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Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: The philosophy of the program is for clients to succeed; specifically, to obtain a job and be able to support themselves and their families without relying on public assistance. During orientation, HSR workers stress that clients will receive help with basic needs and securing employment, emphasizing what this additional assistance can do in terms of the monthly budget. Many clients are there because of job loss and are struggling to make ends meet while relying on savings and are encouraged by this approach. Additionally, the one-on-one attention from both the HSR and the ESP reinforces the work-first message and shows the commitment they have to connecting clients to work.

Keys to Success: Coordination between HSRs and ESPs has improved dramatically. As opposed to meeting within 30 days as required under the TANF legislation, clients now meet with their employment specialist within 10 days. Although this is mandated within the statute, it is facilitated by the fact that the HSR schedules the appointment, sometimes while the client is still in the office. Additionally, both departments share the same case management system, TEAMS, allowing them to share issues about the client directly through the case file.

Successes: Since July 2004, an average of 500 families have applied for DWP each month.

  • Four hundred of these families meet with an employment counselor to develop an employment plan.
  • Within the 4-month program, 58 percent of families begin employment, with an average wage of $10.52 per hour.
  • Approximately 42 percent of all families that leave DWP after the 4 months are diverted from applying for MFIP.

Challenges: Because DWP clients are not enrolled in the State’s TANF program, their work participation is not counted in the State’s rate in either the numerator or the denominator. In addition, the 32 vendors that work with the MFIP population have raised the concern that DWP is “creaming off” those who are ready and able to work, leaving those with greater barriers. However, given the reduced rolls, they likely have additional time to work with these clients one on one.

  • A number of pregnant women enroll in DWP. As they are not eligible for MFIP, the employment specialist must help connect them to activities that are appropriate and will help them prepare for life after the birth of their child, such as parent education classes and WIC.
  • In some cases, 4 months does not seem to be enough time to connect a client to work. Some clients and staff think there would be increased benefits with a 6-month program. At times, it is difficult to obtain all the verification documents necessary for a referral to the ESP. This is especially true for securing out-of-state birth certificates. Also, sanctions can play a significant role, as it may be difficult for a client to get back into compliance given the relatively short time limit of the program.