Pennsylvania Department of Human Services – Harrisburg, PA

About Pennsylvania Department of Human Services

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) is headquartered in the Health and Welfare Building at 625 Forster Street in the Capitol Complex of Harrisburg. As one of the largest state agencies, DHS is dedicated to assisting Pennsylvanians in leading safe, healthy, and productive lives. The department oversees a vast array of social services and public assistance programs designed to support vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Key Programs and Services

From this headquarters, the DHS manages statewide operations for essential safety-net programs. While direct client services are typically handled at local County Assistance Offices (CAOs), the administrative leadership here oversees:

• Medical Assistance (Medicaid): Providing access to quality healthcare for low-income individuals.
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Ensuring food security for families in need.
• Child Welfare: Managing foster care, adoption, and child protective services through the Office of Children, Youth, and Families.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Coordinating behavioral health services across the commonwealth.
• LIHEAP: Administering grants for home heating assistance.

Facility and Access

The Health and Welfare Building is a primary government office within the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex. Access to the building is restricted to authorized personnel and visitors with appointments. All visitors must pass through security screening and present valid photo identification at the front desk. For individuals seeking to apply for benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, etc.), it is recommended to visit a local County Assistance Office or use the COMPASS online portal rather than the administrative headquarters.

Parking and Transit

Visitors to the DHS headquarters will find metered street parking along Forster and North Streets. Several public parking garages are available nearby, including the South Street Garage and the 7th Street Garage. The location is well-served by public transit, with multiple bus stops surrounding the Capitol Complex.