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825 Chapter 4:Working with families • Section 10: Support service payments (07/2026) Support service payments Best practices For in depth detail and most recent updates, it is important to review the JOBS Activity Guide and JOBS Support Services Guide found on the TANF OWL staff resources page. The intent of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Job Opportunity Basic Skills (JOBS) support services payments are to provide individualized assistance for participants to support their ability to successfully engage in JOBS activities that promote: • Family Stability and well-being;. • Build skills for and offer education opportunities for reduce barriers to employment. • Accept job offers and retain employment. Support services are subject to the limitations of state and federal funding and must be used as part of a Personal Development Plan (PDP) with participants. Support service payments are authorized in advance of the individual beginning the activities identified in their PDP, meaning that they should be issued in time for the individual to be able to participate in the planned activities. Exploration of the participant’s strengths and resources as well as local community resources are part of the overall equation for support services. Ensuring those engaging in SSP TANF JOBS program have timely, appropriate, and equitable access to JOBS support services is a top priority for all. It is important all involved with the process around the state have a shared understanding of the intent, scope, and parameters of funding. ODHS staff are asked to utilize this guide to inform and guide practice and process at the local level. A few key areas to highlight: • Equity must guide all support service decisions. Staff are expected to:

Š Be aware of how bias and judgement can impact access to services

Š Recognize that systems may create barriers or inequities

Š Actively work to reduce those barriers

Š Engage in ongoing self-reflection and learning to improve practice • Support services are expected to be short-term supports, not long-term solutions. ODHS staff should:

Š Help families identify sustainable, long-term solutions

Š Have clear and honest conversations about realistic options

Š Connect families to culturally responsive community resources whenever possible

Š Encourage use of community and natural supports to promote ongoing stability

Š Regardless of a rural or urban setting, families must have access to support services funding in a consistent, equitable, and timely manner across the state. Guidance outlined within this guide and associated tools/resources are intended to provide clarity and promote consistency in how ODHS employees view and approve access to support services.