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STATE OF CONNECTICUT TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF) STATE PLAN 2024-2026

Effective Date: 10/1/23 – 9/30/26 ☐ Initial Submission Date: 12/31/2023 ☒ Revision Date: 04/15/2024 Page: 28

D. 8. Young Adult Services - Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

The Young Adult Services (YAS) program was established to facilitate the successful transition of young adults from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to the adult mental health system and support the acquisition of the necessary skills for adulthood. YAS serves young adults who often present with extensive histories of trauma as well as complex psychiatric and social/behavioral needs. YAS currently has Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with DCF, the Court Support Services Division (CSSD) and Carelon to facilitate early engagement, referral, assessment and transition planning for youth and young adults.

These youth are especially vulnerable to engaging in risk-taking behaviors within the community, including high-risk sexual behaviors, which place them at heightened risk for unwanted pregnancies. YAS program staff help to identify these risk factors and facilitate intervention to mitigate these risks. All aspects of YAS services are trauma-informed, built upon the principles of trauma treatment, predicated upon a young adult’s individualized needs, and are voluntary, strength-based, person-centered, and recovery-oriented.

YAS programs operate at both state-operated and private non-profit Local Mental Health Authorities throughout the state. YAS programs aim to create a “community of care” that fosters mutual respect and encourages collaborative partnerships with young adults, their families, identified significant persons, community service providers and other stakeholders. Specific supports provided include clinical treatment, employment/education support, life skill development, peer support, housing assistance, and perinatal support services. There are no income guidelines for this program.

TANF Purpose # 3: Prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies.

Funding: Segregated Federal TANF funds

D. 9. Safety Net Services Barrier Resolution Program – Department of Social Services

This program is designed to identify and immediately address barriers to self-sufficiency. Barrier resolution services are provided to families receiving TFA benefits and those who are engaged with employment services. This program provides TFA/JFES participants with in-depth home-based assessments, intensive case management, and referral to community resources. The goal is to increase successful employment outcomes and reduce the likelihood of ongoing dependency on TANF benefits. Families with serious conditions are evaluated for an incapacity exemption from the time- limited program.