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Employment & Social Services
The Department of Employment and Social Services (DESS) is committed to collaborating with our many partners to provide a safe, healthy and self-reliant community. At DESS we aim to administer employment and social services to all citizens of Butte County with dignity and respect.
Our Mission
"We administer employment and social services, preserving the dignity of children, families and adults."
Our Vision
"Partnering for a safe, healthy, and self-reliant community."
Benefits & Services
CalFresh (formerly Food Stamps) helps low-income people buy the food they need to remain healthy. To qualify for CalFresh the minimum basic requirement(s) are:
- Identity of Primary Applicant
- Gross non-exempt income
- Non-citizenship Status
- Social Security Number(s)
- Residency
Medical coverage is available, including Medi-Cal, Expanded Medi-Cal, Health Care Reform Options, and the County Medical Services Program (CMSP).
CalWORKs provides temporary financial assistance and employment-related services to needy families with minor children.
General Assistance provides three months of cash assistance to eligible, employable adults and provides longer-term assistance to eligible adults who are temporarily disabled or who are awaiting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) approval.
Adult Services provides services to help the elderly and persons with disabilities to live safely in their own homes. Investigates reports of elder or dependent adult abuse and neglect.
The Children's Services Division investigates child abuse and neglect and works to preserve or restore family stability. Visit the Parent and Guardian Information and Resources page to learn more.
The County Veterans Service Office is an office established by the Butte County Board of Supervisors to assist veterans, their dependents and survivors, and the general public in obtaining benefits from federal, state, and local agencies administering programs for veterans.
Special Needs Awareness Program (SNAP)
Do you need assistance evacuating during an emergency? As part of Butte County's Emergency Evacuation Plan, the Department of Employment and Social Services works collaboratively with multiple agencies to ensure that those in need of evacuation assistance during an emergency are identified and evacuated safely and efficiently. Click here for more information.
ALERT FM Emergency Notification System
Butte County is partnering with Bare on the Ridge, Inc. and ALERT FM to provide ALERT FM devices to individuals that meet program eligibility guidelines and you may be eligible to receive a free ALERT FM receiver if you meet that criteria.
ALERT FM is a device that receives mass notifications in times of crisis or emergency. This device keeps citizens informed when the power, internet and/or cellular networks fail. Free devices are available on a first come, first-served basis for eligible households. Once supplies have been exhausted you may request to be added to a waitlist.
To register for the program please complete the ALERT FM Application (PDF) and submit or call 530-552-6887. Visit the ALERT FM website to learn more.