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38 North Carolina

communication, coordination, mutual trust and respect, policies, marketing, funding resources and cost sharing are all part of the discussion process.

Some counties have developed car ownership programs through partnerships with other organizations. Vehicles donated from private citizens, businesses, and/or local governments are given to select Work First families. There are many variations of car ownership programs operating in North Carolina. Most programs require that the Work First participant pay at least a portion of the costs associated with liability insurance, repairs, taxes, and license and/or title fees. Some counties use Work First Block Grant Funds to purchase vehicles, make down payments, and assist with regular car payments or car repairs for Work First families.

ELDERCARE TRAINING

North Carolina is committed to strengthening support for an increasingly diverse aging population, along with their families and natural support systems. Workforce development and training, community education and engagement strategies will ensure such opportunities exist.

North Carolina ranks eighth nationwide in population of adults age 65 and older, and by 2025 one in five North Carolina residents will be older than 65. In light of the steady increase in the number of older adults in North Carolina, the Work First program will continue to provide assistance to work eligible individuals to train for, seek and maintain employment in the eldercare workforce. Work First Employment Services job skills training, work experience and employment retention services include training and employment for certified nursing assistants (CNAs), home health aides, and other occupations related to eldercare. In addition, case management services provide employment retention services for positions that include CNAs, home health aides and other occupations related to eldercare. Assistance may include tuition, payment of course fees, books, instructional materials, special equipment (i.e., lab coats, stethoscopes, etc.) and supportive services such as child care and transportation services.

Consistent with North Carolina’s State Plan on Aging, the Division of Social Services will collaborate with the Division of Aging (DA) on eldercare issues and training needs. Local agencies are required to remain informed of local economic trends and provide employment services, including job skills training and job development, based on these trends.

HOMELESSNESS

Counties may use TANF and county funds to serve homeless families and families at risk of experiencing homelessness. These families must be TANF eligible or TANF participants. The services provided may include but are not limited to payments to cover basic needs, supportive services, and employment services. Counties may partner with local resources to coordinate and streamline services to prevent homelessness and promote self-sufficiency.