As used in this subtitle, "State Department" means the State Department of Social Services created under this article.

      "Local units" means the local departments of social services in the counties and in Baltimore City created or continued under the provisions of § 13 of this article, and any amendments thereto or supplements thereof.

      "County" shall be construed to include the City of Baltimore, unless otherwise specified or unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

      "Applicant" means a person who has applied for assistance under this subtitle.

      "Recipient" means a person who is receiving, or who at any time has received, assistance under the terms of this subtitle.

      "Assistance" means money payments to needy individuals under the general public assistance or public assistance to adults programs and payments necessary for services for these individuals.

      "Supplementary services" means services other than money payments to needy individuals, including payments toward funeral expenses of such individuals as provided in this article, and in the case of a recipient without a legal guardian or person legally responsible for his support means the placement of such recipient in a suitable home or institution with the recipient's consent.