Welcome to the Department of Human Services (DHS) website for the City of Oakland.

Our intention is for you to be just a click away from the information or services that you need, be it activities for seniors or youth, transportation or care for a frail elder or disabled adult, transitional housing supports, food programs or volunteer opportunities.

DHS is committed to strengthening children, youth and their families; empowering seniors and people with disabilities; and fostering safe and healthy communities.

Our Early Childhood and Family Services division provides early childhood development and education, family support and young children’s readiness for school through teamwork with parents, staff and community partners. A holistic approach integrates health, nutrition, early literacy, parenting education, adult literacy and mental health service for low-income children and their families.

The Children & Youth Services division develops and supports services that promote the safety, health and enrichment of children and youth. Collaborations with schools, nonprofits, and other public agencies result in new resources and expanded services.

Aging and Adult Services division provides programs for seniors, as well as for adults and persons with disabilities and their families. All programs share the goals of maximizing self-sufficiency, safety, health, active living and independence. Community partners enrich a wide range of services that include care management, employment, training, volunteer opportunities, recreation and transportation assistance.

Community Housing Services recognizes the tremendous need for supports specific to the homeless population. We partner with nonprofits to assist people who are homeless and near-homeless with housing and additional essential services.

We value the diverse views of the community and engage in open, honest communication with our partners. These communications are collaborative and creative, resulting in services and initiatives that address the changing and emerging needs of the community. Our customer contacts provide opportunities to share, learn, grow, recognize one another and celebrate our joint successes. We look forward to hearing from you so we can better serve Oakland residents!

Andrea Youngdahl, Director