NASHVILLE‑The Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) announces the availability of funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the 2012 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).  This program is intended to assure that children and individuals with disabilities, who rely on free and reduced price meals during the school year, have access to nutritious meals during the summer.  DHS needs partners, especially in underserved areas, to help meet these needs.  New sponsors are invited to partner with this initiative.

Cabinet to create comprehensive strategy focused on Tennessee children’s well-being

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and First Lady Crissy Haslam today announced the governor will issue an executive order refocusing and restructuring the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet, which they will co-chair.

This makes the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet the only one in the country co-chaired by both a governor and the spouse, according to the National Forum for Youth Investment, and the group through collaboration and cooperation will create a comprehensive strategy focused on issues such as children’s physical and mental health, education, safety and overall well-being.

Events Across The State Highlight Abilities of People With Disabilities

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam is designating October as Disability Employment Awareness Month to generate awareness about the talents and abilities of Tennessee citizens with disabilities.

“Profit by Investing in Workers with Disabilities” is the theme of the 2011 National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The theme calls attention to a potentially untapped personnel resource in Tennessee and across the country – persons with disabilities.

DHS Commissioner Delivers Commencement Address, Aug. 26, To Graduating Class

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Rehabilitation Center in Smyrna, Tenn., will honor more than six dozen graduates – students that have gained new skills to help them work jobs ranging from commercial cleaning and auto maintenance to business education and food service/hospitality -- during its summer commencement program on Friday, August 26.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Start Date Aligned

With Federal Fiscal Year

NASHVILLE – The Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced that program funds offered through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will now be awarded annually to coincide with the federal fiscal year moving from July 1 to October 1.

Capitol To Be Illuminated In Purple; Proclamation Launches State Efforts

NASHVILLE -- Since 2006, when purple was chosen as the “awareness color” for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), Tennessee -- which acknowledges the annual effort through a series of events statewide -- has played its part in “lighting the way” to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of elderly and vulnerable adults. This year is no exception.