Content search

Security Change at Department of Social Services

Published on October 16, 2024

This week the Tompkins County Department of Social Services will be installing an x-ray scanning feature to the existing security screening procedure in the lobby of the Human Services Building (320 W Martin Luther King/State St.
Ithaca).

TC DSS Experiencing Connectivity Issues, Building Remains Open

Published on December 20, 2024

Tompkins County is alerting the community that the Department of Social Services (320 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Street, Ithaca) is currently experiencing a technology outage that is impacting their ability to access case related information and address client needs and concerns. The DSS building remains open to the public and the phones are working; call 607-274-5348.

Social Services To Limit Service due to Tech Replacement on 9/26/2024

Published on September 20, 2024

The Tompkins County Department of Social Services will have reduced services, phone and computer contact on Thursday, September 26th, beginning at 3pm to close of business (4:30pm). This reduced service is due to planned replacement of computer and phone network switches in the Human Services Building.

Highlights of the 2/20/2024 meeting of the Legislature

Published on December 05, 2024

A resolution passed 13-0 (Legislator Mike Sigler (R-Lansing) excused) to designate placement of County departments in downtown facilities as Center of Government plans move forward. Legislator Mike Lane (D-Dryden) reminded the Legislature that while this is a current outline of what is preferred, it may change in the future as the organization changes.

Highlights of the 5/20/25 Tompkins County Legislature Meeting

Published on May 22, 2025

The Legislature recognized Memorial Day in honor of our fallen and late military members. Facilities and Infrastructure Committee Chair Lee Shurtleff (R-Groton, Dryden, Lansing) introduced, and the Legislature unanimously approved, an amendment to resolution 2024-36, updating the placement of departments in downtown facilities as the planning for the Center of Government proceeds.

Medications Drop Box

Published on December 17, 2024

TC Social Services Commissioner Announces Retirement in Summer 2025

Published on January 15, 2025

The Commissioner of Tompkins County Department of Social Services (DSS), Kit Kephart, has announced that she will retire in July of this year, after nearly eight years of dedicated service in that role and 25 years with the Department.

The County will launch a nationwide search for the next Social Services Commissioner and the vacancy will be listed on the County’s Human Resources website.

TCWH Announces Opportunity to Serve on Board of Health

Published on September 04, 2024

The Tompkins County Board of Health (BOH) has an at-large vacancy and invites interested candidates to apply. The Board encourages applications from individuals with diverse perspectives who seek to engage in public health issues impacting our community.

The BOH is a volunteer board that serves as the governing body for the local health department.

Tompkins County Emergency Shelter System Updates

Published on October 18, 2024

Tompkins County is directing anyone in need of shelter or experiencing other emergent needs to access the Department of Social Services at 320 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Street, Ithaca, NY, or by calling (607) 274-5348. The department is managing activities related to sheltering individuals experiencing homelessness, including Temporary Housing Assistance and Code Blue Emergency Shelter. The Depart

Emergency Warming Center & Code Blue Shelter Services Holiday Hours

Published on December 23, 2024

Wintertime Warming Center Services on Christmas Day (Wed. Dec. 25, 2024) & New Year’s Day (Wed. Jan. 1, 2025):

The Department of Social Services (DSS), 320 W. Martin Luther King Jr. St. (Ithaca), will be closed.

Code Blue Emergency Shelter at 300 North Tioga St. (Ithaca) will be open all day (24hrs) on both holidays to serve as both the daytime warming center and emergency overnight shelter.