King and Queen Department of Social Services is located in the courthouse area, off Route 14 on the first floor of the Courts and Administrative Building. Google Map

242 Allens Circle
P.O. Box 7
King and Queen Courthouse, VA 23085

Phone: (804) 785-5977 or
(804) 769-5003
Fax: (804) 785-5885 or
(804) 769-5073
Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monday – Friday

Betty Ackley Dougherty
Director of Social Services
betty.dougherty@dss.virginia.gov


Our Mission

People helping people triumph over poverty, abuse, and neglect to shape strong futures for themselves, their families and communities.

The department offers financial and social work programs to assist the children, adults, and families of King and Queen County. Services are provided by King and Queen Department of Social Services without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

The information presented on the King and Queen Department of Social Services web pages are for informational purposes only. Due to legislative enactments and changes in policy and procedures, you must contact us for accurate, up to date information on any particular program.


Management and Staff

Betty Ackley Dougherty, Director of Social Services

  • Linda CookeAssistant Director
  • Brittany LawsonFamily Services Supervisor
  • Kathryn ScottBenefit Programs Supervisor
  • Lisa Lose, Administrative Office Manager

Social Services Advisory Board Members

  • Angie Alley, Chair – Buena Vista District
  • Bette Albert, Vice Chair – St. Stephens Church District
  • Sandra Jones – Stevensville District
  • Alda Norris – Newtown District
  • Aletta Hall– Shanghai District

Social Services Advisory Board meets at 10:00 a.m. every other month in the Courthouse Administration Building’s Hearing Room. Please contact the Social Services Director for additional information at betty.dougherty@dss.virginia.gov or by calling (804) 785-5881.