Klein Named Director of Adult and Family Services

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has named Patrick Klein the Director of Adult and Family Services (AFS). Klein, currently the Deputy Director of AFS for Region 1, succeeds Jim Struby who retired on November 29.
Beginning December 15, Klein will oversee AFS and the 1,400 employees that administer state and federal social safety net programs across the state. AFS programs include: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Child Care Subsidy; Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); State Supplemental Payment (SSP) for the aged, blind and disabled population; and SoonerCare (Medicaid) eligibility.

“The services AFS delivers assist low-income Oklahomans with meeting their most basic needs while improving their independence, productivity and quality of life,” said Ed Lake, DHS Director. “Patrick brings 27 years of experience working the front lines in these programs as well as managing several county offices in both rural and metropolitan areas of this state. We are excited about his vision for leadership and proud of the passion he demonstrates for the people we serve.”

“AFS employees exemplify the DHS quality standards and they are committed to making a positive difference every day in the lives of the people we serve” said Klein. “I’m honored to be selected for this position of leadership in DHS and I’m excited to continue our focus on improving the lives of Oklahoma families.”

Klein was born and raised in Perry, Oklahoma and began his DHS career in 1990 as a Food Stamp Eligibility worker in Garfield County. He has served DHS in a variety of programs and roles during his tenure including: social services specialist and supervisor; child welfare specialist and supervisor; family support field liaison; assistant area director; and, most recently, Deputy Director of AFS.

Klein is a proud alumnus of Oklahoma State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. He lives in Stillwater with his wife, Jodi, and their 6-year-old daughter.

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Patrick Klein, AFS Director