Statewide Outreach

Statewide Digital Communications Outreach

Molecule-like infographic that says CDSS Outreach

Our Mission

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) outreach team aims to serve and empower recipients of public social service benefits programs, also known as clients, by providing them with up-to-date, critical information in an accessible manner.

How might I receive messages from CDSS

The CDSS will send messages to clients by either recorded voice messages, text/SMS messages, or email messages.

CDSS clients are automatically opted in to receive recorded voice messages. CDSS clients who wish to receive text/SMS or email messages in addition to recorded voice messages may follow the opt-in instructions below.

How to opt in to receive messages

To opt in to receive text messages and/or emails complete this secure form. To learn more about how we manage the information review our SMS policy.

Outreach Principles

The CDSS outreach team collaborates with diverse groups of stakeholders, including clients, advocacy groups, and county workers and their representatives, to ensure that messages are accessible and informative.

  • CDSS is committed to providing updates in various languages in order to meet client needs.
  • CDSS shares messages via different modes in order to meet the needs of diverse adult learners.
  • CDSS creates resources to help support clients in navigating calls-to-action, such as webpages and social media campaigns for each outreach effort.

Types of Outreach

  • Direct client digital communications: The CDSS messages clients via text, email and recorded voice messages--based on client preferences in order to share program updates and other benefits information.
  • Social Media: The CDSS posts information via our multiple social media channels including but not limited to: Facebook and Twitter.
  • Television and Radio ads: The CDSS develops promotional campaigns to air on TV and radio stations and other channels to inform the public about available resources to support families.

How To Get Involved!

As part of our statewide promotional media campaign, the CDSS wants to hear about your experiences and thoughts on CalWORKs! Below are some ways you can get involved now!

  1. CDSS is partnering with Rescue Agency (a public health marketing agency) is currently conducting virtual (over Zoom) 1 hour long interviews. Interviews will be happening from now until December 9th and those who complete an interview will receive a $125 Visa gift card. If you are interested, fill out this Screener Survey to see if you qualify.
  2. CDSS and Rescue are also running a short Online Survey that anyone can take. Anyone who qualifies and completes the Online Survey will receive a $10 Amazon gift card.

If you have questions, feel free to get in touch with the Rescue Agency team at discussiongroup@rescueagency.com.