SCDSS recognizes June as Family Reunification Month

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Department of Social Services is recognizing the month of June as Family Reunification Month to raise awareness and celebrate the work put into strengthening families.

During the month, DSS recognizes families who have successfully reunited by overcoming challenges that required agency involvement.

DSS says this year’s theme which is “Let’s Celebrate Unified Families in June” focuses on the importance of family unity, preventing removals and separations whenever possible.

As of June 3, 568 children and youth have been safely returned to their families so far in 2024.

“Our DSS professionals work tirelessly to keep families together and to bring families back together if they have to be separated due to safety concerns. Helping to strengthen family bonds, connecting families to community resources, and creating a secure and supportive environment for the children helps promote positive outcomes for families,” SCDSS State Director Michael Leach states.

According to DSS, in the calendar year 2023, there were 1,503 children and youth reunited with their families in South Carolina.