The Office of Social Services (OSS) is the designated Community Action Agency for East Baton Rouge Parish. OSS's primary function is to minimize conditions associated with poverty in East Baton Rouge Parish. The office endeavors to accomplish this mission through the provision of direct services, referrals, counseling and consumer education. Services are provided primarily on an income eligible basis to indigents, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

The OSS administers several federal grant programs from its administrative office. Community-based services are provided at outreach centers located throughout the parish. Additionally, the staff offers home-based services on an as-need-basis. Considerable funding for OSS comes from the Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) through a grant from the Louisiana Workforce Commission.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Social Services is to work in collaboration with governmental and community agencies to provide a variety of human economic services and activities to low-income individuals and families, thereby increasing opportunities for achieving self sufficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does your office provide?

Commodity Food Program;
CSBG Emergency Assistance – Rent, Utilities and Medicine
Emergency Food Pantry;
FEMA - Emergency Rent / Mortgage Assistance Program;
HOPWA – Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS
Income Tax Service;
LIHEAP – Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program;
Project Care – Emergency Utility Assistance for the Elderly & Disabled;
Ryan White Care Act;
Solid Waste Fee Increase Waiver Program

How do I qualify for the services your agency provides?

Different programs administered by the Office of Social Services have different income guidelines. Please consult each program for eligibility.
 

Where can I apply for  your services?

Services are determined by zip codes See Community Centers.