Social Services

The Portsmouth Department of Social Services touches the lives of our Citizens by providing quality services that address the health and welfare needs of the community; while promoting self-sufficiency and encouraging all people to be the best they can be.

In accordance with Federal law and U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. 

Applying for Benefits


There are 3 ways citizens can apply for benefits:
  1. Through the Cover Virginia Call Center at 855-242-8282
  2. Through the Customer Portal called CommonHelp on the Virginia CommonHelp website
  3. Through a paper application retrieved at our building or online