The 5 Essential Services Of DPSS Long Beach At 1500 Hughes Way You Need To Know In 2025
The Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) in Long Beach is the primary gateway for Los Angeles County residents seeking vital public assistance programs, serving as an indispensable resource for food, healthcare, and financial aid. As of December 19, 2025, the Long Beach DPSS office continues to be a central hub for the community, providing access to a wide array of support services designed to promote self-sufficiency and well-being for families, seniors, and individuals.
The agency’s core mission is to administer state and federally mandated programs, ensuring that eligible residents receive timely benefits. The information below provides the most current details regarding the main Long Beach location, critical programs, and recent operational updates, including important news about new EBT cards and potential benefit delays.
The Central Hub: DPSS Long Beach Office and Contact Information
The DPSS for the Long Beach area operates primarily out of one major facility that houses multiple specialized offices, making it a comprehensive center for various services. Understanding which office to approach is key to a smooth application and service experience.
- Agency Name: Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS)
- Main Long Beach Address: 1500 Hughes Way, Long Beach, CA 90810
- General Phone Number: (877) 597-4777 (Customer Service Center)
- Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Hours may vary by specific program or office)
- Official Website: my.dpss.lacounty.gov
The 1500 Hughes Way location is home to several distinct DPSS offices, each specializing in different program areas, ensuring targeted assistance. These include the South Special - 07 office, the South Family - 31 office, and the GAIN Region V South County Main - V office. Applicants can apply for various programs in person at any DPSS District Office or via the online portal, BenefitsCal.
The 5 Pillars of DPSS Long Beach: Key Assistance Programs
DPSS Long Beach administers the major public assistance programs for Los Angeles County. These programs are often referred to as the "Big Three" but also include critical employment and cash aid services. Understanding the scope of these programs is the first step toward accessing the help you need.
1. CalFresh (Food & Nutrition Assistance)
CalFresh is California’s name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It provides monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to help low-income individuals and families purchase healthy food. The South Special - 07 office at the Long Beach location is a primary point of contact for CalFresh applications and case management.
- Eligibility: Based on household size, income, and resources.
- Benefit Delivery: Benefits are loaded onto a personalized EBT card, which functions like a debit card at grocery stores and farmers' markets.
2. Medi-Cal (Health Care)
Medi-Cal is California’s version of the federal Medicaid program, offering free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Californians, including low-income adults, children, seniors, and persons with disabilities. DPSS in Long Beach processes applications and manages eligibility for residents in the area.
- Coverage: Includes doctor visits, hospital care, dental, vision, and mental health services.
- Application: Can be applied for concurrently with CalFresh or CalWORKs, or separately.
3. CalWORKs (Cash Assistance and Employment Services)
The California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program provides temporary cash aid and employment-focused services to families with minor children. The goal is to help families achieve long-term self-sufficiency through work and training.
- Cash Aid: Financial support for basic needs.
- Welfare-to-Work: Mandatory participation in job-related activities, which is managed by the Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) program.
4. GAIN (Greater Avenues for Independence)
The GAIN program is the employment and training component of CalWORKs. The GAIN Region V South County Main office at 1500 Hughes Way is dedicated to helping CalWORKs recipients prepare for and find employment. This program provides essential support services like job search assistance, vocational training, education, and necessary aid for transportation and childcare.
- Services Include: Job search workshops, vocational training, educational opportunities, and assistance with work-related expenses.
5. General Relief (GR)
General Relief (GR) is a county-funded cash assistance program for indigent adults who are not eligible for federal or state assistance programs. This program is critical for the most vulnerable single adults in the Long Beach community. The South Special - 07 office also manages GR cases.
Urgent and Fresh Updates from DPSS Long Beach in 2025
Keeping track of the latest announcements from the Los Angeles County DPSS is crucial for all benefit recipients. Two major updates have recently impacted Long Beach residents.
Latest EBT Card Technology: New Chip Tap Cards
The Los Angeles County DPSS has been actively distributing New EBT Chip Tap Cards to all existing cardholders. This technology aims to enhance security and convenience for recipients. The new cards feature a microchip that allows for "tap-to-pay" transactions, similar to modern credit and debit cards, reducing the risk of card skimming and fraud. Recipients should ensure they have activated their new card immediately upon receipt to avoid any disruption in accessing their CalFresh or CalWORKs benefits.
CalFresh Benefit Delays and Community Response
Long Beach residents who rely on CalFresh (SNAP) have recently faced the possibility of benefit delays, often tied to federal funding issues or government shutdown threats. The City of Long Beach has been working closely with Los Angeles County DPSS to issue verified information and updates to the community. Such delays can affect millions of residents across Los Angeles County, highlighting the necessity of having alternative food resources available. Community partners and food banks often step up during these times to fill the gap.
Beyond the Big Three: Other Essential DPSS and LSI Entities
The scope of the Department of Public Social Services extends far beyond the core financial and health programs. The Long Beach office is equipped to connect residents with a comprehensive network of assistance, significantly increasing its topical authority and utility as a community resource.
The following LSI entities and programs are also managed or referred by DPSS staff:
- START Program: A specialized component of CalWORKs focusing on Substance Abuse Treatment and Recovery.
- Refugee Programs: Assistance for individuals and families who have recently arrived in the U.S. as refugees.
- Homeless Services: Resources and referrals for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including emergency shelter and housing search assistance.
- Domestic Violence Issues: Confidential resources and support for victims of domestic violence.
- Seniors and Persons with Disabilities: Specialized health and financial services tailored to the needs of the elderly and disabled populations.
- Toy Loan Program: A unique community service offering free borrowing of toys for children, promoting educational play.
- In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS): Although managed separately, DPSS often assists with referrals for IHSS, which provides aid to low-income elderly or disabled individuals to remain safely in their homes.
- Customer Service Center (CSC): The main phone line (877) acts as the CSC, providing a crucial remote option for service delivery, case actions, and general inquiries in both English and Spanish.
- BenefitsCal: The online portal for applying for all major benefits, including CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs, serving as a modern alternative to in-person visits.
By offering these diverse programs—from core financial aid to specialized employment training and community resources—DPSS in Long Beach ensures that the most vulnerable populations in the area have a pathway to stability and self-reliance. The agency's commitment to promoting equitable and inclusive access remains a top priority, especially in light of ongoing updates like the new EBT technology and the need to mitigate the impact of potential benefit delays. For the most accurate and personalized information, residents are encouraged to contact the DPSS Customer Service Center or visit the 1500 Hughes Way location during operating hours.
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