Introducing the Westmoreland County Department of Community Relations and Prevention (DCRP). The DCRP is committed to improving the quality of life for all residents of the county by providing essential human services. Our programs and services are designed to promote prevention, community education, and outreach, as well as addressing issues such as opioid prevention, communicable disease prevention, homelessness prevention and assistance, and more.

Our goals are:

• To reduce the impact of opioid addiction on individuals, families, and communities.
• To improve the overall health and well-being of residents in the county through education and outreach.
• To prevent the spread of communicable diseases in the community.
• To prevent homelessness and assist individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.

Services and Programs

Our opioid prevention programs are designed to reduce the impact of opioid addiction on individuals, families, and communities. Our services include education, counseling, referral to treatment, and support groups.

Opioid prevention Programs

We work closely with community organizations and partners to provide educational programs and outreach services to help improve the overall health and well-being of residents in the county.

Community Outreach and Education

We provide services and support to help prevent the spread of communicable diseases in the community. Our programs include immunization clinics, disease surveillance, and education.

Communicable Disease Prevention

We offer a range of services to help prevent homelessness and assist individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. Our services include emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing.

Creation of Homeless Advisory Board

Under the Department of Community Relations and Prevention, the DHS has established a Homeless Advisory Board. This board comprises representatives from various community organizations, advocacy groups, and individuals with lived experiences of homelessness. The board’s purpose is to provide valuable insights, guidance, and recommendations on addressing homelessness in our county, with a focus on prevention, intervention, and long-term solutions.

Workforce Development

To address the evolving needs of our community, the DHS will emphasize workforce development initiatives. This includes partnering with local educational institutions, training centers, and businesses to create skill-building programs, internships, and job placement opportunities. By empowering individuals with the necessary skills, the DHS aims to enhance employability and promote economic self-sufficiency.

Community Supportive Services

The DHS is committed to enhancing community supportive services to address a wide range of needs. This includes expanding mental health services, substance abuse programs, and domestic violence support initiatives. The department will collaborate with community partners to ensure comprehensive and accessible services that promote wellbeing, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Transportation

Recognizing transportation as a vital factor in accessing essential services, the DHS will work towards improving transportation options for individuals with limited mobility, low-income households, and seniors. Collaborating with transportation agencies, community partners, and stakeholders, the department will advocate for expanded public transportation services and explore innovative solutions like ride-sharing programs and volunteer-based transportation networks.

Food Insecurity

Tackling food insecurity remains a priority for the DHS. In collaboration with local food banks, farmers’ markets, and community organizations, the department will expand efforts to increase access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations. This will include exploring innovative approaches such as mobile food pantries, community gardens, and nutrition education programs to address the root causes of food insecurity.

Community Capacity Building

Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the DHS has prioritized capacity building initiatives. This includes conducting training programs, workshops, and community engagement events to empower individuals and organizations to actively participate in addressing community challenges. The department seeks to foster a sense of collective responsibility and create sustainable solutions that meet the unique needs of our community.