Page 36

experiencing homelessness. In addition, three (3) dedicated VDSs co-locate at two American Job Centers (Headquarters and 899 N. Capitol St NE) three (3) days a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to provide case management and E&T services to SNAP participants referred by AJC partners. As mentioned above, SNAP E&T VDSs collaborate with partner agencies and other community resources to provide outreach to participants through various means including community events, co-enrollment, and inter-agency outreach initiatives. How does the State agency ensure E&T participants receive targeted case management services through an efficient administrative process, per 7 CFR 273.7(c)(6)(ii)? Both internal DHS staff and third-party partner staff provide targeted case management services once per month (or every 30 days). This structure allows SNAP E&T participants to receive services starting right at their point of entry to the program and through the continuity of an ongoing relationship with their assigned case managers in most cases. Since staff providing case management are typically co-located where component activities are provided, participants can efficiently receive the services they need without additional burdens and steps to receiving case management services. The addition of hybrid case management services as an option for customers who prefer remote services has provided more opportunities for efficiency, with case management services now offered both in-person and remotely based on participant needs and preferences. How do your offered case management services support the participant in the E&T program and provide activities and resources that help the participant achieve program goals? The District’s case management services are designed to support participants in achieving their employment and training goals. These services are delivered primarily by DHS Vocational Development Specialists (VDSs), who serve as the front-line staff responsible for guiding participants through the program. Some of the key ways case management support participants include individualized assessments, targeted career plans, ongoing career coaching and navigation, barrier remediation, and customer collaboration. Through this comprehensive, participant-centered approach, case management in the District’s SNAP E&T program plays a critical role in helping individuals progress toward their long-term career goals. How does the SNAP State agency ensure the case management services offered do not act as an impediment to successful participation in E&T? The District ensures that services are participant-centered, flexible, and responsive to individual needs. The District operates a voluntary SNAP E&T program, which means participants choose to engage based on their interest and readiness. This foundational approach ensures that individuals are not compelled into services that may not align with their current circumstances. The following are specific examples of ways that the District ensures that case management is not an impediment to the success of E&T participants. 1. Streamlined Assessments: DHS uses Assessforce, a web-based assessment tool designed to be efficient and user-friendly. It incorporates skip logic and streamlined questions to reduce the time burden on participants while still capturing essential information to guide service planning. 2. Tailored Support: Case management is individualized. Vocational Development Specialists (VDSs) work with participants to develop action steps that reflect their goals, strengths, and barriers. These steps are not mandatory requirements but serve as supportive guidance, similar to an Individual Employment Plan. 3. Flexible Access and Communication: 1/28/26, 11:03 AM State Plan DC FY26 - Original Submission https://dam-fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/microsite/snapet-dcfy26stateplan//index.html 36/179