2021 DPSS Annual Report Online_FINAL

Annual Report 2020/2021

Message from OUR DIRECTOR

Dear Staff, Our 2020–2021 Annual Report gives key snapshots of the one million Riverside County residents DPSS served during the 2020–2021 fiscal year. The stories of resiliency, restoration, and courage we highlighted are testaments to the compassionate around-the-clock service our workforce and partners provide every day to children, seniors, families, and individuals in need. The global COVID-19 pandemic reinforced our critical mission to improve the health, safety, independence, and well-being of our community. In the year ahead, we will continue collaborating with our public partners to strengthen and expand our integrated services and how we provide them. We will maintain our focus on prevention and early intervention, reducing barriers, and increasing resources for vulnerable and impoverished populations. Along with our local and statewide partners we strive to expand access to health insurance, employment training, food assistance, childcare services, and housing support. We plan to further strengthen our system-wide partnerships to effectively provide comprehensive services that empower families to thrive and be self-sufficient. We strongly believe in the power and importance of partnerships to accomplish our mission. Many thanks to all our partners including the Board of Supervisors, Executive Office, and DPSS staff for your collective support and tireless commitment to improving the lives of children and adults in Riverside County.

In partnership, Sayori Baldwin, MPA Assistant County Executive Officer, Riverside County

4