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Delaware TANF State Plan 10-1-23 to 09-30-26 Page 55 of 59

victims of domestic violence. Every worker is trained on administering the standardized instrument. As part of this training, staff learn how to recognize and assist individuals who are victims of domestic violence. DSS also has trained domestic violence resource workers at every DSS site. The resource worker supports the local office by assisting clients and staff in accessing domestic violence services, applying the domestic violence waiver to the TANF case, and promoting understanding and awareness of the challenges faced by clients. The resource worker receives training on domestic violence through an intensive two-day training called Domestic Violence 101. The resource workers also meet as a group at regularly scheduled meetings to learn about community resources and to discuss issues in accessing community supports. Community domestic violence agencies also attend these meetings to foster networking between DSS and the treatment community. Additional resources and workshops are also provided for the resource workers to ensure they have the most relevant and up to date information.

DSS believes that the methodology of resolving domestic violence situations as quickly as possible, as provided for under a strong statute, is the most appropriate and best course of action to assist current victims and to prevent future violence where possible.

Delaware certifies that the Family Development Profile establishes a procedure that screens for domestic violence and that, pursuant to a determination of good cause, program requirements may be waived if it is determined that compliance would make it more difficult for individuals to escape violence. However, decisions to waive compliance with TANF requirements will be made on an individual, case-by-case basis, and will not endorse an individual's failure to behave proactively to ameliorate destructive domestic violence situations.

Certified by the Chief Executive Officer of the State of Delaware

____________________ ________________________________________ Date

John C. Carney, Governor