Annual Report on State TANF and MOE Programs - 2004
Connecticut
(1) Definition of Work Activities The State defines TANF work activities listed at 42 U.S.C. 607 (d) as follows:
Unsubsidized Employment - Work in which wages are paid to assistance recipients solely by the employer without public sector subsidy. Includes assistance recipients’ self-employment.
Subsidized Private Sector Employment - Work in the for-profit or private not-for-profit sector of the economy in which wages are paid to assistance recipients by the employer and another entity, usually through state or federal government assistance. Includes work study and stipends.
Subsidized Public Sector Employment - Work in the government sector of the economy, that is, federal, state or local governmental organizations, in which wages are paid to assistance recipients by the employer and another entity, usually through state or federal government assistance. Includes work study and stipend programs.
Work Experience - Time-limited, paid (at least the State's minimum wage), supervised work activity in the public or private sector which is intended to improve the employability of assistance recipients.
On-the-Job Training (OJT) - Paid and supervised work activity in the public or private sector in which a participating assistance recipient receives training that provides knowledge or skills essential to the full and adequate performance of a specific job.
Job Search and Job Readiness - Supervised group and individual job search activity
for assistance recipients. May include:
• classroom instruction in job search techniques, completing job applications,
interviewing, resumes;
• life skills training, orientation to the world of work, motivational
exercises, family budgeting, etc.;
• job placement and job development;
• job seekers support groups (job clubs).
Vocational Education Training - Formal occupational skills training conducted for assistance recipients in a classroom setting, in a workplace setting, or in some combination of the two.
Community Service - Volunteer activity in community-based programs, the primary goal of which is community enhancement as opposed to improving the employability of assistance recipients.
Child Care for Others Doing Community Service - Provision of child care services by an assistance recipient for an individual performing community service. Care for a dependent child by the second adult in a two-parent TFA household does not count.
Job Skills Training Directly Related to Employment - Any suitable occupational or vocational training provided to assistance recipients that leads to employment.
Education Directly Related to Employment, in the case of assistance recipients without a high school diploma or GED - Preparatory programs in ABE, GED and ESL when not a part of a vocational educational program.
High School / GED - Participation in a high school or GED program in the case of assistance recipients who have not completed high school.
The above definitions exclude services provided to inmates of public institutions.
(2) Description of Transitional Services Provided to Families no Longer Receiving
Assistance due to Employment
a). Post-TFA Jobs First Employment Services
Jobs First Employment Services are available to families engaged in such activities at the time they become ineligible for Temporary Family Assistance, the State’s TANF cash assistance program. Employment services may be provided for up to one year after exiting TFA. Such services include, but are not limited to the following: case management, barrier resolution, employment related education and training, job search skill training, job placement services, support services, retention services, and re-employment services.
b). Transitional Child Care
Families that exit Temporary Family Assistance are also eligible for Transitional Child Care, a CCDF-based component of the State’s Child Care Assistance Program. Such families remain eligible for Transitional Child Care as long as their income remains below 55% of the States’ median income level.
c). Transitionary Rental Assistance
The Transitionary Rental Assistance program (T-RAP) provides up to 12 months
of rental assistance payments to employed families who exhaust 21 months of
time-limited TFA assistance or otherwise leave the TFA program and are working
at least 12 hours per week. The T-RAP subsidy is equal to the difference between
forty percent of the tenant’s monthly income (minus certain allowances),
and the state-set maximum rent, or twenty percent of the family’s gross
monthly income, whichever is greater. A fifty percent of state median income
limit applies.
(3) Description of How State Reduces Assistance Payable to a Family When an
Individual Refuses to Engage in Work Without Good Cause.
Non-exempt individuals (other than minor parents) who refuse or otherwise fail
to engage in work without good cause subject the family receiving Temporary
Family Assistance (TFA) benefits to progressively larger reductions in cash
benefits payable. Such refusal or failure to engage in work includes failure
to satisfactory engage in work activities specified in employment plans, voluntary
quits of employment, and terminations from employment due to willful misconduct.
Reductions in benefits for families who have not yet reached the program’s
21-month time limit are applied as follows:
•a reduction of 25 percent for three months for the first offense ;
•. a reduction of 35 percent for three months for the second offense;
• for the third and any subsequent offenses, discontinuance of the family’s
assistance and ineligibility for at least three months.
For non-exempt individuals who comprise entire assistance units (“assistance units of one,” such as pregnant women with no other children), benefits are discontinued entirely for at least three months irrespective of the offense number.
For families receiving benefits under extension provisions (i.e., beyond the program’s 21-month time limit), the penalty for refusal or failure to engage in work is discontinuance and ineligibility for any future extensions based on good faith effort to obtain and retain employment.
Individuals who are exempt from employment services do not subject the family to the penalties described above. Such individuals include:
• children under 18, unless the child is a minor parent not in school;
•an individual who is incapacitated or of advanced age;
• an individual who is needed in the home because of the incapacity of
another member of the household;
• an individual caring for a child under one year of age, if such child
is not a child covered by the family benefit cap provision;
• a pregnant woman if the physician has indicated that she is unable to
work;
• a women in a six-week post-pregnancy period;
• an individual who is otherwise determined to be unemployable under state
policies.
4) Average Monthly Payments for Child Care Services Made Through Use of Disregards
Not applicable – Connecticut does not pay for child care services through
the use of disregards.
5) Family Violence Option Information
Not applicable – Connecticut has not adopted the Family Violence Option
6) Description of Nonrecurring, Short-Term Benefits
a) Diversion Program
Connecticut operates a Diversion Program to help families remain self-sufficient rather than become dependent on monthly cash assistance. The goal of the program is to provide families with the assistance they need in lump sum payments that removes barriers to employment and self sufficiency.
(i.) Eligibility Criteria
Payments are limited to families who are likely to succeed with short term help; program candidates must be employed or have a job offer, have a solid work history, marketable skills, and barriers that can be removed within a three month period if given Diversion assistance. Financial eligibility criteria for Diversion are identical to those for Temporary Family Assistance (TFA), which are described in Section A, Part I(A) of Connecticut’s TANF State Plan. Families are eligible to receive payments to cover current and anticipated needs, up to three times the amount that they would have received under TFA.
(ii.) Effect on TANF Cash Assistance Eligibility
Families may be eligible for Diversion for up to three months. If a family would be subject to the TFA time-limit, up to three months of time limit are recorded under Diversion. Receipt of Diversion payments makes a family ineligible for TFA for three months, unless the family experiences undue hardship. Undue hardship exits when the family’s circumstances constitute a serious threat to the health, safety or welfare of the family, and are a result of forces outside the family’s control, and the circumstances prevent the family from maintaining or getting a job.
(iii.) Access to Other Program Benefits
Diversion families are served by DSS staff who explore eligibility for Medicaid, Food Stamps, and other programs. Most Diversion families are eligible for Medicaid under the Section 1931 coverage group. Diversion payments are considered non-recurring lump sums for Food Stamp eligibility purposes. Receipt of Diversion also qualifies the family for Transitional Child Care (TCC) benefits, as long as the family also meets all other TCC requirements
b) Emergency Assistance Foster Care Months 1-4
Connecticut provides foster care residential placement services to children
who are in the custody of the State and are at risk of abuse and neglect. These
services are provided up to 120 days and can be claimed because they were claimed
under the State’s Emergency Assistance (EA) program. As per EA program
eligibility criteria, the services must be necessary to meet the needs of the
child. There is no effect on TANF cash assistance for clients that also receive
these services. Clients who receive these services are case managed by Department
of Children and Families staff who help them access any other relevant program
benefits.
(7). Description of Displacement Complaint Procedures
Delivery of TANF employment services is administered by the Connecticut Department of Labor. In this capacity the Department of Labor contracts with several regional Workforce Investment Boards, who in turn contract with local organizations to provide employment services to recipients of ongoing TANF cash assistance (Temporary Family Assistance).
The specific terms of the Labor Department’s contracts with the state's five Workforce Investment Boards requires said boards to administer services in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws, including section 407(f) of the Social Security Act. Contract language also prohibits the contractors and their subcontractors from placing TANF recipients into jobs from which their employees have been laid off and maintain recall rights, and also prohibits termination of employment in order to hire TANF recipients.
The Department of Labor has instructed the Workforce Investment Boards to use complaint resolution procedures established under their Workforce Investment Act (WIA) implementation plans to resolve displacement complaints brought by TANF participants. (The public was given an opportunity to comment on such implementation plans.) Each board must maintain these complaint resolution procedures, which stipulate how individuals can register complaints in each Workforce Investment Board region.
(8) Programs and Activities Directed at 3rd and 4th Statutory Purposes of TANF
Note: some of the programs and activities described below also meet the first and/or second statutory purposes of TANF. Also, some programs are simultaneously directed at statutory purposes 3 and 4.
a) Programs and Activities Directed at Preventing and Reducing Out of Wedlock Births
1. School Readiness – The initiative is designed to ensure that children
from low-income families have access to high-quality early learning experiences
by combining the strengths and resources of the public and private child care
and school systems. Funds are made available to School Readiness Councils in
communities with large numbers of low-income children. The Councils assess community
needs, identify gaps, and allocate funds. Each Council is allocated funds to
increase the number of 3- and 4-year old children served in early care and education
programs and to improve the quality of those services. The Councils are required
to ensure that full-day early childhood care and education services are available
year-round. Additionally, funds are made available on a statewide basis to train
new early childhood teachers.
The policy goal of the program is that 60% of the families must have earnings
less than 75% of the state median income. Also, 60% of the families must be
working full-time.
The program readies children for the school experience. Children who are prepared
for school are more apt to stay in school and avoid early pregnancy and childbearing.
Thus, these services prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births.
2. Teen Pregnancy Prevention -The Department of Social Services funds pregnancy prevention programs that include a component that requires the grantees to work more intensively with at risk teens of both sexes. Programs include components to comprehensively address family issues including health, education and other life issues. These programs work directly to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies in the State.
The Department has contracted with a program evaluator to ascertain which program
methods, or aspects of different programs are most effective. The department
has also contracted with the University of Connecticut Health Center to act
as coordinator of the various teenage pregnancy prevention efforts across the
state. In this capacity, the health center provides technical assistance and
information and works with state agencies to minimize duplicated efforts and
to secure current data.
The department worked with the Department of Public Health to include the collection
of marital status information on birth certificates to allow more accurate data
collection on out-of-wedlock pregnancies. Numerical goals were established in
collaboration with the Connecticut Progress Council to reduce the number of
out-of-wedlock births in the state.
3. Priority School Districts, Extended Hours, Transitional School Districts
- The State Department of Education provides funds to priority school districts
and transitional school districts, the neediest schools in the state, to fund
extended day programs, summer programs, parental involvement programs, drop-out
prevention programs, and alternative programs for students. These services are
offered through extended hours and extended year programs. These programs are
targeted to poor school districts and offers support services outside of basic
education that are designed to foster success and result in enhanced opportunities
for children as they mature into adulthood.
The services offered under these programs are targeted to children of needy
families, although services are provided to all children within the school district
who would benefit by receiving the service. These services also encourage the
formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
4. Youth Services Bureau - The State Department of Education (SDE) grants funds to school districts to support at-risk youth in their communities by addressing issues related to social development, mental health, and physical well-being. The bureaus provide counseling on at-risk behaviors such as out-of-wedlock births. There are no income guidelines for this program.
5. Substance Abuse Services - TANF funding is made available to the Department
of Mental Health and Addiction Services for promotional activities such as “Drugs
Don’t Work” that target children to discourage them from trying
illegal substances. There are no income guidelines for public service campaigns
since it would not be possible to identify the recipients of these services.
However, the entire purpose of the campaign is reasonably calculated to support
the State’s TANF program.
This program serves to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births.
By targeting children with a substance abuse campaign, this program seeks to
help children avoid dependence on substances that can lead to out-of-wedlock
pregnancies.
6. LEAP Program - The Office of Policy and Management (OPM) funds the Leadership, Education, Athletics in Partnership (LEAP) program. This program provides neighborhood-based education and mentoring programs that match low-income children, ages 7 to 14, with high school and college student counselors. The children meet with their mentors after school and during the summer.
7. Neighborhood Youth Centers - The State Office of Policy and Management (OPM) offers competitive grants to priority cities to create and maintain neighborhood youth centers. The grantees must use the funds to provide skill development training, tutoring, parental involvement, and other supportive services. These services take place during after-school hours. There are no income guidelines for this program.
8. Inter-District Cooperative Grants - The State Department of Education (SDE)
funds school districts to offer programs that expand and enrich student’s
educational experience above and beyond basic education and also encourage diversity.
The types of programs funded include after-school and extended year enrichment
programs and mentoring programs. There are no income guidelines for this program.
These services prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births because
they address at-risk behaviors that can lead to out-of-wedlock births.
9. Young Parents Program - The State Department of Education (SDE) provides
funds for programs to help teen parents stay in school. The funds are used to
cover transportation costs for teen parents and their children to and from school
and child-care facilities. The funds are also used to operate parenting education
programs and prevention programs for teens that are at-risk of becoming teen
parents. There are no income guidelines for this program.
These services prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births because
programs that help teens stay in school support this purpose of the TANF program.
10. Safe Learning Grants - The State Department of Education (SDE) funds school districts to develop programs that create safe school environments in which students can learn without fear of harm. The programs target students who have demonstrated at-risk behaviors, establish rules of safety and activities that encourage respect, and decrease early youth at-risk behaviors. The funds can be used to establish after-school enrichment programs that develop crisis and violence prevention policies. There are no income guidelines for this program.
These services prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births by targeting students who have demonstrated at-risk behaviors that can lead to out-of-wedlock births.
11. Grants to Boys and Girls Clubs - The Office of Policy and Management (OPM)
funds the Boys and Girls Clubs to offer support services such as mentoring,
outreach to high-risk girls, increased hours of operation, and other support
services. There are no income guidelines for this program.
This program helps prevent the incidence of out-of-wedlock births by targeting
girls who have demonstrated at-risk behaviors that can lead to out-of-wedlock
pregnancies and by offering after-school activities that keep students occupied
productively.
12. Children and Youth Development Programs - The Office of Policy and Management
(OPM) funds a variety of prevention and early intervention services for Connecticut
youth including a parenting program for teens, a parenting program for adults,
and an after-school mentoring program. There are no income guidelines for this
program.
This program prevents and reduces the incidence of out-of-wedlock births by
providing counseling and guidance on at-risk behaviors that can and have led
to out-of-wedlock pregnancies.
13. Truancy Prevention - The Office of Policy and Management (OPM) funds three
school districts (Hartford, Windham, and Danbury) to provide support services
such as classes on parenting skills, mentoring, coordination and tracking, and
other family support services. There are no income guidelines for this program.
This program helps prevent the incidence of out-of-wedlock births by providing
counseling and other support services to help avoid at-risk behaviors such as
out-of-wedlock pregnancies.
14. Governor’s Prevention Partnership - The Office of Policy and Management
(OPM) offers grants for initiatives to provide training to mentors of at-risk
youth. There are no income guidelines for this program.
This program helps reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births because it
provides training to mentors on how to address and counsel youth against at-risk
behaviors such as out-of-wedlock pregnancies.
15. Violence Reduction Program - The Department of Social Services (DSS) funds the University of Connecticut School of Social Work to administer and provide a violence reduction mediation program in at least two middle schools. The program works with small groups of ten to fifteen students at each school who are at risk of violent behavior or who are known for their violent or aggressive disruptions. The criteria for selection and participation in this program are the exhibition of violent or excessive aggressive behavior in schools and students who are at risk of expulsion because of violent behavior. There are no income guidelines for this program.
This program helps reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births in that it is a program that aims to help students stay in school.
16. Grants for Mental Health Services – The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) provides grants to mental health providers to offer mental health services such as case management, vocational rehabilitation, and crisis intervention. TANF funding is available for appropriate non-medical counseling services (e.g. mental health services, anger management counseling, and other counseling services) to members of families with gross income at or below seventy-five percent of State Median Income.
This program help end the dependence of “needy parents” by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage and reducing barriers to employment and promoting self-sufficiency.
17. Jobs Funnel – The Office of Workforce Development funds the Hartford
Construction Job Initiative (HCJI), part of the Jobs Funnel program, to provide
Hartford city residents with the recruitment, assessment, training, job placement,
and support services for people who want to pursue construction related careers.
The program offers an initial training followed by assistance in finding employment
in apprenticeships and other jobs in the Hartford area.
This program help end the dependence of “needy parents” by promoting
job preparation, work, and marriage and reducing barriers to employment and
promoting self-sufficiency.
18. Medical Assistance for Aliens – Connecticut provides medical assistance to legal aliens who have resided in the state for at least six months prior to the date of application. The eligibility criteria for aliens are the same as they are for citizens
Segregated state MOE funds are used to provide medical benefits to qualified aliens and aliens paroled into the United States for less than one year under section 212(d)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality who do not qualify for federal medical benefits solely due to their alien status. Medical assistance is provided to families with income under 300% of the federal poverty level.
This program help end the dependence of “needy parents” on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.
19. Safety Net Services – Safety Net Services are available to families who have exhausted the 21-month time limit of TFA benefits, are not eligible for an extension due to non-compliance with employment services requirements and have income below the payment standard for the appropriate family size. This program works to 1) minimize the likelihood of harm to the children, 2) stabilize families and assist with access to resources to strengthen parenting skills and protect children and 3) assist families to attain and maintain employment through the identification and amelioration of existing psychological, personal, and structural barriers.
Services provided include the following:
• Home based outreach services during non-traditional hours (early mornings
and weekends)
• Intensive family support services that are based on mutual trust and
respect
• Availability of a regional clinical staff that is bilingual, and available
for in-home or office based clinical assessments, referrals, and follow-up
• Comprehensive, qualitative assessment of family strengths and risk factors
using a unique tool designed for the program
• Family focus and environmental systems approach
This program help end the dependence of “needy parents” on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.
20. Transportation Programs – Connecticut funds programs in each of it’s three regions to assist families in overcoming barriers to employment due to lack of transportation. Each of the region’s programs is designed to meet the needs of the families in their area. Initiatives include new bus routs to target areas with employment opportunities that were previously inaccessible by public transportation; extended hours of bus service to provide transportation for individuals working in the evenings; coordination in Connecticut’s Rideshare Company to provide vans where transportation gaps exist; and providing a guaranteed free ride home for participants in the case of illness or a family emergency. The income limit id 75% of the state’s median income level. These funds may be used as a match for the Federal Job Access and Reverse Commute grant.
The Good News Garage of Connecticut accepts donated vehicles, repairs them and passes them on to recipients of Temporary Family Assistance (TFA). Recipients of vehicles from the Good News Garage are TFA recipients who, without a vehicle, would not be able to obtain or maintain employment because of lack of transportation.
This program help end the dependence of “needy parents” on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.
21. Connecticut Aid to Public College Students Grant Program – The General Assembly appropriates fund annually to the Department of Higher Education to fund the Connecticut Aid to Public College Students Grant Program. The fundamental objective of this program is to provide grants, which are not paid back by the student, that fill a financial need for students trying to pursue a better education and become economically better off. There is a cause and effect relationship between higher education and the ability to obtain a job with a livable wage and the opportunity for advancement. The basis of selection for these grants is financial need, therefore, they are not available to everyone pursuing a post-secondary education.
The grant payments made to independent undergraduate students with at least one child and income level below 75% of the state median income are funded under the TANF program.
This program is in support of the second purpose of the TANF program, which is to end the dependence of “needy parents” by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage.
23. Alternative to Detention Program (ADP) - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Court Support Services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Alternative to Detention Program (ADP). ADPs target juveniles who have been ordered into a Juvenile Detention Center to determine if they meet the criteria for referral to an alternative program. Juveniles chosen for the ADP program are supervised in the form of community-based day programming and short-term residential programs. Both the residential (any residential costs incurred by this program are excluded from the TANF claim) and the non-residential components of the program provide a wide array of services, seven days each week. Programming includes: counseling, substance abuse education and treatment, volunteer service, recreational/physical fitness activities, life skills development, family and peer relationships, anger management, values clarification, problem solving, sexuality, parenting, and accepting responsibility for behaviors. There are no income guidelines for this program. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
24. Community Detention Centers for Girls (CDCs) - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Court Support Services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Community Detention Centers for Girls program (CDCs). The services are provided to female juvenile detainees who are remanded to a physically secure facility pending disposition or placement. The services provided, include: education, medical treatment as necessary, life skills development, substance abuse counseling, and recreational activities. The goal of the services provided is to foster positive behaviors that will help the clients to make better life choices in the future. The costs being claimed under TANF include the T support services that address a client’s risky behaviors, while the residential costs, medical costs and educational costs are excluded from the claim. There are no income guidelines for this program. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
25. Juvenile Justice Centers (JJCs) - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Court Support Services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Juvenile Justice Centers (JJCs). The Juvenile Justice Centers are center-based programs that rely heavily on local community partnerships and agreements to serve juvenile delinquents and their families. The juveniles and their families receive services that include counseling, academic support, recreation, and life skills development. The youth also participate in community service. The length of stay in the program is typically 3 to 6 months and the reporting requirements are 3 to 6 times weekly, including Saturdays and Holidays. The goal of the programming is to foster positive behaviors that will help clients to make better life choices in the future. Educational costs to provide juveniles with a school board approved basic education are excluded from the TANF claim.
The juveniles targeted by this program are those who are at high risk for continued involvement with the juvenile justice system. There are no income guidelines for this program. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
26. Juvenile Supervision and Reporting Centers (JSRCs) - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Court Support Services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Juvenile Supervision and Reporting Centers (JSRCs). This program targets juveniles who would otherwise be committed to the Department of Children and Families for delinquency, but who can be served and supervised through this intensive community-based program. These centers provide day reporting programs, where the youth are required to report for at least 8 to 12 hours per day for anywhere from 6 to 12 months. While at these centers, the youth receive services designed to address their at-risk behaviors, such as: individual and family counseling, substance abuse intervention and treatment, and case management. The youth are also involved in community service and structured recreation. The costs incurred under this program to provide a basic education, as approved by the local school board, are excluded from the program costs claimed under TANF. There are no income guidelines for this program. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
27. Striving Toward Achievement, Renewal and Success program (STARS) - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Court Support Services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Striving Toward Achievement, Renewal and Success program (STARS). This is a gender-specific program for women age 16 and older who have been involved with the criminal justice system. The goal of the STARS program is to help address the issues that have contributed to the destructive, risky behaviors of these women. It is these risky behaviors that can often lead to out-of-wedlock pregnancy (some of the participants already have a child/ren). The program environment is positive, safe, and trusting and helps to foster self-esteem and motivation among the participants in the program with the intention that they will ultimately make better life choices. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
28. Truancy Services - The General Assembly appropriates funds annually to the Judicial Branch to fund Truancy Services programs. These funds are distributed across several juvenile service providers as part of their larger budget amount and the goal of these funds is to support truancy prevention efforts. Truancy is one of the first indicators in negative juvenile behavior. Students who become truant are likely engaged in at-risk behaviors and participating in unsupervised activities that may result in out-of-wedlock pregnancy. There are no income guidelines for this program. There are no income guidelines for this program. This program is utilizes federal TANF funds.
29. Intensive Outreach and Monitoring - The General Assembly has appropriated funds to the Court Support services Division of the Judicial Branch to fund the Intensive Outreach and Monitoring program (IOM). This program serves juveniles who are facing commitment to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) for delinquency, but who can benefit from this home-based service in lieu of commitment. This program provides intensive case management, as the caseworkers are available 24 hours a day, seven days each week. The case managers meet with clients in the context of the family and provide access to community-based services. The goal of the program is to promote positive behavior and avoid risky behaviors.
30. Department of Children and Families Extended Day Treatment Program- The Extended Day Treatment program, operated by the Department of Children and Families, provides case management, counseling, and support services in the community before and after school in order to promote positive behaviors. Services are provided to children who have been returned to their homes or are at home but at risk of placement due to mental health or emotional disturbance. Services are provided daily before and after school, with extended daily service on days or weeks in which school is not in session.
31. Pregnancy Healthline – This program provides referrals to women of childbearing are and pregnant women and families for a range of services such as AIDS/HIV related services, health and safety information, pediatric and family health care, and mental health counseling. This program provides people with access to information and services that can lead to better awareness of health and safety issues, issues that can lead to out-of-wedlock pregnancies or to family pressures that can cause family dissolution.
This program supports the third phase of the TANF program, which is to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and the fourth purpose of the TANF program, which is to promote the formation and maintenance of two-parent families. This program has no income criteria.
The effective date of this program is 10/1/01.
32. Special Population Program – The Special Population Program, operated out of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, was created to serve as a bridge for children leaving the care of the Department of Children and Families who lacked independent living skills and who had mental health issues. The program specifically targets clients who: 1) have pervasive developmental disorders and have demonstrated at-risk behaviors, and 2) have mental health issues and have experienced prior traumas and have demonstrated a history of sexually aggressive behavior. The counseling services provided to these youth will help them address their at-risk behaviors, which in turn, could reduce and prevent the incidence of future out-of-wedlock pregnancies. In addition, it can sometimes be difficult for youth with pervasive developmental disorders to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behaviors, which can lead to out-of-wedlock pregnancies
This program is in support of the third phase of the TANF program, which is to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies. Since this program qualifies for TANF under purpose three, it can be provided to both needy and non-needy families and individuals.
b) Programs and Activities Directed at Formation and Maintenance of Two-Parent Families
1. Family Resource Centers – Operated through the State Department of
Education, these centers are designed to promote comprehensive, integrated,
community-based systems of family support and child development.
Family Resource Centers provide or collaborate with existing agencies to operate
full-time preschool childcare, school-age childcare, families–in-training
(including home visiting and monitoring of child development for new and expectant
parents), adult education, support and training for family daycare providers,
positive youth development services, and resource and referral services.
In addition to encouraging the formation and maintenance of two-parent families,
Family Resource Centers also reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock births.
2. Child Welfare Prevention and Intervention Services - These services are
provided when conditions exist requiring the intervention of the Department
of Children and Families (DCF). These services include substance abuse counseling
and screening of a non-medical nature, 24-hour family preservation counseling
services to families in their homes, investigations of reports of child abuse
and neglect, and community-based prevention and treatment of child abuse. Also
included are services provided with funds from the Children’s Trust Fund
such as parenting programs for first-time parents, Parents Anonymous groups,
and other developmental and support services.
By helping to preserve intact families, these services encourage the formation
and maintenance of two-parent families. They also provide assistance to needy
families so children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of
relatives. Thus, services are provided to or on behalf of needy families with
children under the age of 21 where the child is without the financial resources
available to meet his or her needs. TANF funds are only used to cover services
for children under age 19 and those with income at or below 75% of the state’s
median income.
3. Fatherhood Initiative – Connecticut’s fatherhood initiative
is a broad-based, statewide program led by the department that focuses on changing
the systems that can improve fathers’ ability to be fully and positively
involved in the lives of their children. The programs objectives are as follows:
• Promote public education concerning the financial and emotional responsibilities
of fatherhood;
• Assist men in preparing for the legal, financial and emotional responsibilities
of fatherhood;
• Promote the establishment of paternity at childbirth;
• Encourage fathers, regardless of marital status, to foster their emotional
connection to and financial support of their children;
• Establish support mechanisms for fathers in their relationship with
their children, regardless of their marital and financial status;
• Integrate state and local services available for families.
4. Education and Training Services – The Department of Corrections (DOC) provides education and training services that prepare clients to develop job skills and ultimately secure employment. TANF funds are used for such services provided to clients who are non-custodial parents. By providing education and training services to non-custodial parents, the program helps them obtain the sills and ultimately jobs that will enable them to be contributing members of their families. In this way, the program encourages the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
5. Addiction Treatment Services – The Department of Correction (DOC) provides addiction services to clients who have varying levels of needs, from basic addiction education to intensive counseling. TANF funds are used to cover the cost of such non-medical services provided to clients who are non-custodial parents. By providing addiction treatment to non-custodial parents, the program helps them become clean and sober, which ultimately will enable them to become contributing members of the family. In this way, the program encourages the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
6. Judicial Branch Counseling Services Program – The Judicial Branch provides mental health counseling services in the three state detention centers. Judicial contracts with private providers for services such as: psychiatric assessment, psychotropic medication management, licensed clinical social work assessment and treatment, substance abuse assessment and short-term treatment and psycho-education for the child and the parent(s). The assessment and counseling services are claimed under TANF and the medical services are not.
The services provided through this program help to prevent out of wedlock births
(purpose three of TANF). The mental health and substance abuse services available
in the state detention centers provide much needed assessment and early intervention
for youths presenting with these types of issues. The research literature shows
that children placed in detention for delinquent behavior are at high-risk for
further involvement with the criminal justice system. High-risk adolescents
involved with the court are also at high-risk or already have a history of out-of-wedlock
pregnancy, school failure, and unemployment. The adolescent detention population
is disproportionately over-represented by children from high conflict families
and the children can often continue in the family legacy of family instability.
7. Summer Youth Extended Day – Summer School programs for students in
Priority School Districts are required by legislation for several group of students
including: kindergarten students in need of additional instruction in reading
readiness; students in 4th and 6th grade who fail to meet the standard on the
4th or 6th grade mastery examination; and students identified as being at risk
of failing to learn to read. Summer school programs are supported by SDE grant
funds to local boards of education for priority school districts.
The summer school programs include educational, enrichment, and recreational components. The TANF allowable expenditures are only those costs associated with services provided after regular summer school hours or, in the SDE vernacular, in “extended day” programs. ACF guidance has recognized the value of after school programs in reducing the opportunity for youth to engage in at-risk behaviors.
This program supports the third purpose of the TANF program, which is to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies. This program has no income criteria. Income criteria are not required.
8. Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) - Problem Gambling Services Program - The Connecticut Lottery Corporation created the "Connecticut Partnership for Responsible Gambling" (the Partnership). The Partnership is designed to educate consumers on problem gambling, underage gambling, and to promote responsible play. The Partnership also serves as a leading resource for responsible gambling, warning signs of problem gambling and available treatment services. The Connecticut Lottery Corporation supports this effort through a $1.2 million annual contribution to the DMHAS Problem Gambling Services Program.
Through the Problem Gambling Services program, DMHAS provides counseling, assessment, financial management counseling, and peer counseling. They also provide gambling prevention services and perform advocacy work. The program operates in 15 sites throughout the State, which are either State-operated or operated by private non-for-profit organizations.
(9) Estimate of Total Number of Individuals who Participated in Subsidized Employment:
The State estimates that 474 individuals participated in subsidized employment during FFY 2004.
Temporary Family Assistance
Two-Parent & Certain Exempt Temporary Family Assistance
Transitory Rental Assistance
Safety Net Services
Safety Net Basic Needs
Non-Citizen's Temporary Assistance
State Funded Medicaid for Non-Citizens
Jobs First Employment Services
Information Systems & Technology
School Readiness
Child Care Assistance
Child Care Assistance for Unemployed Individuals
Child Care Administrative
Temporary Rent Subsidy
Section 1
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Temporary Family Assistance (TFA)
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) is an employment focused, time limited assistance
program that provides families with monthly cash assistance for ongoing needs
such as food, shelter, and clothing. The program design is based on the assumption
that welfare should be a temporary program of assistance, and it is better to
work than to be on welfare. Recipients are encouraged to assume personal responsibility
for their economic self-sufficiency.
TFA benefit levels vary throughout the state based on the average cost of rent
in each area. There are three regions in the state each with a different benefit
level.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Temporary Family Assistance Program provides assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
__X___ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
______ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
(not applicable)
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $126,585,354
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $96,830,129.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 20,548.
This last figure represents (check one):
__X__ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
_____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under
the Program:
Unless they meet exemption criteria, adult TFA recipients are required to seek
and retain employment if it is available. Recipients unable to secure employment
without assistance receive services, including education and training, that
are designed to assist them in becoming employed (see Jobs First Employment
Services description below). The TFA program attempts to direct participants
to employment sufficient to move them off assistance within twenty-one months.
The program contains many features that support this objective. The asset limit
is $3,000 so families may set aside money for emergencies. Families are allowed
to own a reliable car to seek employment, to travel to and from work, or to
transport a disabled family member. To be excluded, the family’s equity
in the vehicle must not exceed $9,500 or the vehicle must be used to transport
a disabled family member. Earned income of recipients is totally excluded up
to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Once earnings reach the FPL, the family
becomes ineligible for assistance. The first $50 in monthly child support payments
are disregarded. Child care and transportation benefits are provided as needed
in order to enable individuals to prepare for, obtain and retain employment.
If a family member refuses to participate in Employment Services activities
the family is penalized through grant reduction.
If the family has made a good faith effort to comply with the employment activities
but still has income below the payment standard at the end of twenty-one months
of assistance, a six-month extension of benefits may be granted. Extensions
may also be given to families who have encountered circumstances beyond their
control such as domestic violence. Effective July 1, 2003, up to two extensions
may be granted in accordance with the above criteria. For third or subsequent
extensions, each adult must also either have two or more substantiated barriers
to employment or be working thirty-five or more hours per week at minimum wage
or above, or be working fewer than thirty-five hours per week due to a medical
problem or the need to care for a disabled household member or precluded from
working because of domestic violence. A 60-month time limit also applies. The
60-month limit can only be exceeded if a domestic violence hardship exists,
or if the family is exempt, as described below.
If each adult in the family meets at least one of the following exemption criteria,
the family is not subject to the time limit: medical incapacitation; age 60
or older; responsibility for the care of an incapacitated family member; non-parent
caretaker relative who does not receive assistance; caring for a child under
the age of one who is not subject to the family cap; pregnant if a physician
has certified that she is unable to work; in a 6-week post-pregnancy period,
or determined to be unemployable. Minor parents attending and satisfactorily
completing high school or high school equivalency programs and their children
are exempt from the time limit.
Other features of the TFA program include the following: Additional assistance
for a child born to a family receiving assistance is one-half of what it would
normally be. Minor parents are required to live with their parents or other
adults. Any relative may receive assistance for a child. Pregnant women are
eligible for assistance throughout the entire pregnancy. Children are eligible
for assistance until they reach age 19 as long as they are still attending high
school or its equivalent.
All adult members and minor parents who are caretaker relatives are required
to participate in the digital imaging process. At the time of application, an
electronic image of the person’s index fingers is taken and matched with
a computer database of all other recipients to determine if the person is receiving
assistance under another name.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ___
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. _________________________
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Two-Parent (TFA-2P) and Certain Exempt Temporary Family Assistance
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Two-Parent Temporary Family Assistance (TFA-2P) is an employment focused, time
limited assistance program that provides two-parent families with monthly cash
assistance for ongoing needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. Like the TANF
cash assistance program that it mirrors, the program design is based on the
assumption that welfare should be a temporary program of assistance, and it
is better to work than to be on welfare. Recipients are encouraged to assume
personal responsibility for their economic self-sufficiency. Certain Exempt
Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) is provided to certain exempt categories of
TFA families in which all adults are exempt from time limits and work requirements
because they are either medically incapacitated, caring for an incapacitated
household member, age 60 or older, or unemployable.
TFA-2P and Certain Exempt TFA program benefit levels vary throughout the state
based on the average cost of rent in each area. There are three regions in the
state each with a different benefit level.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Two Parent and Certain Exempt Temporary Family Assistance Program provides assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
______ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
___X__ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
Work activities for two-parent TFA are identical to work activities for the regular TFA program. They include: unsubsidized employment; subsidized private sector employment; subsidized public sector employment; paid work experience; on-the-job training (OJT); job search and job readiness activities; vocational education training; community service; child care for others doing community service; job skills training directly related to employment; education directly related to employment; and high school / GED. Definitions for these activities are provided under section 1 of the State’s TANF annual report for Fiscal Year 2002.
There is no work activity requirements for the Certain Exempt portion of the program.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$20,688,199
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $20,688,199.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 3,928
This last figure represents (check one):
____X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
______ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under
the Program:
Needy families that include two able-bodied parents who are both recipients
are eligible to receive Two-Parent TFA (other two parent families may be eligible
for the regular TFA program).
Unless they meet relevant exemption criteria, adult TFA-2P recipients are required
to seek and retain employment if it is available. Recipients unable to secure
employment without intervention from the department will receive services, including
education and training, that will assist them in becoming employed.
The TFA-2P program attempts to direct participants to employment sufficient
to move them off assistance within twenty-one months. The program contains many
features that support this objective. The asset limit is $3,000 so families
may set aside money for emergencies. Families are allowed to own a reliable
car to seek employment, to travel to and from work, or to transport a handicapped
family member. To be excluded, the family’s equity in the vehicle must
not exceed $9,500 or the vehicle must be used to transport a handicapped family
member. Earned income of recipients is totally excluded up to the Federal Poverty
Level (FPL). Once earnings reach the FPL, the family becomes ineligible for
assistance. Child care and transportation benefits are provided as needed in
order to enable individuals to prepare for, obtain and retain employment. If
a family member refuses to participate in Employment Services activities the
family is penalized through grant reduction.
If the family has made a good faith effort to comply with the employment activities
but still has income below the payment standard at the end of twenty-one months
of assistance, a six-month extension of benefits may be given. Extensions may
also be given to families who have encountered circumstances beyond their control
such as domestic violence. Up to two extensions may be granted in accordance
with the above criteria. For third or subsequent extensions, each adult must
also either have two or more substantiated barriers to employment, or be working
thirty-five or more hours per week at minimum wage or above, or be working fewer
than thirty-five hours per week due to a medical problem or the need to care
for a disabled household member. A 60-month time limit also applies. The 60-month
limit can only be exceeded if a domestic violence hardship exists, or if the
family is exempt, as described below.
If each adult in the family meets at least one of the following exemption criteria,
the family is not subject to the time limit: age 60 or older; responsibility
for the care of an incapacitated family member; a non-parent caretaker relative
who does not receive assistance; caring for a child under the age of one who
is not subject to the family cap; pregnant if a physician has certified that
she is unable to work; in a 6-week post-pregnancy period; or is determined to
be unemployable. Minor parents attending and satisfactorily completing high
school or high school equivalency programs and their children are exempt from
the time limit. These exemptions are identical to those in the regular (TANF)
TFA program, except TFA’s incapacity and adult non-recipient exemptions
do not apply.
The Certain Exempt portion of the Two-Parent and Certain Exempt TFA separate
state program contains the same eligibility features (treatment of income, asset
limits, etc.) as the Two-Parent program except none of the work requirements
apply to the parents or caretaker relatives in these families.
Other features of the Two-Parent TFA program include the following: Additional
assistance for a child born to a family receiving assistance is one half of
what it would normally be. Minor parents are required to live with their parents
or other adults. Any relative may receive assistance for a child. Pregnant women
are eligible for assistance throughout the entire pregnancy. Children are eligible
for assistance until they reach age 19 as long as they are still attending high
school or its equivalent.
All adult members and minor parents who are caretaker relatives are required
to participate in the digital imaging process. At the time of application, an
electronic image of the person’s index fingers is taken and matched with
a computer database of all other recipients to determine if the person is receiving
assistance under another name.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ___
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. _________________________
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Transitionary Rental Assistance (T-RAP)
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The Transitionary Rental Assistance program (T-RAP) provides up to 12 months of rental assistance payments to families who exhaust 21 months of time-limited TFA or TFA-2P assistance or otherwise leave the program while employed at least 12 hours per week. T-RAP is administered by a contractor to the Department of Social Services. The program’s goal is to provide a monthly rental assistance payment to make safe, affordable housing available for needy families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Transitionary Rental Assistance provides assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
______ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
___X__ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
There are no work activities per se in T-RAP. However, an adult member of the household must be employed at the time of application.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$1,533,663.
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,533,633.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 132.
This last figure represents (check one):
_X__ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under
the Program:
To be eligible, families must have participated in the TFA or TFA-2P program
and have exhausted their 21-months of benefits, and not be eligible for an extension
because they have income over the payment standard, or leave the time-limited
program while employed a minimum of 12 hours per week at minimum wage. An adult
member of the household must be employed at the time of application. There is
an income limit of fifty percent of the state median income level. Participants
must be living in privately owned rental property. The subsidy is equal to the
difference between forty percent of the tenant’s monthly income (minus
certain allowances), and the state-set maximum rent, or twenty percent of the
family’s gross monthly income, whichever is greater. The rent may exceed
the maximum state-set rent only if the family remains in the current rental
unit. The family is responsible for payment of the difference between the state-set
maximum and the actual rent in addition to the income-based contribution. If
a family moves to a new rental unit, the rent must not exceed the state-set
maximum. All subsidized units must meet certain housing standards. Due to limited
funding, a lottery system is used to select eligible recipients.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes __ No _X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. __$0__
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
Section 4
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Safety Net Services
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Safety Net offers services to families who have exhausted the 21-month time limit of TFA or Two Parent TFA benefits, are not eligible for an extension due to non-compliance with employment services requirements, and have income below the payment standard for the appropriate family size. Safety Net clients receive assessment and case management services that focus on the removal of barriers that prevent self-sufficiency. Participants in Safety Net Services may also be referred to local agencies in order to address basic needs.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Safety Net Services help end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
_____ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
___X_ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only
if this program is a separate State program):
There is no work requirement per se for the Safety Net Services program. However, Safety Net participants may participate in various employment and training activities to help them prepare for self-sufficiency. These activities include, but are not limited to, TANF work activities described in Section 1 of the TANF annual report. Participants may also engage in activities aimed at removing barriers to employment, such as substance abuse counseling and treatment for mental health problems.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$465,732
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $465,732.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: _88_
This last figure represents (check one):
__X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
_____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Families must have income less than the TFA payment standard and assets less than TFA asset limit to qualify.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes ___ No __X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
$0_ .
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Safety Net Basic Needs
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Safety Net Basic Needs offers benefits to Safety Net Services-eligible families.
(Such families are eligible if they have exhausted the 21-month time limit of
TFA or Two Parent TFA benefits, are not eligible for an extension due to non-compliance
with employment services requirements, and have income below the payment standard
for the appropriate family size.) The Basic Needs benefit portion of this program
is classified as an assistance program. Safety Net Basic Need benefits are provided
for food, shelter, utilities, clothing, or other basic needs. Payments are made
to third parties on behalf of the family. Not all families are entitled to all
benefits.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Safety Net Basic Needs provides assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
____ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
__X_ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
There is no work requirement per se for the Safety Net Basic Needs program. However, like any participant in Safety Net Services, individuals may participate in various employment and training activities to help them prepare for self-sufficiency. These activities include, but are not limited to, TANF work activities described in Section 1 of the TANF annual report. Participants may also engage in activities aimed at removing barriers to employment, such as substance abuse counseling and treatment for mental health problems.
7. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$300,000
8. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $300,000.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: _7.
This last figure represents (check one):
_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
____ The total served over the fiscal year.
10. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Families must have income less than the TFA payment standard and assets less than TFA asset limit to qualify. Benefits are issued on an as-needed basis; not all families are entitled to all benefits.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes ___ No _X_
12. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
$0_.
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Non-Citizens’ Temporary Family
Assistance (segregated MOE cases within TFA)
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Segregated maintenance of effort funds are used to provide Temporary Family Assistance benefits to qualified legal aliens who would otherwise be ineligible for regular TFA. Program benefits are identical to those described for Temporary Family Assistance under Section 1.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Non-citizens’ TFA provides assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
__X__ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
______ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only
if this program is a separate State program):
(not applicable)
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$565,194.
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $565,194.
Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 53
This last figure represents (check one):
__X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Eligibility criteria for Non-Citizens’ TFA are identical to those described for TFA under Section 1, number 9 of this report, except that qualified aliens who have resided in the state for at least six months are eligible, as long as all other eligibility factors are met. Such aliens who entered the United States after 8/22/96 need not have resided in the U.S. for five years.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes __ No _X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
$0.
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: State Funded Medicaid for Non-Citizens
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Segregated maintenance of effort funds are used to provide medical assistance benefits to qualified legal aliens who would otherwise be ineligible for regular family medical assistance. Program benefits are identical to those provided under the Medicaid program.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Providing medical benefits to families with non-citizens helps end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
__X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
____ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
(not applicable)
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $7,133,712.
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $7,133,712.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 1782
This last figure represents (check one):
___X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
______ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Eligibility criteria for State Funded Medicaid for Non-Citizens’ are identical to those for regular Medicaid for families with income under 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, except that qualified aliens who have resided in the state for at least six months are eligible, as long as all other eligibility factors are met. Such aliens who entered the United States after 8/22/96 need not have resided in the U.S. for five years.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes ___ No _X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
$0_.
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Jobs First Employment Services
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The State provides employment services to recipients of Temporary Family Assistance
(TFA). Employment services are also provided to those who are participating
in an employment service activity authorized by their employment plan at the
time of becoming ineligible for TFA until they complete that activity. The state
refers to these employment services as Jobs First Employment Services. The Connecticut
Department of Labor (DOL) administers Jobs First Employment Services through
CT Works. CT Works is a partnership of the CT Department of Labor, the Regional
Workforce Investment Boards (RWDB's), and other state and local agencies, including
the Department of Social Services.
The goals of the Jobs First Employment Services program are as follows:
1) Enable TFA participants, through employment, to become independent from cash
assistance by the end of the 21-month time limit established by state law;
2) Enable TFA participants who become independent from cash assistance to remain
employed and independent of TFA; and
3) Ensure that federally established participation rates are met through employment
of TFA participants and engagement in other countable TANF work activities deemed
appropriate based on assessments of clients’ needs.
To attain all three program goals, Jobs First Employment Services include a
combination of job search, employment, education, training and support services.
The combination of services varies with each individual participant. This balance
of employment activity with other services utilizes individual strengths and
resources while addressing employment-related needs. This balanced work first
approach ensures that participants will not only become independent, but will
remain independent from assistance while the federal participation rates are
met.
Each participant, including volunteers, may receive employment services that
include, but are not limited to the following: orientation, assessment, case
management, employment plan development, barrier resolution, employment related
education and training programs, job search skill training, job placement services,
case management, support services (such as Special Benefits), retention services,
and re-employment services. Participants who are having difficulty may be provided
with contracted retention and intensive support services, including in-depth
assessment, identification of participation barriers, and referrals to resources
to overcome barriers in order to retain employment and/or successfully complete
program activities.
To facilitate maximum participation, Employment Services participants are supported
by special benefit payments. Transportation benefits are provided to participants
of regular, on-going employment services activities other than unsubsidized
employment. Payment is made for bus fares or mileage for driving private automobiles.
Bus fares are as charged, not to exceed ten dollars per day. Payment for mileage
for private automobiles is two dollars for up to the first ten miles, and twenty
cents per mile after that up to a maximum of fifty miles per day. A participation
allowance which is intended to assist participants with transportation and baby-sitting
expenses is provided for short-term, intermittent employment services activities
that last no longer than five consecutive days. Payment is ten dollars per day
up to a maximum of fifty dollars in the month.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
Jobs First Employment Services help end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
__X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
_____ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
(not applicable)
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year:
$18,325,554 (including Department of Labor administrative expenditures).
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $18,325,554 (including Department of Labor administrative expenditures).
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 16,372
This last figure represents (check one):
____ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
__X_ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under
the Program:
Jobs First Employment Services are provided to adults or minor parents in families applying for or receiving Temporary Family Assistance funded by TANF, and to Temporary Family Assistance to two-parent families funded as a separate state program. All TFA applicants and recipients are eligible for employment services even if they are not required to participate by the regulations governing the TFA program. For TANF funded TFA recipients, Employment Services may continue for up to one year after exiting TFA, provided the recipient is in an employment service activity authorized by the employment plan, and the individual remains part of a needy family with income under 75% of the state's median income level. Similarly, services to participants in two-parent families who become ineligible for TFA while in an authorized activity may continue for one full year.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ___
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. _________________________
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
Section 9
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Information Systems and Technology
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Information System and Technology costs associated with the TFA programs.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
May be applicable to any of the four statutory purposes of TANF.
4. Program Type. (Check one)
___X__ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
______ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only
if this program is a separate State program):
(not applicable)
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $952,261
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $952,261.
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: not applicable
This last figure represents (check one): (not applicable)
________ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
________ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
(not applicable)
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ____
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $0_.
(NOTE: provide only if the response to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: School Readiness Program
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The School Readiness Program provides comprehensive child care services to pre-school children ages 3-5 at state licensed child care centers and at schools governed by local health and safety laws throughout the state to families with incomes below the 75% state median income level.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
School Readiness helps end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage as it allows TANF and former TANF eligible parents to work, participate in job training/counseling or activities to address substance abuse/mental health problems. It also provides educational opportunity to children to help them become ready for school. This opportunity in turn prevents and reduces the incidence of out-of-wedlock births.
4. Program Type. (Check one) (Not applicable - CCDF MOE program applied to TANF MOE requirement.)
______ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
______ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (i.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $27,524,707
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $12,028,766 (none of which was used to meet CCDF matching fund requirements).
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 6227
This last figure represents (check one):
_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Families living in economically disadvantaged communities with pre-school aged children.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes ___ No _X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $0
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No.)
Section 11
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Care Assistance Program (Excluding
Child Care for Unemployed Individuals)
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The Child Care Assistance Program provides vouchers to parents to choose child care settings throughout the state.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The Child Care Assistance Program helps end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage, as it allows TANF and former TANF eligible parents to work, participate in job training/counseling or activities to address substance abuse/mental health problems as long as parent has a child care need and is resident of state.
4. Program Type. (Check one) (Not applicable - CCDF MOE program applied to TANF MOE requirement.)
____ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
____ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $71,691,526
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $12,028,766 (none of which was used to meet CCDF matching fund requirements).
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 7543
This last figure represents (check one):
_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Families with earnings less than 55% of the state median income level.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes X__ No __
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No.)
Section 12
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Care Assistance for Unemployed
Individuals
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The Child Care Assistance Program provides vouchers to parents to choose child care settings throughout the state.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The Child Care Assistance Program helps end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage, as it allows TANF-eligible parents to participate in job training/counseling or activities to address substance abuse/mental health problems as long as parent has a child care need and is resident of state.
4. Program Type. (Check one) (Not applicable - CCDF MOE program applied to TANF MOE requirement.)
____ This Program is operated under the TANF program
____ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $5,629,027
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $5,629,027 (none of which was used to meet CCDF matching fund requirements).
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 718_
This last figure represents (check one):
__X__ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
_____ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
TFA Families who need child care to participate in Jobs First Employment Services activities.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ___
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Care Administrative
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Administrative expenditures related to operation of child care programs that serve TANF-eligible families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The child care programs whose administrative expenses are included help end the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage
4. Program Type. (Check one) (Not applicable - CCDF MOE program applied to TANF MOE requirement.)
______ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
______ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,163,064
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,163,064 (none of which was used to meet CCDF matching fund requirements).
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: (not applicable)
This last figure represents (check one): (not applicable)
___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
___ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Families with earnings less than 75% of the state median income level.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes _X_ No ___
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $0_
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No.)
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Temporary Rent Subsidy Program
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities: Provides rent subsidies to current and former Temporary Family Assistance families. The primary component provides subsidies to families for which homelessness or housing instability is a barrier to employment. A secondary component provides subsidies to families who have become ineligible because of the state's time limits.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The program achieves both the first and second purposes of TANF by providing assistance to needy families and ending dependence of needy parents by promoting job preparation, work and marriage.
4. Program Type. (Check one) (
____ This Program is operated under the TANF program.
__X_ This Program is a separate State program.
5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only
if this program is a separate State program):
There are not work activities specific to this program.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,627,572.
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,627,572
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 204
This last figure represents (check one): (not applicable)
_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
___ The total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under
the Program:
For the primary component families must be participating in the Jobs First Employment Services program and have homelessness or housing instability as a barrier to employment. In addition to this requirement they must also have at least one additional barrier to employment and have a reasonable likelihood of success in securing employment. For the secondary component of the program they must have lost their Temporary Family Assistance eligibility because of the 21-month or 60-month time limits.
Program participants must initially have income below the Temporary Family Assistance payment standard and while receiving the subsidy cannot have income that exceeds 50% of the Area Median Income or 75% of the State Median Income. The family is responsible for payment of 30% of their income toward the cost of the rental unit with the program paying the difference.
10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)
Yes __ No __X_
11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $0_.
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No.)
This certifies that all families for which the State claims MOE expenditures
for the fiscal year meet the State's criteria for "eligible families."
SIGNATURE: _______________________________
NAME: Patricia A. Wilson-Coker
TITLE: Commissioner, Connecticut DSS
