
927
noncustodial parents were referred to GED and short-term job training programs
9,026
children received increased support from parents who enrolled in the Fatherhood program
$5,536,704
was collected from Fatherhood participants in SFY 2023

DCSS Awarded SAVES Grant Funding

During SFY 2023, DCSS received a five-year Safe Access for Victims' Economic Security (SAVES) grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Child Support Services (OCSS). In addition to the original annual award of $313,873, DCSS received two supplemental funding awards. The first award provided the DCSS with $385,500 to further extend the reach of the project's goals. Shortly thereafter, OCSS granted DCSS

another award of $210,000. The original award combined with the supplemental funding grants provided a total of $909,373 to Georgia for year one.
SAVES is a new national demonstration model designed to develop, evaluate, and implement best practices to provide safe access to child support and parenting time services. As a SAVES grantee, Georgia DCSS becomes one of 13 state child

support programs to execute comprehensive domestic violence services to survivors who need assistance accessing child support.
For more information about the SAVES grant and its impact on the safety of domestic violence victims in the child support program, visit the OCSS website at acf.hhs.gov/css.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 31

Parental Accountability Court

Incarceration for nonpayment of support can be counterproductive, as it prevents parents from accessing employment. Ultimately, this results in parents falling further behind on court-ordered child support. In 2009, DCSS and the superior court judges established Georgia's first Parental Accountability Court (PAC). At the end of SFY 2023, 44 judicial circuits were offering the program as an alternative to incarceration.
The program assists chronic nonpayers of child support with

meeting their financial obligations through judicial oversight, parent accountability, employment, and education. During SFY 2023, the PAC program held 88 graduations for participants who successfully completed the program.
On June 7, 2023, the Macon Judicial Circuit PAC program held a graduation ceremony to honor nine graduates. During the ceremony, an award was presented to the judges for the success of their program reaching over $1 million in collections.

Services offered through the PAC program include:
Substance abuse treatment Job assistance and
placement Short-term training Coaching and mentoring Educational services Employment training

PAC Coordinator Miranda Fordyce and Judge Mark B. Beberman present a certificate of completion to a graduate of the PAC program.
32 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

From left to right: Former PAC Program Manager Wende Parker, Former PAC Coordinator Steve Giglio, PAC Supervisor Latoria Williams, Judge Mark B. Beberman, Judge Philip T. Raymond III, Region 4 Manager Jamie Sorrow, Deputy Director of Operations Kristi Stone

By the Numbers | PAC
1,826
children received increased support from parents who participated in the PAC program, compared to 1,804 in SFY 2022
$1,251,598
in financial support was collected from parents who participated in the PAC program
7,055
participants received services through PACs across the state since the beginning of the program in 2009, avoiding incarceration and saving taxpayers the cost of incarceration

821
noncustodial parents received help on their journey to lead more self-sufficient lives as part of their enrollment in the PAC program in SFY 2023
244
parents graduated from the PAC program, providing support to children who previously received partial or no support
$28,799.789
was collected in child support payments because of the success of noncustodial parents in the PAC program, an increase of $4,931,184 from the previous year
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 33

34 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

About DFCS
Division of Family & Children Services
The Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) investigates reports of child abuse and neglect; finds foster and adoptive homes for abused and neglected children; determines eligibility for and administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) programs; helps out-of-work parents get back on their feet; and provides numerous support services and innovative programs to help families in need.
During the summer and through the fall of 2022, DFCS resumed front desk operations at local county offices. Staffing county offices and expanding hours has been a key agency priority ahead of the Medicaid redetermination. As of publication, all lobbies are open three, four, or five days a week.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 35

DFCS | Family Independence

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income families pay for the cost of food. SNAP also provides recipients the opportunity to improve their economic standing with job skills training and other support.
SNAP Works
The SNAP Employment and Training Program, also known as SNAP Works, is a voluntary

workforce development program designed to help SNAP recipients who are unemployed or underemployed with job placement assistance, thereby reducing and/or eliminating their dependency on SNAP. SNAP Works provides SNAP recipients with opportunities to gain skills, training, and experience that will improve their ability to attain employment. The program offers supervised job search, job skills training, GED, and vocational training for

specific jobs and work experience through partnerships with community-based organizations and educational institutions. SNAP Works participants include ablebodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs), single parents, families, refugees, senior citizens, and some individuals with disabilities.

36 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

By the Numbers | SNAP
1,530,412
is the average number of individuals who received SNAP benefits each month
$622
is the average amount of Senior SNAP benefits issued per month in SFY 2023

212,816
individuals received Senior SNAP* benefits in SFY 2023
171,433
is the monthly average number of individuals who received Senior SNAP benefits

448,440
seniors and disabled adults received SNAP benefits

$361
is the average monthly SNAP benefit (including P-SNAP) per household in FFY 2023

277,195
SNAP recipients participated in SNAP Works to improve their economic wellbeing and were not subject to ABAWD work requirements

871,271
children benefited from the SNAP program in SFY 2023

210,644
is the number of able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) who could volunteer to participate in the program to meet federal work requirements

487,839
SNAP recipients were served by the SNAP Works Program in FFY 2023

*The Georgia Senior SNAP program is an elderly simplified application project designed to make it easier for seniors to receive SNAP benefits.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 37

Pandemic Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Pandemic Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (P-TANF) is a program that provides a one-time payment for individuals who were eligible for and correctly received TANF cash assistance. During SFY 2023, DHS distributed nearly $20,000 in P-TANF funds through additional issuances to eligible recipients.
38 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

Adults who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) are required to participate in approved work activities a minimum of 30 hours each week. If the household has a child under age six, the weekly minimum requirement is 20 hours. Children and families exhibiting the greatest need can benefit from the TANF cash assistance program if their parents participate in qualified work activities.
This program is also available to children in the care of relatives. Adults who receive benefits on behalf of a relative child (called

a "child-only case") are not subject to work requirements. Activities that meet TANF work requirements include:
Unsubsidized Employment Full or part-time employment.
Work Experience Work activity performed in return for public assistance that provides an individual with the opportunity to acquire the general skills, knowledge, and work habits necessary to obtain and retain employment.
On-the-Job Training Training given to a paid employee that

By the Numbers | TANF 10,170
is the total number of TANF cases in SFY 2023
487
caregivers, on average, receive TANF support each month and are subject to a work requirement
$260
is the average benefit amount per month
12,404
children, on average, were supported by TANF each month
4,827
is the average number of child-only cases receiving TANF support each month, meaning the caregivers receive assistance on behalf of a child and are not required to participate in work activities

provides knowledge and skills essential to the performance of the job.
Community Service Structured programs and activities for the direct benefit of the community. These programs are limited to projects that serve a useful community purpose in fields such as health, social services, environmental protection, education, urban and rural redevelopment, recreation, public facilities, public safety, and/or child care.
Job Search and Job Preparedness Assistance Act of seeking or obtaining employment, or preparation to seek employment, by undergoing life skills training, substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, or other rehabilitation activities. Treatment or therapy must be deemed necessary by a qualified medical, substance abuse, or mental health professional.
Vocational Training Organized educational programs that are directly related to the preparation of individuals for employment in current or emerging occupations. This activity is countable for up to 12 months.
Job Skills Training Directly Related to Employment Training or education required for employment to advance or adapt to the changing demands of the workplace.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 39

Medical Assistance
The Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids programs provide a safety net for people who may not otherwise have access to health care.
Family Medicaid Low-income families with children under age 19 may qualify for Family Medicaid. These families may qualify at various income levels depending on family size and income. Families who qualify are entitled to the full range of Medicaid covered services including doctors' visits, health checkups, immunizations, dental and vision care.
Aged, Blind, and Disabled Medicaid Program The Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid Program in Georgia serves individuals who are age 65 and older, individuals who are legally blind, and individuals who are disabled, as defined by the Social Security Act. There are 19 different coverage categories known as Classes of Assistance (COA) for the ABD population. An individual's living arrangement, income, marital status, and prior Medicaid eligibility, among other factors, determine the most appropriate COA.
40 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

By the Numbers | Medical Assistance
1,371,040
is the average number of children who received Medicaid (excluding PeachCare for Kids) each month
929,622
is the average number of adults who received medical coverage through Medicaid each month
1,141,313
is the average number of families that received medical coverage through Medicaid each month
208,066
children, on average, received medical coverage through PeachCare for Kids each month
1,565,359
Medical Assistance applications were processed in SFY 2023

Medicaid Redetermination is Here

During the pandemic, the federal government declared a public health emergency, allowing Georgia Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids members to remain enrolled without redetermining their eligibility for benefits.
But now, based on changes at the federal level, Georgia is required to redetermine

eligibility for approximately 2.7 million Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids members over the course of a 14-month window, from April 2023 through May 2024.
Since September 2022, DHS, the Georgia Department of Community Health, and our partners have been working to notify, educate, and mobilize Georgia's Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids members through "Stay Informed. Stay Covered." a statewide public information campaign.

The campaign includes TV and radio ads in English and Spanish, social media outreach, digital advertising, bus shelter signage, billboards, media outreach, regular community briefings and engagement, informational videos, a website with critical information, and resources in seven languages. Providers and care management organizations play a critical role in helping Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids members navigate the redetermination process, so the state is also working with them to get the word out directly to members.
Visit staycovered.ga.gov to learn more.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 41

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income Georgians with home energy bills to reduce the risk of health and safety issues that occur as a result of disconnection. Qualified individuals may be able to receive energy bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, weatherization, and energy-related minor home repairs. Applications are offered first to homebound individuals, individuals aged 65 and over, and those with lifethreatening circumstances. For more information, call 877-423-4746 or visit dfcs.ga.gov/ services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap.
By the Numbers | LIHEAP 256,764
households received assistance from LIHEAP in SFY 2023
Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program
The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a federally funded program that was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and helps eligible Georgians experiencing a water burden pay their home water bill.
By the Numbers | LIHWAP
46,359
households received assistance from LIWAP in SFY 2023
Did you know?
Waste, Fraud, or Abuse
You can report waste, fraud, or abuse at 1-844-694-2347 or dhs.georgia.gov/dhsoig-fraud-and-abuse-reporting-form.
42 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

The Emergency Food Assistance Program
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low income people in Georgia, including the elderly, by providing them with emergency food and nutrition assistance at no cost.
Under TEFAP, commodity foods are made available to the states by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The states provide the food to local agencies they have selected for distribution to the needy. These agencies are food banks, soup kitchens, and food pantries. TEFAP supports food assistance programs with food banks in all 159 counties.
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a federal program that targets low-income seniors in Georgia, sixty years of age or older, to help supplement their diets by providing them with nutritious commodities and nutrition education information at no cost. CSFP operates in 28 counties through two food banks.

Did you know?
Community Services Block Grant
The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program is a federally-funded program that is administered through a contractual agreement with a statewide network of 20 non-profit Community Action Agencies and four county governments designated as eligible entities. Services and programs are provided to all 159 counties. CSBG funding supports projects that lessen poverty in communities and addresses the needs of low-income individuals including the homeless and elderly. It also provides services and activities focused on employment, education, housing, nutrition, emergency services, and health.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 43

DFCS | Child Welfare

Report child abuse or neglect
Call 1-855-422-4453 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to report child abuse or neglect. In emergencies, or when a child is in imminent danger, you should always call 911.
44 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Child Protective
Services
Child Protective Services (CPS) staff investigate reports of child abuse and neglect and work with caregivers, law enforcement, and judicial partners to ensure the safety of Georgia's most vulnerable children. When an allegation of child abuse or neglect is confirmed, caseworkers partner with families and community organizations to address issues that affect child safety in the home. In most cases, DFCS can work with families to address the safety concern and stabilize the home environment.

By the Numbers | Child Protective Services
30,918
reports of abuse or neglect of children were investigated by CPS staff in SFY 2023
10
is the median* number of cases a CPS worker manages at a time
12,667
children received services without entry into foster care
*Previously, this was reported as an average. Currently, the median figure is used, as it is less likely to be affected by extreme outlying values.

Did you know?
Child Welfare Data

You can find more child welfare data and sort by county at dhs.georgia.gov/division-family-childrenservices-child-welfare.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 45

Foster Care and Adoption Services

When children are victims of abuse or neglect, and DFCS caseworkers determine they cannot remain safely in their homes, DFCS petitions the juvenile court to bring children into foster care to ensure their safety. Foster care is intended

to be a temporary solution for children as the agency works with their families to eliminate the safety issues that required DFCS intervention. The Division's goal is to return children safely to their families as soon as possible, but only after the safety issues have

been resolved. When parents consistently demonstrate that they are unable or unwilling to care for their children, DFCS works with the courts to find loving adoptive homes for them.

By the Numbers | Foster Care and Adoption Services

15,878
children were in foster care at any point during SFY 2023

38%
of children in foster care were placed with a relative in SFY 2023

1,810
is the total number of children eligible for adoption in SFY 2023

18
is the median* caseload for a foster care caseworker

1,296
children were adopted by new families and given permanent homes

*Previously, this was reported as an average. Currently, the median figure is used, as it is less likely to be affected by extreme outlying values.

By the Numbers | Adoption Data
In the past five years, the number of children adopted by loving families and given permanent homes has continued to be successful. Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, the number of adoptions have remained high.
SFY 2018: 1,212 SFY 2021: 1,291
SFY 2019: 1,429 SFY 2022: 1,230
SFY 2020: 1,421 SFY 2023: 1,296
46 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Statewide Foster Parent Recruitment Campaign

In August 2022, DHS announced a statewide foster parent recruitment campaign in partnership with Governor Brian P. Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp. The campaign launched shortly after and ran for several months. Campaign materials

included television, radio, and social media advertisements. "Change their lives. Change yours." was the tagline of the campaign, which produced videos of foster parents and youth formerly in foster care across the state.

The campaign generated a lot of traffic and interest on fostergeorgia.com, and the materials produced during the campaign continue to be used for foster parent recruitment efforts.

Foster Parent Celebration and Recruitment with the Atlanta Braves

This past June, DFCS partnered with the Atlanta Braves organization to host a family day at the park to increase foster parent recruitment and celebrate current foster caregivers.
DFCS was able to provide 20 foster caregivers, who were selected as "Foster Caregivers

of the Year" for 2023, and their families, with free tickets to the game. Many other foster families, agency staff, and providers attended as well to support and celebrate these caregivers.
Foster and adoptive youth also had the opportunity to participate in pre-game activities, which

included standing with players during the national anthem and announcing the start of the game. During the game, the agency was able to promote foster parent recruitment throughout the park through a number of photo and video advertisements.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 47

48 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Celebration of Excellence honors 266 graduates
The Celebration of Excellence is an annual event that highlights and celebrates the academic success of youth in care. This year, DFCS celebrated the 31st annual Celebration of Excellence and honored 266 youth who graduated from high school, vocational school, and college.

Out of School Services Program

The Out of School Services program provides federal funding to non-profit organizations and public agencies who serve youth and families before school, after school, and during school breaks, including summer. It is designed to support DFCS' goal of providing resources and services that promote self-sufficiency

among children and families. During SFY 2023, agencies funded through the Out of School Services program provided Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math-based (STEAM) opportunities which allowed children to learn about 21st century career and educational pathways.

By the Numbers | Out of School Services Program
32,115
youth were served through the Out of School Services program

The Family First Prevention Services Act

DFCS submitted its Title IV-E

training, SHINES, CQI, and

Prevention Plan and began

fiscal management. The team

a phased implementation of

has been working to support

services in early 2023. During

the phase one counties and

phase one of implementation, operationalize Family First

DFCS will offer Multi Systemic requirements to implement the

Therapy (MST) and Functional evidenced-based programs. The

Family Therapy (FFT) in Chatham, Division will use data and staff

Cherokee, Dekalb, and Richmond feedback from phase one to

counties. An implementation

inform planning for subsequent

team was assembled consisting implementation phases,

of subject matter experts in

expanding services statewide

the areas of child welfare

over time.

practice, child welfare policy,

workforce development and

Kinship Care
When a child is not able to safely remain in the care of their biological parents, relatives can step in to provide the stability they need during a difficult time. These arrangements are often called kinship care. Children who remain connected to their family, friends, school, extracurricular activities, and community through these kinship care arrangements fare much better and experience less trauma than children placed in traditional foster care arrangements.
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 49

50 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Georgia Resilient, Youth-Centered, Stable, and Empowered John H. Chafee Independent Living Program

DFCS bolsters children on their path to adulthood through a variety of programs that support their education, their readiness for the job market, and their social well-being. The Georgia Resilient, Youth-Centered, Stable and Empowered (GA RYSE) John H. Chafee Independent Living

Program seeks to bridge the gap between adolescence and adulthood and provide youth who are aging out of foster care with the social, educational, medical, and financial foundation they need to live independently as adults.

Clark's Christmas Kids

For 33 years in a row, DHS has partnered with Clark Howard, WSB Radio, and St. Vincent de Paul for Clark's Christmas Kids. This program provides children in foster care with gifts they want on Christmas morning. This is made possible by generous support of the Governor and First Lady, employees from all Georgia state agencies, and with the help of Georgians shopping for gifts, volunteering their time, and donating funds.
In-person shopping events returned in 2022, giving customers the opportunity to pick a child's wish list and donate their gifts directly at several metro Atlanta Walmart stores. Many of "Santa's helpers" from the Braves Foundation, Clark Howard's team, DHS, St. Vincent de Paul, Walmart, WSB, and more helped organize and pack the presents before sending them to the warehouse.

At the warehouse, volunteers checked each wish list twice to make sure that every child had gifts they asked for from bicycles, games, art supplies, and essentials to tablets, TVs, and video games. When a child's wish list was fulfilled, their gifts were packed up and prepared for distribution to their county DFCS office.
In 2022, Clark's Christmas Kids provided more than 22,000 gifts, making Christmas morning brighter for more than 7,000 children in foster care.

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 51

52 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

DHS Leadership
GOVERNOR
Brian P. Kemp

BOARD OF HUMAN SERVICES

Robertiena Fletcher, Chair

Scott Johnson

Randall P. Smith, Vice Chair

Wes Lewis

Monica Walters, Secretary

Rochard D. White

David Barbee

Jack F. Williams

Lisa Hamilton

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Candice L. Broce, Commissioner Craig Foster, Chief of Staff Chris Apsey, Deputy Chief of Staff Robin Herron, Director, Executive Operations Ann Burris, Deputy Commissioner, Human Resources John Hallman, Deputy Commissioner, Family Independence Mary Havick, Deputy Commissioner, Child Welfare LaMarva Ivory, Deputy Commissioner, External Affairs Sunny Patel, Deputy Commissioner, Operations Regina Quick, General Counsel R. Demetrius Taylor, Deputy Commissioner, Finance Breanna Thomas, Deputy Commissioner, State Programs Sreeji Vijayan, Deputy Commissioner, Information Technology Melissa Barwick, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Finance Brian Pettersson, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Health Law & Policy Jackie Tate, Assistant Deputy Comissioner, External Affairs Julie Walters, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kylie Winton, Director, Communications
SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 53

54 GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Contacts

CUSTOMER CONTACT CENTER
1-877-423-4746 Statewide toll-free number for customers with questions or concerns regarding the Division of Aging Services, Division of Child Support Services, Division of Family & Children Services, or DHS enterprise functions. Email: customerservicedhs@ dhs.ga.gov.
AGING SERVICES
1-866-552-4464 Statewide toll-free number serving older adults and individuals of all ages with disabilities for information and to make reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults. Callers may leave messages 24 hours per day.
OFFICE OF FAMILY INDEPENDENCE
1-877-423-4746 Statewide toll-free number for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and general inquiries.
Family Independence only:

Self service available 24 hours per day. Agents are available 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Reasonable modification: dfcs.georgia.gov/ adasection-504-and-civilrights.
Online form submission: dhs.georgia.gov/dfcsreasonable-modificationsand-communicationassistance-request-formpersons-disabilities.
CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES
1-855-GACHILD (422-4453) Statewide toll-free number for all reports of child abuse and neglect, 24 hours per day, seven days a week Email: cpsintake@dhs.ga.gov. (NOTE: This email is only for mandated reporters.)

DFCS COUNTY OFFICES
To find a DFCS office location and hours of operation, visit dfcs.ga.gov/locations.
ON THE WEB
Department of Human Services: dhs.ga.gov
Division of Aging Services: aging.ga.gov
Division of Child Support Services: childsupport.ga.gov
Division of Family & Children Services: dfcs.ga.gov

ADOPTIONS & FOSTER CARE
1-877-210-KIDS (5437) For information, visit itsmyturnnow.dhs.ga.gov or fostergeorgia.com. Call center hours are MondayThursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: closed

SFY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 55