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Delaware TANF State Plan 10-1-23 to 09-30-26 Page 37 of 59

agencies will administer and supervise the program referred to in paragraph (1) for the fiscal year, which shall include assurances that local governments and private sector organizations- A. have been consulted regarding the plan and design of welfare services in the State so that services are provided in a manner appropriate to local populations; and B. have had at least 45 days to submit comments on the plan and the design of such services.

Structure of Agency

The Division of Social Services, a division of the State of Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, administers TANF. While DHSS is the lead agency, program administration is accomplished through a partnership between DSS, DOL, and DTC.

The Department of Health and Social Services is the cabinet level agency designated by the State as responsible for Delaware's public assistance programs as allowed under Title IV-A of the Social Security Act. Within the Department, the Division of Social Services administers these programs. (DSS organizational chart included as Appendix.)

State Agencies Involved

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services and the Department of Labor have a unique partnership. The two agencies are responsible for moving welfare clients to work. The two agencies have collaborated in developing Delaware's TANF program, in public information, in implementation, and continue to collaborate in managing the initiative.

The Delaware Transit Corporation in the Department of Transportation has joined the TANF collaborative team and has assisted to develop a statewide transportation system plan for TANF, using vans and other vehicle sources.

Involvement of Community, Education, Business, Religious, Local Government and Non-Profit Organizations to Provide Work

Every sector has been actively involved in the development of Delaware's TANF program and continues to be involved.

The TANF Employer Committee and The Social Services Advisory council were combined to create the Committee on Employment and Social Services.