Maryland Department of Human Services

06/12/2026

A resource parent provides care, stability, and support while helping children maintain connections with their biological families. As this resource parent reflects, welcoming a child into your family doesn't replace existing relationships — it adds to the network of people who care about them.

During National Reunification Month, we recognize the important relationship between biological and resource parents, and thank them for the vital role they play together in ensuring children receive the love and support they need.

06/12/2026

Protect your benefits: We will never call or text you to ask for your EBT PIN or Social Security number. As we upgrade our systems, stay alert to scams. If you’re unsure or need to report suspected fraud, call (202) 690-1622 or visit www.usda.gov/oig/hotline.htm.

06/11/2026

Summer’s almost here! Wondering when your SUN Bucks will arrive?

1️⃣ WHEN: Benefits will be issued in June, July, and August.
2️⃣ HOW: For those with an EBT card, SUN Bucks will be added automatically at the end of each month.

New to SUN Bucks? Watch for a white "Maryland SUN Bucks" card in the mail. Call 1-800-997-2222 to activate your card when it arrives.

Questions? Visit: dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks

Maryland State Department of Education Maryland Health Connection

06/10/2026

We’re excited to share that our very own Kollin Murphy from the Washington County Department of Social Services received the Mission Advocacy Award at the 71st Annual Horizon Goodwill Power of Work Awards!

Through the Dad's Connection program, Kollin helps fathers overcome challenges, strengthen family relationships, and, as he puts it, “become the dads they want to become.”

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Kollin. Thank you for the impact you make every day for Washington County families.

06/10/2026

Governor Wes Moore recently announced 69 new grants totaling $43 million for Community Solar projects. The affordable clean energy will help lower electricity bills for low-income households.

As part of this initiative, the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) will oversee the distribution of electricity to more than 1,000 additional households receiving energy assistance, helping reduce energy costs for Maryland families.

Learn more: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-43-million-new-community-solar-projects.

06/09/2026

This month, DHS is celebrating FIA Appreciation Month by recognizing employees who make a difference in the lives of Maryland families. Today, we’re spotlighting Nicole Slaughter, a family investment supervisor in the Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services' Glen Burnie office.

Nicole recently received a heartfelt message from a customer whose family was facing possible eviction. As a household of five that included two individuals with disabilities and an elderly family member, the situation was overwhelming.

The customer shared that Nicole “never gave up on helping us find a solution” and that her patience, commitment, and compassion helped the family remain housed during a difficult time.

Stories like this remind us that the Family Investment Administration’s work is about more than programs and benefits. It’s about helping Maryland families find stability when they need it most.

Thank you, Nicole, for your service and commitment.

06/09/2026

EBT cards are being upgraded.

Make sure your mailing address is up to date in the MD Benefits portal so you don’t miss important mail.

Update here: https://benefits.maryland.gov/.

06/08/2026

School may soon be out for the summer, but preparations for the fall are already underway.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services just kicked off its 44th annual Back-to-School Program to help local students get the supplies they need to start the school year ready to learn.

Officials estimate that around 36,000 students may begin the school year without basic classroom essentials like backpacks, notebooks, and pencils.

“By coming together to support our children, we’re investing in more than their success and strengthening the future of our entire community,” says Director Rachael Maconachy.

Learn more about the program and how you can get involved.

Students can't wait to return to school this year. New backpacks, notebooks, and school supplies! Help fuel that excitement by by donating school supplies.

06/08/2026

Safer Stronger Together recently celebrated its second anniversary and expansion with a summer kickoff in Prince George’s County on District Heights Day!

In partnership with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services and the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the initiative continues to invest in young people, strengthen and empower families, and improve public safety.

“This initiative is a commitment to communities that have too often faced the greatest barriers,” said Acting Secretary Stacy L. Rodgers. “It’s a commitment shared across government and community partners to help families navigate some of the many challenges across state programs."

Learn more about the Safer Stronger Together initiative: https://dhs.maryland.gov/safer-stronger-together/.

06/05/2026

June is Family Investment Administration (FIA) Appreciation Month at the Maryland Department of Human Services!

FIA helps connect Marylanders with resources and opportunities that support family stability, economic security, and long-term independence.

Throughout the month, we'll highlight the people and programs that make this work possible.

Happy FIA Appreciation Month!