To all DHSS Staff,

Although this week has been challenging due to fierce weather in Anchorage, Mat-Su and Juneau, we have been busy explaining the reorganization to the Legislature and other interested parties.

To all DHSS Staff,

I want to begin this update by expressing my thanks to all Department staff members for their focused attention on the DHSS reorganization announced earlier this week. This is a major event for what will be a department of over 3,200 staff members after all of the transitions are completed over the course of the next 2 years. Your continued focus on this transition will ensure that we stay on target to better serve Alaskans with the best quality health and social services possible.

Mothers' Leaving Welfare Had No Effect on Preschoolers
Slight Improvement Seen for Young Adolescents

Mothers' transition from welfare to employment did not seem to have any negative effects on preschoolers or young adolescents, according to a study by researchers at Northwestern University, Johns Hopkins University, and Boston College.

From: Jim Dalman, Acting Director
We all read yesterday's announcement by Commissioner Gilbertson concerning the major reorganization plan for our Department. Obviously, there are dramatic changes in store as the administration seeks ways to more efficiently deliver services. The part of the plan that has raised the most questions for Division of Public Assistance staff is the movement of the Adult Public Assistance Program to Division of Senior and Disabilities Services.

Below is the news release we are issuing during today's News Conference at 11:30 am. I want to be sure that you hear the news first. I have also attached a chart [PDF] which shows the new organizational structure, to help you determine
internal movements within the Department.