In a momentous event for the Okmulgee community, the new downtown office for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) officially opened its doors with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, June 21. The ceremony, attended by local officials, community partners, and DHS staff, marked the culmination of a two and a half year real estate modernization project aimed at enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of DHS services. The office began serving clients on Monday, June 24.

— Strategic Location to Serve the Community Austin Marshall, Deputy Director for Oklahoma DHS, explained the strategic importance of the new facility. “We wanted to locate our offices closer to other community resources,” Marshall stated. The new office is situated near key community partners, including CREOKS and the Community Action Agency, and even a farmers market that accepts SNAP benefits.

This strategic placement aims to minimize transportation barriers for clients. “We know transportation is a big issue for folks,” Marshall noted. “Here, if you’re somebody we serve in child welfare, CREOKS is right next door. If you need mental health or counseling services, there’s no longer a transportation barrier.”

— A Modern Approach to Real Estate

The relocation is part of a broader real estate modernization initiative launched under the previous administration. With the advent of telework and technological advancements, DHS no longer requires large office spaces. Instead, they are investing in smaller, renovated offices designed to be more family-friendly and welcoming.

Marshall highlighted the transformation: “Our offices are now designed to feel more like somebody’s home than a government office. This includes rooms for supervised visits and family team meetings, all with natural light to create a positive environment.”

— Comprehensive Services Under One Roof The new facility is divided into three main sections: Children and Family Services, Human Services Center, and an administrative wing. This setup ensures that all necessary services are available in one location. Clients can access everything from SNAP benefits and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) to childcare subsidies.

Marshall emphasized the benefits of this consolidated approach. “This is basically a one-stop shop for everything we’re going to be doing in the surrounding counties. It’s more accessible for the people we serve and supports the local downtown community by bringing our staff and clients into the area.”

— Grand Opening and Community Impact Marshall expressed excitement about the new chapter for DHS in Okmulgee.

“We’re investing in the communities we serve, and we’re going to be good neighbors to the downtown community as well.”

As the ceremony concluded, attendees toured the new office, witnessing firsthand the improvements and the commitment to providing a more supportive and accessible environment for all DHS clients.

For more information about the services provided at the new DHS office, visit www.okdhs.org.