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Explain how else childcare is paid for. Childcare payments vary by EF PO. All payment methods are offered, with the exception of a contract for dependent care. If dependent care agencies have a waiting list or otherwise cap the number of enrolled dependents, how will the State agency ensure E&T participants with dependent care needs receive dependent care? In cases where dependent care isn’t available, EF POs will inform clients to use a friend or family member to provide childcare. Friends and/or family members who are not a part of the client’s SNAP household are eligible to receive participant reimbursement payments for providing dependent care. How does the State agency ensure that the participant has the necessary participant reimbursements to begin participation in the E&T program? Through a combination of policy guidance, communication protocols, and participant-centered service delivery, the State ensures that all participants are equipped with the resources necessary to begin and sustain their participation in E&T. Eligibility workers and EF Program Operators (EF POs) are directed to inform clients of available participant reimbursements during the initial SNAP eligibility interview and again during the first EF appointment. This dual-point communication ensures that clients are aware of support services before beginning participation in E&T. To support immediate access to E&T services, EF POs use various methods to provide participant reimbursements in a timely and accessible manner. For example, many EF POs have bus passes or gas vouchers available on-site, or utilize EBT card loading to support transportation needs for clients attending their first EF appointment. Comprehensive employability assessments, conducted at the first appointment and throughout participation, identify and address logistical or financial barriers, including transportation, clothing, tools, or fees required to participate in components. This ensures that participant reimbursements are not only available at entry but are continually aligned with the client’s evolving needs. Additionally, EF POs use program marketing materials, such as flyers and intake forms, to communicate what reimbursements are available and how to request them. This helps normalize the availability of support services and empowers clients to access what they need to engage in the program from the outset. 50