What to expect during your visit.
When you visit…
Each visitor receives a unique number after checking in. When your number is posted on the monitor, go to the area indicated on the monitor. Please be available when your number is posted.
Will I receive any assistance today?
If one or more of the following apply, you will be evaluated for assistance today:
- You are homeless;
- You have little or no food;
- You have been served by your landlord with a legal eviction notice;
- Your utilities are shut off or you have received a shut–off notice;
- During the heating season you are out of fuel or have less than a 10 day supply; and/or
- You or someone in your family has been abused by another member of your family;
A Dutchess County Community and Family Service worker will be able to determine if you qualify for additional services.
Your rights…
As a recipient of services from the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS), you have the following rights:
- You have the right to apply for available services regardless of your age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religious or political affiliation, physical or mental disability, or infectious disease.
- You have the right to be provided with respectful and competent professional service.
- You have the right to be provided with accurate and current information concerning the services or the benefits you are seeking.
- You have the right to be provided services in an environment that affords protection from harm and that provides appropriate privacy.
- You have the right to the confidentiality of your records. DCFS will never release your records without your consent unless otherwise required by law.
- You have the right to request that a translator assist you.
- You have the right to receive services within the New York State prescribed timeframes.
- You have the right to disagree with a decision and can request a conference or a fair hearing. All requests will be conducted in an impartial manner.
Time frame in which determinations are made:
- Cash assistance and medical assistance within 30 to 45 days after submitting an application (30-90 days for nursing home applications);
- Assistance with food, child care, HEAP range from 30 to 45 days after a completed application;
- Adult and children service programs will generally be determined by the particular need and issue
Your responsibilities…
As a recipient of services from the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS), you have the following responsibilities:
- You have the responsibility to provide DCFS with current and accurate information.
- You have the responsibility to conduct yourself in a respectful manner.
- You have the responsibility to avoid the use of any violent or threatening behavior or language. If such behavior or language is used, DCFS reserves the right to refuse you service and/or to seek your immediate removal from the premises.
- You have the responsibility to keep any scheduled appointments that have been made for you, and to notify your worker if you are unable to keep a scheduled appointment.
- You have the responsibility to notify DCFS of any changes in your status and /or circumstances.
If you wish to file a complaint…
These forms are available.
