This petition seeks to go directly to the desk of James Williams, Commissioner of Department of Social Services (VDSS). Don Carey, Chairman of the State Board of Social Services (SBSS). William Boone, and April Morefield, Western Region Representatives that cover Southwest Virginia.

This petition seeks to launch a formal investigation and potentially restructure the local Department of Social Services. I, like countless others in our community, have suffered at the hands of this department's inefficiency and lack of empathy. My family members and I have been repeatedly denied much-needed aid and assistance, solely because our social workers are not doing their jobs in the manner outlined by their department's own policies. 

Countless community voices are echoing these frustrations too, as they find themselves denied access to life-saving public services and programs. This isn't just about botched communications or missed appointments, it's about social workers who display a gross lack of professionalism and empathy. The responsibility they carry is immense - they directly affect the lives of those in need, and their complacency just adds to the suffering.

A review published by the American Public Human Services Association has shown that local social service agencies, operating at maximum effectiveness and with competent workers, can improve the wellbeing of their communities (source: American Public Human Services Association, 2017). We owe it to our community to have such an agency in place. We can no longer endure the inefficiencies and lack of respect we receive from the institution meant to protect us.

It's time for action to ensure that our social services department embodies efficiency, empathy, and respect towards all members of our community. We demand a thorough investigation and appropriate changes to rectify these persisting issues. Please join us in saying enough is enough and sign this petition to demand better from our local Department of Social Services. Sign this petition and help us bring about the change we desperately need.