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2530.00.00 SELF-SUFFICIENCY PLANS

The Self-sufficiency plan is completed with the client upon completion of the self-assessment, on the same day as the orientation appointment. The SSP is an agreement signed by the participant and the IMPACT case manager. Participation in allowable work activities must begin as soon as possible for TANF mandatory IMPACT participants and SNAP participants.

The Self-Sufficiency Plan (SSP) should: • Be developed based on the results of the self-assessment. • Be individualized and clear regarding specific goals and accompanying timelines for completion. • Be detailed including being: “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Result Oriented, and Time- Limited” (SMART). • Be designed to move the individual into appropriate employment or training.

Each SSP will address: • Have a clearly defined and realistic employment goal stating that the participant is expected to seek, accept, and maintain full-time employment unless participating in employment and training activities intended to prepare one for employment. • Include the strengths and barriers identified during the assessment process. • Include clearly defined activities necessary to achieve the primary goal of economic self- sufficiency for the family; listed under the “IMPACT Activity” on SSP. • Identify detailed steps, addressing identified barriers, that will help the individual follow through and/or fulfill the requirements of the activities through IMPACT supportive services or other community resources. • Address needed supportive services. • Identify anticipated outcome details including all aspects of the expectations and desired results. • Set realistic time frames for completing each activity by specifying a realistic “Assignment Date,” a “Projected Completion Date,” and “Weekly Participation Hours” that is anticipated will be needed to achieve self- sufficiency. Participation hours are entered daily for AJS and weekly for TANF and SNAP. • Address the TANF 24-month clock: A reminder of the time remaining for those individuals who are, or will be, subject to the 24-month limit to cash benefits. • Address the ABAWD 3-month clock: A reminder of the time remaining for those individuals who are subject to the 3-month limit for ABAWDs and should be included as part of the ‘actions or steps details of the IMPACT activity that will help the participant fulfill the work requirement. • Include signature of the participant and IMPACT case manager.

By signing the Self-Sufficiency Plan (SSP), participants agree to perform the activities assigned on the SSP. SSP’s are signed by case manager and participant and client must receive a copy of the signed SSP.