Navigating life as a single mother comes with many challenges, from securing stable housing to accessing child care and healthcare. In Allegheny County, the Department of Human Services (DHS) plays a critical role in providing resources and support for families in need. This year, DHS Director Erin Dalton will lead a series of informative sessions to update residents on key initiatives and offer a platform for engagement.

As a single mother, your voice is essential in shaping the future of human services. By participating in these discussions, you not only gain valuable insights into available programs but also advocate for policies and programs that directly impact you and your children. Here’s why your involvement matters and how you can make a difference. Click here to register. 

Why Single Mothers Should Engage in Human Services Discussions

  1. Access Vital Resources: These sessions will highlight services that can help single mothers, such as housing assistance, childcare subsidies and mental health support.
  2. Influence Policies and Programs: Your experiences and feedback can inform policymakers about what works and what doesn’t, leading to improvements in service delivery.
  3. Build a Support Network: Engaging with other single mothers and community leaders creates connections that can provide additional support and advocacy opportunities.
  4. Empower Through Knowledge: Understanding the available programs allows you to make informed decisions that best serve your family’s needs.

How You Can Advocate for Yourself and Your Family

  • Attend the Upcoming DHS Sessions: These virtual events offer a direct line to decision-makers and a platform to voice concerns.
  • Ask Questions and Share Your Story: The live Q&A sessions allow you to highlight challenges and suggest improvements. If you’re unable to ask your questions live, you can email them to us at hello@singlemomdefined.com or share them with us on social media.
  • Connect with Advocacy Groups:  Organizations focused on single mothers and family wellbeing can amplify your voice.
  • Stay Informed and Engage Year-Round:  Follow DHS updates and participate in ongoing discussions about policy and services.

DHS Virtual Sessions: Key Topics and Dates

1. Addressing Housing & Homelessness
Monday, March 10 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
Topics: Preventing homelessness, landlord mediation, emergency shelters, winter shelters, street outreach, and housing services.

2. Strengthening Family & Community Supports
Monday, March 17 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
Topics: Reducing family expenses, Child Care Works subsidy, Allegheny Go, Hello Baby, Family Centers, home visiting services, and out-of-school time programs.

3. Promoting Public Safety & Justice
Monday, March 24 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
Topics: Community violence prevention, intimate partner violence programs, crisis response, reentry services, and alternative justice initiatives.

4. Innovations in Behavioral Health
Monday, April 7 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
Topics: Connect Protect Recover campaign, opioid settlement funds, mental health housing, informal mental health support, and medical-assisted treatment.

Make Your Voice Heard

Single mothers are a vital part of the community, and their insights are crucial to shaping effective human services. By participating in these DHS sessions, you can help ensure that policies and programs reflect the real needs of families in Allegheny County. Don’t miss this opportunity to advocate for yourself and your children—your voice matters!

Register today to join the conversation and make an impact!