Page 19
STATE OF CONNECTICUT TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF) STATE PLAN 2021-2023 SECTION A - PART I C. SERVICES & NON-ASSISTANCE MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT (MOE) PROGRAMS EFFECTIVE DATE 10/1/20 – 9/30/23 Initial Submission 12/29/20 Revision Page 13 Promote public education concerning the financial and emotional responsibilities of fatherhood Assist men in preparing for the legal, financial and emotional responsibilities of fatherhood Promote the establishment of paternity at childbirth Encourage fathers, regardless of marital status, to foster their emotional connection to and financial support of their children Establish support mechanisms for fathers in their relationship with their children, regardless of their marital and financial status Integrate state and local services available for families TANF Purpose #4: Encourages the formation and maintenance of two parent families. Funding: Commingled funds that utilize state maintenance of effort funds.
C. 3. Safety Net Services - Department of Social Services Safety Net services are available to families who have exhausted the 21-month time limit of TFA benefits, have income below the payment standard for the appropriate family size, and are not eligible for an extension, regardless of the reason that an extension cannot be provided. This program works to 1) minimize the likelihood of harm to the children, 2) stabilize families and assist with access to resources to strengthen parenting skills and protect children and 3) assist families to attain and maintain employment through the identification and amelioration of existing psychological, personal and structural barriers. Services provided include the following. Home based outreach services during non-traditional hours (early mornings and weekends) Intensive family support services that are based on mutual trust and respect Availability of a regional clinical staff that is bilingual, bicultural, and available for in- home or office based clinical assessments, referrals and follow-up Comprehensive, qualitative assessment of family strengths and risk factors using a unique tool designed for the program Family focus and environmental systems approach These services are offered on behalf of families with a gross income less than seventy-five percent (75%) of the State Median Income (SMI).