Annual Report on State TANF Programs
- 2004
Rhode Island
Submitted: December 15, 2004
The following annual report complies with requirements of 45 CFR Part 260, Temporary
Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Final Rule and TANF-ACF-PI, October 24,
2001.
The Rhode Island Department of Human Services, herewith, submits this annual
report on both TANF funded programs and services and on those State Maintenance
of Effort (MOE) programs and services provided to families eligible for and/or
receiving cash assistance during Fiscal Year 2004. In Rhode Island, the Family
Independence Act (FIA) of 1996 is the State’s welfare reform legislation.
This act in combination with TANF, provides the framework for Rhode Island’s
policies and programs designed to help families receiving cash assistance prepare
for and become employed. In addition they are the fundamental basis for providing
on-going transitional services to those parents leaving cash assistance to enter
employment.
This report describes services and expenditures under TANF/FIA Programs, Segregated
State Programs, and Separate State Programs. Attachments have been organized
in accord with TANF Program Instruction Number TANF-ACF-PI-01-06 dated October
24, 2001.
RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
And
State Maintenance of Effort (MOE)
ANNUAL REPORT
Fiscal Year 2004
Rhode Island is committed to meet the four (4) statutory goals of TANF through
its comprehensive approach to the FIP/TANF program. In significant ways, FIP
policies and programs support TANF goals, which are to:
(a) provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for
in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
(b) end dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting
job preparation, work and family unity;
(c) prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establish
annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies;
and
(d) encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
Family Independence Program
The Family Independence Act of 1996 established the Family Independence Program (FIP) which requires that a newly eligible FIP parent must be seen by a social worker within forty-five (45) days of qualifying for cash assistance. The new FIP participant is provided a formal family needs assessment as well as an employment assessment at this initial appointment. Then based upon the assessment the participant and the social worker develop an employment plan that charts the work activities to be engaged in to become employed. It is within this context that we offer the definitions of the State’s work activities.
ATTACHMENT A
I. Definitions of State’s Work Activities
45 CFR 261.30 encompasses the 12 categories of work activities listed in Section
407(d) of the Social Security Act for purposes of determining the State’s
required minimum work participation rate (s). Each State defines the activities
that fall under each of these 12 categories and provides them to us. This item
is for that purpose. Therefore, your definitions should include the kinds of
work activities that apply to each of the 12 categories.
1. Unsubsidized Employment
Employer paid work in either private or public sector employment.
2. Subsidized Private-sector Employment
Wage subsidies are provided to those employers who agree to hire a FIP parent
who may have limited work skills but who can learn specific job related skills
within a period of six (6) to nine (9) months. All or part of the individual’s
cash assistance grant is diverted to a wage pool from which employers are reimbursed
$2.50 per hour for part of the wages they pay to the FIP employee. It is expected
that the employee will be retained in an unsubsidized job.
3. Subsidized Public-sector Employment
Part of employees hourly wage is subsidized and the public employer agrees to
hire the FIP parent after the employer receives the wage subsidy for a period
of six (6) to (9) months. The FIP grant is used to contribute $2.50 per hour
toward the wage subsidy.
4. Work Experience
Unpaid Community Work Experience Program is a placement in a public or non-profit
agency for a period of three (3) to six (6) months. These placements offer supervised
work training and establish a recent work history and experience that can be
used for a resume. Frequently these placements lead to on-going full time employment
either with their work experience employer or with another employer. This work
experience may also include work related literacy and community work experience
programs, which are operated by Community Based Organizations (CBO’s)
and in non-traditional settings for limited English-speaking participants.
5. On-the-Job Training
On-the-job-training (OJT) is a paid on the job site skills training placement
for a period of up to six (6) months. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) or Workforce
Investment Act (WIA) funds are used to reimburse employers for the provision
of training. FIP parents are eligible for assistance through the Workforce Investment
Act (WIA). Full time OJT’s are developed by WIA staff and may be approved
as a work activity of the FIP parent’s Employment Plan. OJT’s may
also be funded by Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) for eligible FIP parents with
disabilities. Full time employment is the ultimate outcome for successful trainees
6. Job Search and Job Readiness Assistance
Individual and/or group workshops given on resume preparation, job hunting,
interviewing skills, workplace competencies, problem-solving skills, punctuality,
positive work attitudes, and interpersonal skills. Participants are assisted
in identifying and pursuing employment opportunities. After placement follow
up with the newly employed and advice may continue for up to six months after
the placement.
a) Job Readiness
Job readiness programs are primarily for FIP participants who have no recent
work history; no clearly defined vocational goals; and few or no appropriate
work habits. These programs offer counseling, classroom teaching, and role-playing,
sometimes combined with unpaid work experience. Participants learn problem-solving
skills and are able to identify their employment related strengths and abilities.
They learn what work place expectations are and the appropriate work habits
that result from these expectations like; punctuality, regular attendance, co-worker
relationships, relationship with supervisors, and positive work attitudes. In
addition when necessary they receive remedial education to assure that they
have the basic education necessary to obtain and maintain employment.
b) Job Search
The goal of Job Search is full-time employment. Participants engage in either
individual job search or group job search. This is an activity available for
those participants completing vocational education/job training programs or
for those who need assistance to either enter or re-enter the workforce. Participants
receive help with resume writing, job applications, and interviewing skills.
They are assisted in structuring their employer contacts and their job search
activities are monitored.
• Group Job Search
This is a group activity that assists participants in the use of canvassing
to obtain job interviews, instruction on completing job applications and resumes.
Peer support and career exploration workshops are offered as appropriate. Group
job search may be conducted by FIP staff or by contract providers.
• Individual Job Search
This activity is supervised by a FIP caseworker and involves the same activities
as Group Job Search but is conducted on a one-to-one basis with the FIP parent.
7. Community Service Programs
Community service programs involve placement in public or private non-profit
organizations that perform public services. The participant is able to develop
basic work skills and establish a work history that can be reflected on a resume,
while at the same time meeting some of the community needs.
8. Vocational Education Training
Vocational education training provides a range of educational programs intended
to assist participants to prepare for and acquire employment. The FIP parent
may engage in vocational training, basic education, secondary education, and/or
postsecondary vocational education as appropriate to obtain employment.
a) Vocational Training
FIP parents are frequently best served by participating in non-degree programs,
which are less than one year in duration and provide trainees with certificates
of mastery in skill areas, which meet the needs of employers in today’s
job market. These areas include certified nursing assistants, phlebotomists,
computer basics such as word processing, spreadsheets, and data entry, banking/financial
services, teacher assistants, etc.
b) Basic Education
Many individuals on FIP need basic literacy programs, adult basic education,
vocational English-as a Second-Language, and remediation before they can compete
for a job. These activities assist the parent to achieve the necessary reading,
writing, and mathematics skills necessary to function in the world of work.
c) Secondary Education
This is a targeted service for those who attend traditional high school or an
alternative high school and who will receive a high school diploma or General
Equivalency Diploma (GED), or who attend non-post-secondary education, skills,
or job training programs.
d) Postsecondary Vocational Education
Post secondary vocational education is an education placement at a college or
proprietary school that will lead the participant to employment requiring specialized
training or skills. Each participant must be tested before they are approved
for this activity and must score at or above 9.0 for reading, mathematics, and
language levels. Those approved for such activities must maintain a cumulative
grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or above.
9. Education Directly Related To Securing Employment
Education related to securing a job includes basic literacy and English-as-a
Second Language (ESL), both necessary for the FIP parent to secure employment.
10. Satisfactory Attendance at a Secondary School
Satisfactory attendance at a secondary school or program that will lead to either
a GED or a high school diploma. The FIP participant may attend GED preparation
classes to prepare for the GED examination. These classes often are work oriented
and may even take place at a work site or be combined with skills training.
11. Provision of Child Care for FIP parents
A FIP parent may provide childcare to another FIP parent who is a participant
in a community service program.
Supplement to Work Definitions
DHS Programs Offering Education and Work Activities
Rapid Job Placement
This is an activity for participants who want to work as soon as possible and
need little remediation and help with job readiness/job search, job development
and/or job placement. To assure that the participant successfully remains employed
phone contacts are made each of six months following the date of employment.
This activity is primarily provided through the Department of Labor and Training
(DLT).
RIte Works Employment Program
The Department has established a special unit of workers to provide ongoing
support and technical assistance to FIP parents seeking employment and who need
extra support in this effort. RIte Works provides support in developing subsidized
and unsubsidized job placement opportunities; help with job site advancement;
on-the-job problem solving, employer intervention and advocacy; technical assistance
with child care, transportation, and other work support interventions. During
2004, this unit of five (5) specialized workers, provided support to FIP/TANF
parents and FIP/TANF staff throughout the state through co-location within Network-RI
One-stop Career Centers as well as within the DHS Family Service Centers. This
tie line provided valuable interface and resources with partner agencies such
as Labor, Education, Regional Workforce Investment Boards (WIB’s), Economic
Development, community-based organizations, and with private industry.
For FY 2004 the following RIte Works data is noted:
Certified Vendor Program
The primary goal of the FIP Job Training and Placement Certificate Program is
to prepare FIP parents for full-time employment. In order to facilitate access
to job training and placement for FIP parents DHS has established a statewide
pre-certification program for qualified training organizations. The pre-certification
process provides DHS and its FIP customers with a list of pre-qualified vendors/organizations
with a demonstrated track record of successful training and placement of FIP
adults into long-term unsubsidized jobs. FIP participants are able to choose
among these pre-certified organizations and enroll in programs that enhance
their employability and facilitate their obtaining employment. DHS participates
in the payment for job training of less than 12 months duration offered by these
certified organizations. Job placement services are an important component of
this program offering.
Parents are strongly encouraged to access other funding sources for which they
may be eligible to pay for the training, e.g., Pell Grants, scholarships, Workforce
Investment Act (WIA) Individual Training Accounts. The DHS only contributes
toward the costs of those programs pre-approved by DHS.
Community College of Rhode Island CCRI – REACH Program
The Department has a contract through the CCRI REACH Program to provide academic
testing and vocational assessment for FIP parents in order to develop a realistic
FIP Employment Plan. This data is shared with the FIP Social Caseworker and
is used to help guide parents into the most appropriate job preparation track.
In addition to these services, remediation and tutorial services are provided
to FIP students who have an approved FIP Plan to attend a 2-year post-secondary
vocational education program at the College. REACH workers provide on-going
monitoring of satisfactory attendance and achievement in accord with standards
outlined in FIP Regulations. A number of students graduating from the program
are assisted into employment.
Goodwill Industries, Inc. – Bridges to Independence Program
Goodwill Industries received a contract from DHS to provide intensive, up-front
assessment and job readiness preparation primarily for FIP applicants within
the Providence Regional Family Center. This 10 week, thirty (30) hour per week
program model, helped both new applicants as well as existing beneficiaries
to identify strengths and interests as well as areas of basic needs. The program
focused a great deal on work expectations and problem solving skills with our
parents and served as a gateway to appropriate referrals into vocational training
and/or jobs.
Providence Community Action Program (Pro-CAP)
a) R. I. Displaced Homemaker Program (DHP)
Pro-CAP operated the DHP through a contract similar to the one with Goodwill
Industries. This program worked with FIP recipients through the provision of
group testing and assessment of primarily long-term recipients with little or
no recent or positive connection to the job market. This program served both
the northern and southern regions of the state.
b) Community and Family Development Program (CFDP)
The Department also purchased another special program through Pro-CAP. This
program engaged FIP recipients as peer support specialists. The Peer Support
Specialists were engaged on a time limited basis (9 – 12 months) as interns
to work directly with the hard to reach FIP population. Former FIP beneficiaries
were also hired on a full time basis to train these peer support specialists
and to oversee their work within the community. The vehicle to outreach to FIP
beneficiaries was their statewide presentations of informational sessions for
FIP beneficiaries. They also assisted the Department in establishing positive
and effective ways of working with families and to facilitate communication
between parents and programs.
Adolescent Self-Sufficiency Collaboratives (ASSC’s)
Pregnant and parenting teens receive intensive case management services. Services
include direct assistance with staying in school, returning to school, or if
other activities are more appropriate, the ASSC helps FIP parents access alternative
programs. These may include WIA, alternative high school and/or post secondary
vocational education. Minor teen moms are assessed for appropriate adult supervised
living arrangements. When risk factors are identified, minor pregnant and parenting
teens are carefully screened for possible placement in a New Opportunity Home
(NOH). In the NOH both mother and baby are able to live together along with
specially trained case managers. In addition, younger adolescents are offered
special workshops on youth responsibility, much of which focuses on male responsibility
and positive youth development. Five (5) collaborative agencies throughout the
state work with various community based organizations such as CAP agencies and
visiting nurse programs to assure that the unique needs of pregnant and parenting
teens are addressed.
Dorcas Place Parent Literacy Skills Center
Dorcas Place Parent Literacy Skills Center has been under direct contract with
DHS since the inception of the Family Independence Program. It has provided
basic literacy skills classes for FIP participants as well as a supportive atmosphere
that promotes success. The literacy classes provide for up to thirty hours per
week of education and have incorporated a work-based competency component into
the learning model.
R. I. Department of Education (RIDE) - Project Opportunity
A direct contract with RIDE has been in place since the inception of the Family
Independence Program. The services address adult needs for basic education,
literacy and GED preparation classes. In addition a limited number of parents
can participate in a work site literacy training program, which also assists
with job placement and job advancement. A core element within all Project Opportunity
programs is a work readiness component. RIDE sub-contracts with approximately
thirteen (13) adult education centers and community based organizations to deliver
these specialized services to FIP parents.
Office of Rehabilitation – Learning Disabilities Project
Within the Department, the Office or Rehabilitation services works closely with
the FIP/TANF social caseworkers to identify FIP parents who may have learning
disabilities. Where such preliminary information is revealed, these FIP parents
are given access to psychologists who specialize in the evaluation and diagnosis
of Learning Disabilities. When a diagnosis is determined, this information is
sent back to the FIP social caseworker, who then works to find the most appropriate
resources to help these individuals in their pursuit of employment. If reasonable
accommodations are called for, the ORS-LD specialist helps to acquire what is
needed and thus mitigate certain barriers to employment.
Sstarbirth of Rhode Island
This very unique program provides temporary residential services for FIP mothers
and their children as they transition from incarceration and/or substance abuse
treatment facilities back into the community. This transitional home provides
each family with their own bedroom, and shared living space in a relatively
new, state of the art building. Residents can receive help with basic education
and/or job readiness skills. Some FIP parents may be transported to a local
adult learning center while their babies are cared for in the facility by on-site
licensed childcare.
II. Description of transitional services provided to families no longer
receiving assistance due to employment. Indicate the kinds of help provided
to working families that received, but no longer receive, “assistance”
as defined in 45 CFR 260.31.
Rhode Island has made a significant commitment to support low income working
families, particularly working families who are no longer receiving cash assistance.
Eligibility standards are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level
(FPL). Both the child care (225% FPL) and health care/RIte Care (250% FPL) eligibility
standard have been established at levels high enough to cover families until
earnings and income are sufficient to enable them to support themselves and
their children through long term employment. All families leaving FIP due to
employment are automatically considered for eligibility to receive health care,
childcare and food stamps. In addition to these three major transitional work
supports, FIP provides job retention and job advancement assistance through
the RIte Works Job Retention Unit. The following describes these transitional
supports.
1. Child Care Assistance Program
Under the Family Independence Act, childcare is an entitlement for FIP parents
in training, education and/or employment and is considered an entitlement for
low-income parents who leave cash assistance due to employment. Additionally,
childcare for working families is not a time limited benefit in Rhode Island.
However, it is limited by income guidelines, which are at or below 225% of FPL.
The FIP Program determines eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program
(CCAP) for families as they transition off cash assistance due to employment.
When the family requests child care assistance at the time of termination from
FIP, the FIP caseworker updates the current child care application before the
active case is electronically referred to the Child Care Assistance Program;
in order to prevent any unnecessary interruption of child care services for
working parents. A CCAP worker maintains the case file and redetermines eligibility
for CCAP every six (6) months or sooner if circumstances change within the working
parent’s household.
2. Food Stamp Program
Continuation in the Food Stamp Program for those whose earnings do not exceed
income guidelines, is extremely important to the family’s ability to maintain
themselves in employment.
When a household is discontinued on cash assistance, food stamp benefits are
not automatically discontinued. These households are considered Non-Public Assistance
(NPA) households and are served by the NPA Food Stamp Offices for the duration
of the household’s food stamp eligibility. If there is sufficient information
to determine continuing food stamp eligibility, the eligibility worker closes
the FIP case and approves the Food Stamp case in the electronic INRHODES system
using the new income and circumstances until the end of the certification period.
As with childcare, this benefit is not defined by time limits, but rather by
meeting income and eligibility standards.
3. Extended Medical Assistance
Rhode Island considers health coverage to be a vital support for all low income
families, and has made a significant investment to insure that eligible working
families do not lose health coverage when they close to cash assistance due
to employment.
Extended Medical Assistance is available to FIP and Section 1931 MA-only families
who lose eligibility for Section 1931 MA due to increased income. When a family
closes to cash assistance due to increased income, continuing eligibility for
Medical Assistance is evaluated in terms of both the Extended Medical Assistance
policy as well as for Section 1931 policy. Parents may be eligible up to 185%
FPL and children are eligible up to 250% FPL .
During FY 2002 the Department instituted a new cost sharing policy. In effect,
this means that families with incomes greater than 150% FPL are now required
to pay a monthly premium. During FY 2004, virtually 100% of the FIP cases that
closed to cash assistance due to employment received extended medical assistance
through DHS RIte Care/RIte Share.
4. RIte Works Job Retention Services
Because many FIP parents face difficulties during the period of transition from
cash assistance to unsubsidized long term employment, RIte Works staff provide
ongoing support and technical assistance to those families who have closed to
cash assistance and are now employed. Support includes help with job site advancement;
on-the-job problem solving, employer intervention and advocacy; technical assistance
with childcare, transportation, and other work support interventions.
III. Description of how State will reduce the amount of assistance payable to a family when an individual refuses to engage in work without good cause pursuant to 45 CFR 261.14.
In situations when compliance and/or successful engagement in an Employment Plan are at issue, FIP/TANF parents are offered a conciliation process, which is intended to provide the parent with an opportunity to prove good cause for non-compliance with her/his Employment Plan. Where conciliation fails to satisfy the criteria for good cause, the parent is subject to the penalties. The penalties for noncompliance with work requirements defined below were in effect from September 2003 through August 2004. In September 2004 the DHS changed the penalty rules for parents’ noncompliance with required participation in an Employment Plan. The penalty imposed remains the same for the first 24 months of noncompliance. However, for those families who are noncompliant for 24 months, whether or not consecutive, the new penalty is the termination of the entire family’s cash assistance benefit.
1. Work Penalties – First 24 Months of Employment Plan
During the first twenty-four (24) months of the parent’s Employment Plan,
the amount of cash assistance for her/his family shall be reduced in any month
by the parent’s portion of the family’s cash benefit in which the
parent fails, without good cause, to comply with the Employment Plan. For a
family size of two (2), the benefit reduction equals one hundred five dollars
($105.00). The penalty becomes effective on the next payroll date after the
adverse action period. The parent is notified of the penalty by an electronically
generated notice.
2. Work Penalties – Beginning Month 25 of the Employment Plan
(effective October 2003 to August 2004)
Beginning with the twenty-fifth (25th) month of the Employment Plan, the following
penalties shall apply in any month to a parent in which the parent, without
good cause, fails to comply with her/his Employment Plan:
Months of non-compliance and percent of parent’s portion of cash reduction
1 – 6 months 110% of cash assistance
7 – 12 months 120% of cash assistance
13 – 18 months 130% of cash assistance
19 – 24 months 140% of cash assistance
If a parent fails to comply with her/his Employment Plan for more than twenty-four (24) months, the family’s benefit is re-evaluated and shall be reduced by one-hundred percent (100%) of that parent’s benefit and the entire remaining benefit shall be paid to a protective payee.
3. Work Penalties – Beginning Month 25 of the Employment Plan
(effective beginning September 2004)
Parents who are noncompliant for 24 months, whether or not consecutive, the
penalty is the termination of the entire family’s cash assistance benefit
IV. The average monthly number of payments for childcare services made by the State through the use of disregards, by the following types of childcare providers:
Rhode Island continues to experience a major change in the use of the childcare
disregard option. Since implementation of TANF/FIP, there has been more than
a 75% decrease in the number of parents choosing the child care disregard and
a 53% reduction from FY 2003 usage. Rhode Island has heavily invested in access
to and availability of childcare by increasing reimbursement rates and by improving
standards of quality. These actions have greatly contributed to this major change
in parental choice.
Provider Type Average Monthly Disregards
i. Licensed/Regulated In-Home Care N/A
ii. Licensed/Regulated Family Child Care 5
iii. Licensed/Regulated Group Home Child Care 0
iv. Licensed/Regulated Center-based Child Care 2
v. Legally Operating In-Home by non-relative 14
vi. Legally Operating In-Home by a relative 19
vii. Legally Operating Family Child Care by a non-relative 28
viii. Legally Operating Family Child Care by a relative 29
ix. Legally Operating Group Family CC by a non-relative N/A
x. Legally Operating Group Family Child Care by relative 7
xi. Legally Operating Center-based Child Care 2
Data based on actual FIP child care disregard data from INRHODES monthly reports,
which have been averaged for
FY 2004, as well as estimated usage rates reflected in Brown University Child
Care Disregard Study of October 1998.
V. State has adopted the Family Violence Option and seeks Federal recognition
of its good cause domestic violence waivers under 46 CFR 260.50-58.
The following is
a) description of strategies and procedures in place to ensure that victims
of domestic violence receive appropriate alternative services and b) aggregate
figure for the total number of good cause domestic violence waivers granted.
Rhode Island implemented the Family Violence Option (FVO) as part of the Family
Independence Program in August of 1998. FIP staff provides notification about
the FVO to all FIP cash applicants and recipients. Notification includes information
on work waivers and child support waivers for FIP victims of domestic violence.
A list of resources for victims, and a description of the process for applying
for a FVO waiver are provided to all applicants and recipients. The FVO notices
are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Laotian and Cambodian.
The FVO requires the FIP social caseworker to screen for indications of domestic
violence or risk of domestic violence. When identified the worker must refer
those who are or might be at risk for domestic violence to the domestic violence
advocates under contract to the Department in order that our client can access
the necessary services. Advocates are immediately available by cell phone. These
advocates provide in-depth services to FIP cash recipients including assessments
and recommendations for waivers of child support and/or work requirements. Additionally,
they provide crisis counseling, safety planning, bilingual services, court advocacy,
and referrals to other resources such as emergency shelters, support groups,
and mental health services.
Rhode Island’s FVO Program has received national recognition as a model program. Results of an evaluation conducted by MCH, Inc. in FY 2000 indicated that the program is reaching the clients most in need of services and concluded that the collaboration of FIP Program with the R. I. Coalition Against Domestic Violence and its subcontractor have been very successful.
NOTE: In 2004, the average number of active FIP cases receiving domestic violence waivers in a quarter is 36 for Work Waivers, 200 for Child Support Waivers, including 12 receiving both waivers, totaling 248 waivers per quarter.
VI. Description of non-recurrent, short-term benefits, as defined in
45 CFR 260.31(b)(1)
1. Clothing Allowance for Children
The clothing allowance is a one-time payment issued separately from the regular
FIP payroll for children of cash assistance families. The amount of the clothing
allowance is determined subject to the amount appropriated by the General Assembly
for that purpose .
A clothing allowance of thirty dollars ($30.00) is issued for each child between
the ages of four (4) and eighteen (18) who is FIP eligible in the month of August.
The allowance is available on the first Friday of August at 5:00 a.m. through
EBT. All cases approved after the first Friday of August will have access to
their clothing allowance as of the date of approval. New cases receive information
with their acceptance letter.
2. Emergency Expenses/Catastrophic Assistance
Assistance with emergency expenses is provided in the event of a documented
catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature.
This emergency assistance may be authorized for the replacement of destroyed
clothing for FIP families and/or repair or replacement of essential household
equipment and furnishings. Procedures for authorization of catastrophic assistance
include prompt reporting of the incident at the address of record by the family,
documentation of the catastrophe by the DHS Housing Services Unit (HSU) social
caseworker, and the preparation of a report for the review and approval by the
Regional Manager. The appropriate FIP eligibility technician authorizes payment
of catastrophic assistance.
3. Emergency Moving Expenses
Assistance with emergency moving expenses may be provided to FIP families who
are forced to move as a result of a threat to the family’s health and
well being. DHS must pre-approve the expenditure. Reimbursement for moving expenses
is limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200.00).
Payment for a move is limited to only once in a twelve (12) month period unless
(a) the need for a move results from a fire or natural disaster, or (b) a waiver
may be granted by the Regional Manager for unusual or exceptional circumstances
based on a report by the Housing Services Unit. Procedures for authorization
of moving expenses include: the family’s meeting the criteria for moving,
finding a new location, having the new location pass pre-rental inspection prior
to the actual move, and approval by the HSU social caseworker who must verify
the moving bill before authorizing reimbursement.
4. Emergency Housing Assistance Program
The emergency housing assistance program is funded through the state of Rhode
Island and operated by Community Action Agencies throughout the state. This
program is designed to assist eligible low-income families who are experiencing
a temporary housing crisis that either threatens or actually results in a loss
of housing.
Short-term emergency housing assistance payments may be made directly to landlords
or lending institutions in the form of a check made payable to both the landlord/lending
institution and the client (co-signatures required) in order to meet the short-term
emergency housing needs of eligible households. Funds may be used for:
• Actual monthly rent in an amount not to exceed $600 per month for a
maximum of two (2) months; or
• Mortgage payments (principal and interest only) in an amount not to
exceed $600 per month for a maximum of two (2) months; or
• Security deposit in an amount not to exceed $600, and if necessary,
one month's rent; the combined total of which cannot exceed $1,200.00.
Since this program was not designed to be an entitlement program, the maximum
level of financial assistance provided to a household is based on an amount
not to exceed $1200.00 needed to resolve the temporary housing crisis with assurances
that the household will be able to meet future housing costs in order to maintain
permanent housing. Eligibility is determined both on a financial criteria as
well as special needs based criteria. The Executive Director of the CAP Agency
must approve any circumstances deemed by a CAP Agency as creating a temporary
emergency housing crisis. All exceptions requested must be approved by the Department
of Human Services on a case-by-case basis, prior to a disbursement of financial
assistance under the guidelines of this program. Long-term shelter residents
and long-term homeless (i.e. 90 days or more) who cannot, under current circumstances
maintain a permanent address are not targeted for assistance under these program
funds.
VII. A description of the grievance procedures the State has established and is maintaining to resolve displacement complaints, pursuant to section 407(f)(3) of the Social Security Act.
The department assures that no individual is displaced as a result of FIP parents
being placed in subsidized employment in accord with section 407(f)(3) through
the signed agreement with employers who participate in the FIP subsidy job program.
This agreement articulates the prohibition of displacing anyone in an already
existing job and requires the participating employer to certify that no person
will be displaced as a result of hiring FIP parents who qualify to receive a
short-term (six to nine month) wage subsidy.
Furthermore, the State has defined grievance procedures, which cover the displacement
of individuals with disabilities through the Department of Labor and Training
and would apply such provisions to address appropriate displacement grievances
through that process.
VIII. Summary of State programs and activities directed at the third
and fourth
Statutory purposes of TANF, as specified in CFR 260.20(c) and (d).
a) Summarize below, the State programs and activities directed at preventing
and reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establishing annual
numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies
as specified in (TANF Purpose-3): and
b) Summarize below, the State programs and activities directed at encouraging
the formation and maintenance of two-parent families (TANF purpose 4).
1. Programs and activities directed at preventing and reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, with special emphasis on teenage pregnancies, and establishing numerical goals for reducing the out-of-wedlock pregnancy rate.
Crafted to implement requirements of both the Personal Responsibility and Work
Reconciliation Act and the R. I. Family Independence Act, the Department of
Human Services funds five (5) Adolescent Self-Sufficiency Collaboratives (ASSCs)
located in five core areas of the state where adolescents are most at risk for
early pregnancy, exposure to substance use and abuse, and involvement in violence
in home, school and/or the community. The ASSCs’ primary goal is to assist
teens to achieve long-term economic independence and the well being of the teen
parents and their children. The ASSCs promote postponement of initial pregnancy
through the Youth Responsibility Project. This project, a component of the ASSC
program, presents life management and asset development curriculums to program
participants. Postponement and reduction of repeat pregnancies is also a major
program goal, achieved through intense case management of participating pregnant
and parenting teens.
The R. I. General Assembly passed the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Partnership
Act in January 1997. The purpose of the Act was to develop a comprehensive statewide
plan to prevent and reduce the incidence of unintended pregnancies among adolescents
and to structure and coordinate primary pregnancy prevention health care services
and educational programs for at risk adolescents. The Teen Pregnancy Prevention
Partnership consists of representatives from the Departments of Human Services,
Health, Education and Children, Youth and Families. The plan resulting from
this legislation was completed and presented to the General Assembly in June
1999.
NUMERIC GOALS:
i. Numeric goals for reduction of teen pregnancy, 1998 through 2005.
• Latest statistics (2002) report that Rhode Island’s rate of births
for girls 15 to 17 years old was 19.6 per 1000 births, which is below the national
rate of 23.2 births per 1000; the Rhode Island rate of birth for teens aged
15 to 17 was reduced 8.8 % from the 2001 birth rate. This rate is also well
below the 2001 goal set by the state for minor adolescents of 43/1000 births.
• The repeat birth rate for all girls in Rhode Island, 15 to 19 (1996
to 2001) was 20.6%. A DHS evaluation of girls participating in the ASSC programs
demonstrates that girls who participate long term are less likely to have a
repeat pregnancies than the girls who participate for only a short period of
time.
ii. Numeric goals that designate youth (both male and female) involvement in
pregnancy prevention and sexual responsibility education programs reflect that:
• In FY 2004, 284 boys and girls, 12 to 19 years of age, participated
in the Youth Responsibility Project.
iii. Community and local involvement in the statewide planning effort and development
of primary prevention services and educational programs for adolescents, especially
in areas of the state with high rates of teen pregnancy.
• State Departments defined in the Pregnancy Prevention Plan are advisory
to the R. I. Children’s Cabinet for the purpose of developing a comprehensive
“Youth Success Cluster (YSC).” The YSC developed Comprehensive Strategy
Teams in five core cities with the highest number of children at risk. Each
team has a strategic plan to reduce teen pregnancy. All federal/state-funded
programs affecting youth success are presented to and coordinated through the
YSC before presentation to Rhode Island communities.
• Since 2001 the State has received Federal Funds to provide substance
abuse (SA) prevention services to youths . While SA prevention is the primary
goal in awarding of this grant to the State, a major concurrent benefit is gained
within the same statewide network that is devoted to Pregnancy Prevention; this
provides all human service departments greater resources to work for successful
outcomes in all areas of prevention. As part of statewide coordination, DHS
FIP/TANF administration actively participates in policy and planning for this
special project.
2. Encouraging the Formation and Maintenance of Two-Parent Families
The Family Independence Act encourages two-parent families to stay together
by allowing them to receive cash assistance as long as the household’s
income qualifies the family for cash assistance.
FIA adopted strong family strength and unity provisions. As a result, two (2)
parent families receiving FIP cash assistance increased substantially from 492
families on cash assistance in April, 1997, to 1,233 households in December,
1998, 1019 in October 2000, 975 in August 2002 and 1009 in September, 2003,
and in September, 2004 there were 949 FIP two parent family cases. Two (2) parent
families currently represent 7.1% of the total FIP cash assistance caseload.
In order to provide these parents with appropriate services, DHS has a cooperative
agreement with the Department of Labor and Training to offer rapid job placement
services for two (2) parent families. Additionally, special employment assistance
services for non-custodial parents are offered which is intended to assist and
reinforce potential support for low-income children from both custodial and
non-custodial parents.
The Department works closely with the Division of Taxation, Child Support Enforcement
administration to participate in a Father and Family Coalition for the purpose
of helping families re-unite or if more appropriate, to come together in behalf
of the emotional and economic well being of their children in common. Significant
community education and outreach activities have occurred, with joint training
being offered to community based organizations as well as in-service training
for staff of the Department of Children, Youth and Families. DHS FIP/TANF Policy
and Program administration and the DHS Head Start Collaboration Grant Manager
are active members of the steering committee of the Coalition. In coordinating
efforts of the Father and Family Coalition, the State and the Department continues
to work on developing specific programs to help fathers, particularly non-custodial
fathers, acquire job skills and employment opportunities while at the same time
learning of the range of supports available to help build positive involvement
in the lives of their children.
IX. An estimate of the total number of individuals who have participated in subsidized employment under 261.30(b) or (c) of this chapter.
Employer subsidies are provided to employers who agree to hire a FIP parent who may have less than the required work experience or educational level requested for the position, who may have limited work readiness skills, or who may need special accommodations in work hours because of the transportation and/or child care issues. Employers expect that the individual will be able to perform the duties of the job within a period of six (6) to nine (9) months. All or part of the individual’s FIP grant is diverted to a wage pool to reimburse the employers for part of the cost of the wages that are paid to the new employee. Employers and the new employee receive job retention/job advancement services through the RIte Works Employment and Retention Service Unit during the transition from cash assistance to employment, and for one year after the transition from subsidized to unsubsidized employment. Upon completion of the subsidized employment, it is expected that the individual will be retained in unsubsidized employment with the same employer.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Program Administration
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Relates to overall administrative costs for FIP/TANF program operations, management, direct service and case management staff as well as systems and financial management.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of program administration and systems is to assure a high quality of service delivery; to determine and issue accurate payments; to monitor and track participant activities, and maintain a process of accountability in accord with both FIP and TANF requirements. Additionally, through program administration and systems, Rhode Island is able to operate a comprehensive program in accord with statutory goals of TANF:
a) To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for
in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
b) Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash
assistance;
c) Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families; and
d) Prevent and reduce the incidence of out of wedlock pregnancies.
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):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $5,118,314
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $5,118,314
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 15,031
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:
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.
(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."
NOTE: This signature serves as certification for all ACF204 Forms contained in this document.
SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Cash Assistance for FIP Families
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
This Program provides cash assistance payments twice monthly to needy families
and children who meet income and resource eligibility criteria defined in DHS-FIP
Policy Manual. FIP benefits are limited for parents to five (5) years unless
family is determined exempt from time limits due to illness, incapacity or other
circumstances, which prevent them from participating in an Employment Plan.
Non-exempt families must participate in employment or be preparing for employment
through a broad range of approvable work activities.
Time limits are applied after FIP parent(s) have had a comprehensive family
needs assessment and an education and employment assessment and as appropriate,
develop and sign an Employment Plan. This Plan outlines steps needed to achieve
economic independence from FIP.
Children (under age 18) of low-income eligible families are not subject to a
five (5) year limit on cash assistance.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to maintain a level of financial support to help families meet basic needs for themselves and their children. This benefit is consistent with TANF purposes as stated in 260.20 (a), (b) and (d):
e) To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for
in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
f) Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash
assistance;
d) Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families.
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):
Work activities and requirements are the same under the Separate State Program
as those delineated in TANF State Plan.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $5,170,317
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $5,170,317
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 12,161
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:
Must be caring for a child(ren) and must meet income and resource test in order to be determined eligible for FIP cash assistance benefits.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal
Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for EACH PROGRAM for which the State claims MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:
Cash Assistance for FIP two-parent families not fully meeting work requirements,
non-parent caretaker relatives, minor teen parents, legal non-citizens, and,
and child-only cases resulting from the head of household having received 60
months of FIP cash assistance.
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Cash Assistance benefits are provided under FIP to families and children who
meet FIP income and resource eligibility criteria to help them meet their basic
needs. This Separate State Program is provided to assist:
• Two-Parent families who have developed an Employment Plan but who need
services and assistance to help them until they are able to reach 35 hour work
activity requirements under TANF;
• Non-custodial Caretaker Relatives and Minor Teen Parents who are not subject to time limits under this Separate State Program
• Child-only cases who are maintained on cash assistance without regard to time limits
• Fugitives and fleeing felons
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to provide cash assistance to help families meet their basic needs and is consistent with TANF 260.20(a),(b),(d)
a) Provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in
their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
b) End dependence on cash assistance by promoting job preparation, employment
and family formation;
c) Prevent and reduce the incidence of out of wedlock pregnancies and establish
annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of pregnancy;
and
d) Encourage and support formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
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):
A. Work requirements for FIP parents served under this separate state program are the same as those covered by the program operated under FIP/TANF.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $11,994,062
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal
Year: $11,994,062
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 2413
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 for FIP program cash assistance is based on financial need (income/resources) and having children in care. Child-only cases may also qualify based on need.
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.
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Cash Assistance for Families Working thirty (30) or more hours per week.
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Provides cash assistance payments and services to FIP working families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to offer an economic incentive to strongly encourage parents to work no less than thirty (30) hours per week and as long as they work a minimum of thirty (30) hours per week thus halt the counting of months toward their 60 month time limit. The state of Rhode Island adopted this policy in order to reinforce the benefits of work. This is a support for those not able to initially or ever acquire or qualify for well paying jobs, but for whom employment plus supplemental cash assistance renders their families better off working than not working. This benefit is consistent with TANF purposes as stated in 260.20 (a), (b) and (d):
g) To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for
in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
h) Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash
assistance;
e) Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families.
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):
a) FIP parents must signed a FIP Employment Plan which reflects paid employment
at thirty (30) or more hours per week if they are a one parent family and 35
or more hours per week if they are in a two parent family.
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $2,139,199
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $2,139,199
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 727
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:
Must be in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have verified paid employment which meets minimum requirement of thirty (30) or more hours per week (35 in 2-parent families).
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.
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Education, Vocational Education, and Employment Services
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
FIP parents are provided a broad range of appropriate services in order to prepare for and enter the workforce. Through DHS contracted services and pre-certified vendor programs, participants are able to develop their FIP Employment Plan in a way that addresses their individual job preparation needs and thus, better assures successful transition from cash assistance to economic independence through employment. Programs and services are offered in whole or in part through direct contracts with the Departments of Labor and Training, Education, Community College of Rhode Island, R. I . Public Transit Authority, Dorcas Place Literacy Skills Center, Providence Community Action Program, 5 Adolescent Self-Sufficiency Collaboratives, Comp-CAP New Opportunity Homes, Domestic Violence Coalition, Sstarbirth Residential Treatment Center and for individuals with disabilities, joint services are available through the DHS Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS).
Services include: assessment, testing and evaluation,
literacy, basic education (ABE, ESL, GED, remediation)
special services for individuals with learning disabilities;
vocational skills certificate programs,
postsecondary vocational education,
job readiness/job search;
community work experience,
rapid job placement for English and non-English speaking parents
peer support and career guidance
crisis intervention for victims of domestic violence
transportation and other support services
case management, family counseling, and residential services minor parents and
parents in recovery
job development, job placement and job retention
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
All services and programs purchased through the Family Independence Program are geared to assist and prepare parents for gainful employment and as appropriate, to reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies 260.20 (b) and (c).
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):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $2,935,844
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $2,935,844
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 4605
This last figure represents (check one):
The average monthly total for the fiscal year.
_X_ Approximate Total served over the fiscal year.
9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:
Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan or are eligible for FIP but have unique and/or critical needs beyond those that can be addressed in an Employment Plan (eg. FIP Minor parents residing within the New Opportunity Homes) participate in these services.
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.
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Care Assistance Program
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Child Care services are provided to all FIP Parents who have approved education,
vocational training and/or work activity plan and need child care in order to
carry out their Plan. Additionally, income eligible working families as well
as teen parents actively involved in the Adolescent Self Sufficiency Collaborative
are also provided with necessary child care assistance and services in order
to maintain employment or in the case of teen parents, pursue a high school
diploma.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of the Child Care Assistance Program is to provide access, affordability and quality child care for those families employed or preparing to become employed. This benefit is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a), (b).
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):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $ 52,636,353
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $31,747,881
(Funds used to meet CCDF matching Fund Requirements) -0-
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 3161
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:
Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan and those families who meet FIP income and resource tests are eligible to participate in MOE-funded Child Care Assistance.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs:
ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program DCYF Childcare Services
2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
The Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF) Child Care Services helps
families in cases where children are in the care and custody of DCYF. Expenditures
primarily relate to circumstances where the relative caregiver/parent requires
such
support services in order to work or address other care needs of children and
families.
This program is operated through the Department of Children Youth and Families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to provide access to eligible families who may need childcare services and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a)
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own 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 $ 1,926,575
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $
1,926,575
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 574
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:
This benefit is available for FIP children and families already in receipt FIP cash assistance and for children and families otherwise eligible and involved in Title IV-E services.
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.
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Other Supportive Services (Transportation)
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Transportation assistance is provided only to FIP parents who have an approved and signed FIP Employment Plan and who are attending programs and services geared to provide them with the basic education, job readiness, and vocational education and work based competency skills needed acquire and maintain employment .
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of the Transportation benefit is to assure that FIP families do not experience unnecessary barriers to employment due to a lack of reliable automobiles or other forms of transportation. obtaining gainful employment by eligible clients 260.20 (b).
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):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $148,449
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $148,449
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 580
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:
Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan are eligible to participate in this Subsidized Employment Program.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Subsidized Employment Program
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Subsidized employment is a temporary wage subsidy program which provides FIP parents with job opportunities whereby part of the hourly wages ($2.50/hour) are reimbursed by DHS to various employers willing to hire new employees who otherwise lack needed skills or experience but through a six (6) to nine (9) month period of time, are able to acquire enough skills to help them maintain employment with local employers. Individual contracts are developed and signed by both newly hired FIP employees and with local employers who agree to certain conditions outlined within the contract.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
To promote gainful employment of eligible clients 260.20 (b).
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):
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $8,895
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $8,895
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 36
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:
Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan are eligible to participate in this Subsidized Employment Program.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Support Pass Through
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
When a non-custodial parent receives a court order to pay child support in behalf of any child(ren) receiving FIP cash assistance, the Department of Administration, Division of Taxation is designated to administer child support collections and payments. When DOA collects current child support from the absent parent, an administrative mechanism is in place to pass along to the FIP/TANF the family first $50.00 of the monthly amount collected. DHS serves as the pass-through agency for FIP families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to encourage support of children by both custodial and non-custodial parents and to provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the home of a relative.
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 $1,190,307
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $1,190,307
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 5214
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:
In order to receive the Pass Through payment, families must be in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have their current child support collected from the non-custodial parent for the assistance unit to receive this $50.00 pass-through.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Clothing Allowance for FIP Children
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
This benefit provides an annual clothing allowance for school-age children between the ages of four (4) and eighteen (18) years of age and whose family is in receipt of FIP cash assistance
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to assist needy families and children and is
consistent with
TANF goal 260.20 (a) to provide assistance to needy families so that children
may be cared for in their own 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 $245,004
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $245,004
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 6,284
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:
Children must be school age (between 4 and 18 years of age) and be on FIP cash assistance.
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.)
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Emergency Expenses/Catastrophic Assistance
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Emergency expenses may be provided in the event of a documented catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families with replacement and/or repair of essential household belongings and furnishings and is consistent with TANF 260.20
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own 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 $12,549
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $12,549
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 31
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:
This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families. Payment of catastrophic assistance is authorized by the FIP eligibility technician.
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.
Not Applicable
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Emergency Moving Assistance
2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Emergency moving expenses may be provided in the event a family is forced to move from their home or residence. Based upon a pre-approval, families may be reimbursement for moving expenses which is limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200.00) only once within a twelve month period of time.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families who may need to move as a result of a threat to the family’s health and well being, and is consistent with TANF 260.20
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own 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 $17,288
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $17,288
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 218
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:
This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families. Payment of emergency moving expenses is authorized by the appropriate FIP Housing Services Unit.
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.
Not Applicable
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Emergency Housing Assistance
2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Emergency Housing Assistance may be provided in the event a low-income family is experiencing a temporary housing crisis, which either threatens or actually results in a loss of housing. Short-term emergency housing assistance payments may be made directly to landlords or lending institutions in the form a check made payable to both the landlord/lending institution and the low income parent in need, where co-signatures are required) in order to address the short-term housing crisis. Because this is not an entitlement program, the Department contracts with CAP agencies throughout the state to operate this service and to handle eligibility and payments.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to assist either FIP cash assistance families and/or low income families who otherwise meet eligibility criteria of the FIP program with temporary Emergency Housing Assistance. This benefit is consistent with TANF 260.20:
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own 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):
Not Applicable
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $262,135
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $262,135
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 420
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:
This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families as well as low income needy families throughout the state who otherwise meet FIP income eligibility standards.
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.
Not Applicable
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Emergency Assistance-EA
2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
Emergency Assistance (EA) helps children and families in cases of emergency situations such as deprivation of food, housing and parental support. Expenditures primarily relate to circumstances of temporary absence of the child from the home and family. This program is operated through the Department of Children, Youth and Families.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families who may need crisis intervention and services and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a)
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own 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 $8,603,211
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $8,603,211
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 528
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:
This benefit is available for FIP children and families already in receipt FIP cash assistance and for children and families otherwise eligible and involved in Title IV-E services.
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 ____
12. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
(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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
Attachment B
Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204
State: Rhode Island Fiscal Year: 2004
Date Submitted: December 15, 2004
Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims
MOE expenditures.
1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Citizenship Initiative
2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
This service offers citizenship classes, registration programs, and other
services to low-income non-citizen families who are pursuing citizenship in
the United States.
The Department provides this service through contracts with several community-based
organizations throughout the state.
3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:
b) Low income needy families are able to prepare to become citizens, thus they
are
better able to access jobs and earn wages without having to depend on public
assistance. This initiative is consistent with stated goals of TANF 260.20
To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in
their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash
assistance;
Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families; and
Prevent and reduce the incidence of out of wedlock pregnancies.
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):
Not Applicable
6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $50,000
7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $50,000
8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 343
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:
Families helped are low income FIP eligible.
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: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director
Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.
ADDENDUM 1
Family Independence Program Work Requirements
Parents whose youngest child is under six years of age, must participate in approvable activities for a minimum of twenty (20) hours per week; and parents whose youngest child is six (6) years of age and older, must participate in work activity requirements at a minimum of thirty (30) or more hours per week. The description below defines how the state applies these requirements for both one parent and two-parent families.
One Parent Families:
During the first twenty-four (24) months of the Employment Plan, , the parent
may participate in a education/training activity, as appropriate, to help the
parent obtain stable full-time paid employment.
For parents whose youngest child is under age 6 twenty (20) hours per week of or for parents whose youngest child is over age six, thirty (30) hours per week of the following work activities are permissible:
Parents under age of twenty (20) without a high school diploma or the equivalent must successfully participate on a full-time basis in a program to secure such diploma or the equivalent. Parents age twenty (20) or older, without basic literacy or English literacy skills, must successfully participate on a full time basis in a program to secure such skills.; Parents age twenty (20) or older (and a parent under age twenty (20) who has a high school degree or the equivalent, or a parent under age (20) for whom attendance at a high school is determined to be inappropriate) may successfully participate in a vocational education, skills or job training program, including without limitation, a program of postsecondary education, which the Department determines is likely to result in regular full-time employment at wages sufficient to eliminate eligibility for cash assistance under the Family Independence Program.
The following parents in one-parent families can be deferred from work participation requirements, which begin in the twenty-fifth (25th) month:
Upon completion of any activity in the three (3) categories above prior to the thirty-sixth (36th) month of the individual’s Employment Plan, the formerly deferred parent shall be subject to the work activity requirements for parents whose Plans are more than twenty-four (24) months as outlined below.
Beginning with month twenty-five (25) of the Employment Plan, the parent in a one-parent family participates in one or more of the following work activities for at least twenty (20) hours per week if their youngest child is under age 6 or thirty (30) hours per week if their youngest child is six (6) years of age or older:
Two-Parent Families:
In the case of a two (2) parent family, beginning seven (7) days following completion of a family financial plan if requested, and the individual Employment Plan (s), or as soon as practicable thereafter, one (1) parent shall be engaged in countable work activities for thirty-five (35) hours per week, at least thirty (30) of which are attributable to one (1) or more of the following activities:
In the case of a two (2) parent family in which one (1) parent is engaged for at least thirty-five (35) hours per week in the work activities specified above, the other (second) parent must also participate in and complete the FIP assessment. Additionally, the second parent may elect to have an Employment Plan completed. If the second parent elects to complete an Employment Plan, s/he must participate in work activities during the month for at least twenty (20) hours per week in one (1) or more of the following activities:
If the two (2) parent family requests child care assistance one parent must
be participating in 35 hours per week of work or be disabled or the second parent
must be caring for a severely disabled child or participating in twenty (20)
hours of one of the above activities.
? training program approved by the Department, which may include supervised
work experience conducted at a job site;
Two-parent Families Deemed One-Parent Families:
In the event a parent in a two-parent family fails, without good cause, to meet
her/his work requirements, that parent shall be removed from the payment and
the family shall be deemed for all purposes under this act to include one parent.
The parent included in the family shall be the parent, which the department
determines has accepted primary responsibility for the care of the child (ren).
This parent, unless exempt, shall be required to comply with work requirements
for a parent in a one-parent family and shall be subject to the applicable work
penalties if the parent fails to do so.
