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Management and Research Services

The Management and Research Services (MRS) Section’s mission is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the services the Department of Public Social Services provides to you. Department research, process assessment, survey and performance recognition activities performed by the MRS team enhance operational practices and influence policy decision making that leads to enhanced customer service.

Management Services Unit

The Management Services (MS) Unit conducts departmental work measurement studies, process assessments and surveys, and coordinates award entries for local, state and national recognition.
These assignments assist the Department:

  • Identify appropriate staffing levels/yardsticks and performance standards;
  • Determine process efficiency and effectiveness;
  • Collect data from internal and external customers to evaluate services and performance, among other things; and
  • Honor Department projects and staff for outstanding outcomes and effort.
Group of people looking at data

Research & Evaluation Operations

The Research and Evaluation Operations (REO) unit oversees all research activities for the Department, including the development of the annual research agenda.  Funded projects facilitate the Department’s participation in federally initiated and funded public assistance research projects with partners all over the nation.  REO also serves as the hub for the development of the Department’s Strategic Plan.

Apply On-Line with BenefitsCal

The easiest and quickest way is to apply onine at BenefitsCal.

Apply By Phone
You can apply by phone. Call the Customer Service Center (CSC) (866) 613-3777 to have an application mailed to you.
Apply In Person
You can apply In person at any Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) District Office or outreach site.
Strategic Plan

The Strategic Plan is a set of goals and objectives used to improve the Department’s workforce, performance, and operations.  The development of our new 2022-2027 Strategic Plan was a collaborative effort that consisted of executives, managers, and staff across the Department as well as external stakeholders.

Embedded in the plan is our new mission and vision:

  • Vision – Transform lives through economic stability, equity, and inclusion.
  • Mission – Together, we connect individuals and families to social services that promote lasting economic mobility and well-being.

It also includes our values: Collaboration, Accountability, Responsiveness and Empathy, that form the acronym CARE.  It is with these values in mind that we will serve the people that come to us for help.

This plan will guide our work over the next five years, with a particular focus as to how we will:

  • Transform our cash assistance and employment programs to be as innovative, proactive, and flexible as possible.
  • Improve services for unhoused individuals and families we serve and those at risk of losing their housing.
  • Address equitable access and underutilization of our programs.
  • Holistically support our seniors and disabled customers.