Human Services

We are dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for all residents of Miami.

The City of Miami’s Department of Human Services (DHS) works to strengthen collaboration between the City Manager’s Office, City of Miami departments, elected officials, and community organizations to improve the delivery of social services for those who live, work, and play in Miami.

What is Human Services?

Human Services focuses on improving the overall quality of life by connecting individuals and families to critical social, economic, and health resources. These services support people in meeting their basic needs, overcoming challenges, and building stronger, more resilient communities.

DHS promotes pathways to prosperity by connecting residents to essential resources and opportunities. Our goal is to foster healthy, thriving communities across the City of Miami.

Human Services Team

The City of Miami’s Department of Human Services (DHS) is led by a dynamic group of individuals that all have a common goal to connect the City of Miami with services and resources. Bringing decades of experience within the public and private sectors, DHS has a dynamic staff that provides a high-level of customer service and extensive knowledge of social services in all City of Miami districts

Administrative Team

David E. Gilbert, Director dgilbert@miamigov.com

Barbara Kubilus, Assistant Director bkubilus@miamigov.com

Sergio Torres, Administrator storres@miamigov.com

Susana Penaranda, Assistant to the Director spenaranda@miamigov.com

Michelle Varas, Administrative Services Manager mvaras@miamigov.com

Michael Roman, Community Partnerships Manager mroman@miamigov.com

Twaquilla Eatman, Community Partnerships Manager teatman@miamigov.com

Madelin Pacheco, Special Projects Assistant mpacheco@miamigov.com

Sofia Perez, Special Projects Assistant SofiaPerez@miamigov.com

Child Learning Centers

The City of Miami Childcare Centers provide affordable, high-quality daycare services to residents, ensuring children thrive in a safe, engaging, and enriching environment. Our qualified and dedicated staff foster early learning, creativity, and social-emotional growth, helping children build the skills they need for a bright future.

Child Learning Centers

Economic Initiatives

The City of Miami’s Economic Initiatives Division, part of the Department of Human Services, empowers residents and small business entrepreneurs by connecting them to resources, tools, and opportunities that enhance economic growth and improve quality of life.

Economic Initiatives

Community Empowerment Initiatives

The City of Miami’s Community Empowerment Initiatives works to address disparities in human and social services, ensuring that every resident has access to essential resources and support. Through targeted programs and partnerships, we strive to create a healthier and thriving community for all.

Community Empowerment Initiatives

Health Initiatives

The City of Miami’s Health Initiatives brings free, essential health services to all districts and communities across the city. Since its launch in 2015, the program has expanded through strategic partnerships, creating innovative, collaborative approaches to delivering health resources where they are needed most.

Health Initiatives

Homeless Assistance

The City of Miami’s Homeless Assistance Program provides outreach, assessments, placements, referrals, and transportation to support homeless individuals and families on their path to stability. The program also employs and trains formerly homeless men and women, empowering them with skills and opportunities for long-term success.

Homeless Assistance

Opportunity Center

The City of Miami’s Opportunity Center connects motivated job seekers with local employment opportunities and career resources. By working closely with both job seekers and employers, the Opportunity Center provides tailored support, training, and programs to strengthen Miami’s workforce and drive economic growth.

Opportunity Center