The Philadelphia Department of Human Services complies with applicable federal, state, and local civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, religion, or creed.

Along with the Free Library of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, and support from the Managing Director’s Office, DHS works to ensure that all Philadelphians know the benefits of OST programs. DHS funds 170 OST programs which provide safe places for children and youth.

DHS works with Philadelphia Children’s Alliance (PCA) and the Philadelphia Police Special Victims Unit (SVU) and the District Attorney to coordinate services for child victims of sexual abuse. PCA, DHS, and SVU are co-located at 300 East Hunting Park Ave. in Philadelphia. This partnership streamlines investigations so that children only tell their story of sexual abuse once—and do not need to retell the story of abuse multiple times to different professionals.

DHS works with the School District of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Police Department to provide services to youth instead of arrest. This increases their chances of staying in school and reduces the risk of future arrest.  Eligible youth are referred to our Intensive Prevention Services programs.

Shared Safety is Philadelphia’s coordinated response to domestic violence. Led by Women Against Abuse and the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Shared Safety brings together City government representatives and service providers to prevent relationship abuse.

Philadelphia QPI consists of a diverse group of stakeholders, including resource and natural parents, child welfare practitioners, and child advocates. Together, we work as a team to support foster parents and strengthen the foster care system.