Page 27

Delaware’s TANF State Plan 10-1-2017 to 9-30-2020

27

• If information is released under the procedures applying to CASA, pertinent details of the reasons for the release must be documented and written notification of this release must be sent to the last known address of the individual to whom the record refers.

4. DSS has the authority to disclose information concerning applicants and recipients provided it pertains to: • An investigation, prosecution, or criminal or civil proceeding conducted in connection with public assistance programs. • The administration of any other federal or federally assisted program that provides assistance, in cash or in kind, or services, directly to individuals on the basis of need. The agency must assure DSS that such information will remain confidential and will be used only to pursue services for the individual. Other means tested programs include the Supplemental Security Income Program, School Lunch and Breakfast Program, the Energy Assistance Program, and the Low Income Housing Program. • Other agencies (such as Children and Families First, Inc., Catholic Charities, Legal Aid, etc.) must provide written permission from the recipient before public assistance information may be released. • Other governmental agencies may obtain lists of recipients from DSS if the information will be used to perform services for DSS, and the agency can assure DSS that the lists will remain confidential.

v. Establish goals and take action to prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, with special emphasis on teenage pregnancies, and establish numerical goals for reducing the illegitimacy ratio of the State (as defined in section 403(a)(2)(C)(iii)).

Delaware is targeting youth by providing special services. Through the Department of Education, Delaware provides a family literacy program which includes parenting skills, training, and other services to teen parents and their children to prevent repeat pregnancies. Funds are allocated to Delaware’s Teen Pregnancy Prevention initiative to support activities for at-risk teens primarily in school- based health centers (SBHCs). In addition, wellness centers located in 27 high schools provide medical, health, and counseling services to high school students.

The Division of Public Heath directs abstinence education programming through Section 510, Title V Abstinence Education