The Maricopa County Department of Human Resources Services has once again received 20 Meritorious Service Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its work to support vulnerable residents in the nation’s fourth-most populous county.

“I congratulate the Department of Personnel Services on receiving 20 Merit Awards in recognition of their efforts in providing assistance to low-income and underserved communities,” said Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers, District 1. “These awards demonstrate the County's commitment to providing equitable, innovative and fiscally responsible solutions through partnerships with public agencies, private organizations and nonprofits — valuable collaborative efforts that improve the quality of life throughout Maricopa County.”

NACo recognizes innovative county government programs in 18 categories covering a range of county responsibilities: The Maricopa County Department of Human Services was recognized for valuable efforts such as the expansion and renovation of Buckeye's Senior Center Kitchen, county-city collaboration to address homelessness, expansion of emergency shelters for families, Maricopa County-city partnership to prevent heatstroke deaths, and more than a dozen other initiatives.

“It is an honor to be recognized by NACo each year for our work supporting Maricopa County residents,” said Jason Matthews, Interim Human Resources Director for Maricopa County. “Human Resources serves people of all ages and backgrounds, with an emphasis on those who need our help the most. This is meaningful work that has a positive and measurable impact on our community. To see the work of Human Resources being recognized in program after program on a national level is truly gratifying and a testament to our incredible staff.”

NACo has been presenting Merit Awards recognizing outstanding programs and services in county government since 1970. Across Maricopa County, NACo presented 75 Merit Awards to a total of 22 departments, elected offices and courts, the most awards the county has ever received.

For more information about the achievement awards received by Maricopa County Human Services, visit Maricopa.gov/HSDCases.

About Maricopa County Human Services

Maricopa County Human Services Department (HSD) promotes the well-being of county residents facing hardship through a variety of programs and services that build community resilience and help people and families thrive. These opportunities include early childhood education, housing, homeownership, independent living services for seniors and adults with disabilities, career development for job seekers with barriers to employment, emergency rental and utility assistance, and support for homeless people. HSD is committed to providing innovative, equitable, inclusive and comprehensive services with a collaborative approach that preserves dignity, promotes respect, and advances social and economic mobility. To learn more about financial, educational, and support resources available to Maricopa County residents, visit Maricopa.gov/HSD.