The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is returning control of child welfare services to the Nash County Department of Social Services, effective today. NCDHHS temporarily assumed leadership in September 2023. Since then, the state and county worked collaboratively to stabilize and improve child welfare services and ensure appropriate standards.
"We worked together to strengthen the county’s ability to deliver child welfare services and ensure the safety and well-being of children and families," said NCDHHS Deputy Secretary of Opportunity and Well-Being Susan Osborne. "The department is grateful for Nash County leadership and the dedicated staff who do this vital work."
"We appreciate the state’s leadership in helping Nash County to better protect children involved in the child welfare system," said Nash County Manager Stacie Shatzer. "Moving forward, we will continue to work closely with NCDHHS to ensure we are meeting state expectations and doing all we can for children and families in our county."
"Our priority is the protection and well-being of children and families," said Denita DeVega, who took over the role of Nash County Director of Social Services in February. "With additional support from the state, our staff now have the tools and training they need to continue providing child welfare services that help to keep children safe."
Consistent with our work in counties across the state, NCDHHS will continue providing regular technical assistance and oversight to the Nash County Department of Social Services. Promoting the health and wellbeing of children and families is a top priority for NCDHHS.
NCDHHS sent a letter to Nash County with more details.