IMPORTANT NOTICE:
SNAP Benefit Update
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is still running during October 2025. SNAP recipients will receive their October benefits as usual. However, because of the federal government shutdown, Kentucky has been told that November 2025 SNAP benefits may be delayed if the shutdown continues. It is not yet known if November benefits will be loaded on your EBT card on time, or at all, as the shutdown continues.
As soon as the federal government reopens or provides funding, the Cabinet will load benefits to EBT cards as soon as possible.
What you need to know:
- You will still get your October benefits.
- You can keep using any benefits already on your EBT card.
- This issue does not affect your eligibility for SNAP.
- DCBS offices are open and still taking and processing applications.
- This includes benefits from the Simplified Assistance for the Elderly (SAFE) and Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) programs.
You can find food assistance and other resources at kynect.ky.gov/resources.
For the latest updates, visit chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs, check your kynect.ky.gov account, or watch for official DCBS texts or emails.
Last Updated 10/21/2025
DCBS Facebook Page
DCBS Youtube Page
Report Child Abuse/NeglectTo report child abuse and neglect call toll-free any of the numbers listed below.
(877) 597-2331/(877) KYSAFE1
(800) 752-6200
Report Online - non-emergency only
Monitored from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. Reports will not be reviewed during evenings, weekends or state holidays.
Call 911 in case of an emergency
DCBS services are administered through nine service regions and offices serving all 120 Kentucky counties. In addition, DCBS uses a network of contract officials to deliver services, such as child care. Service is enhanced through a close relationship and coordination with community partners.
The department provides family support; child care; child and adult protection; eligibility determinations for Medicaid and food benefits; and administration of an energy cost-assistance program.
The department administers the state foster care and adoption systems and recruits and trains parents to care for the state's children who are waiting for a permanent home.
With offices in every county, the department provides services and programs to enhance the self-sufficiency of families; improve safety and permanency for children and vulnerable adults; and engage families and community partners in a collaborative decision-making process.
The department was formed in the Cabinet for Families and Children in 1998 to give local offices more decision-making authority and the ability to collaborate more effectively with other community service providers.