The Contra Costa County Community Services Department (CSD) evolved in the mid-sixties from President Johnson's "War on Poverty" legislation. In 1965, the Department was designated the County Community Action Agency. Since then the Department has been providing a wide array of human services to program eligible individuals and families that enhance their quality of health, education and economic well being.

The Community Services Department is one of 24 Departments in the County of Contra Costa. With an annual budget of over $30 million derived from a combination of federal, state and local sources and approximately 400 employees located at more than 27 service centers, CSD provides a wide array of program and services to over 7,000 County individuals and families each month.