Arizona Department of Economic Security

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is the state's principal human services agency, headquartered in Phoenix and operating statewide. With more than 5,000 employees, it is one of the largest state agencies in Arizona, and its programmes reach nearly 3 million individuals and families. The agency's stated purpose is to provide temporary assistance and care to those in need, with the aim of helping Arizonans achieve economic security.

Its work spans a broad set of public services: temporary assistance programmes covering basic needs; nutrition assistance to reduce food insecurity; unemployment insurance supporting the workforce; health care services intended to improve health outcomes; and child care services for families. Additional responsibilities include services for individuals with developmental disabilities, protection and care for ageing populations, refugee resettlement, and support for family caregivers.

DES describes itself as mission-driven, with a focus on reducing poverty, food insecurity and homelessness, and on improving health, safety and quality of life for Arizonans. Staff are distributed across the state, working from the Phoenix headquarters and locations throughout Arizona. The agency operates within the sectors of state government, human services, workforce development, public health, child and family services, and elder care.