Department of Health & Welfare
Commonly referred to as 'DHW'.Department of Health & Welfare
General Information
The Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and stability of all residents in the city of Los Santos through a variety of support programs. This includes veteran assistance, employment opportunities, the Haven Homes Project, foster/adoptive care, child protective services, and affordable housing. These initiatives are designed to provide peace, stability, and a comfortable livelihood to everyone. The department aims to offer social support through welfare programs and benefits that address the diverse needs of our community.
Meet Director Taylor
I've been appointed Director of Health and Welfare in mid 2025, following several years in legal, regulatory, and administrative roles across the State of San Andreas. My background centers on public administration and institutional reform, with a strong emphasis on protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring equitable access to services.
My leadership approach is structured, forward-thinking, and community-driven. I believe strong institutions are built on accountability, clear standards, and well-supported personnel -- my thoughts are grounded in the belief that a city’s strength is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable.
In this department, our mission is to protect children, support struggling families, and bring dignity to those facing homelessness. We are working to build a safety net that’s efficient, transparent, and rooted in compassion.
As we move forward, I am committed to expanding social services, increasing inter-agency coordination, and ensuring every resident - no matter their background -- has access to the resources they need to live a stable, healthy life
Key Initiatives
The Department is managed by the Director and the Deputy Director, alongside a few key leadership management positions. It is divided into three main branches: Community Development, Medical Licensing, and Youth Welfare. Each branch works closely together to ensure quality. Community Development focuses on the social and financial issues of individuals. Programs under this branch include the Affordable Housing Program, the Employment Center, Haven Homes, veterans assistance, and the Homeless Shelter. The team also organizes and assists events that benefit the community, promoting engagement and support across all age groups.
Youth Welfare
Youth Welfare is aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable minors in our community. Programs developed under this branch include Child Protective Services, the Foster Care & Adoption Program, and the Second Chance Youth Parole Program. This division is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and families in Los Santos. It also organizes activities that offer exciting opportunities for growth, education, and recreation, ensuring that the youth have access to meaningful experiences and a chance at a better future.
Medical Licensing
Medical Licensing is responsible for overseeing medical practices and practitioners. They maintain a database of officially approved medical practitioners and businesses across the city. Additionally, they approve or revoke private practice medical licenses, manage handicap permits, work alongside the Public Health Regulatory Committee, and track the medical needs and appointments of minors in the Child Protective Services Program. This branch plays an important role in ensuring that the community has access to safe, licensed healthcare services and that private medical professionals adhere to the highest standards of practice.
Community Development
Community Development mainly focuses on addressing the social and economic needs of city residents promoting long term stability and growth. Aimed at providing welfare for those in need of housing or direction. Whether it's workforce assistance or support ones, the division seeks to support every single individual without a lengthy tedious process, but rather focusing on direct hand on hand assistance. Programs under this branch include the Affordable Housing Program, Employment Guidance, and the Community Center Program.