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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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NOTE: Do not tell a client they have a learning disability and do not refer to a client as having a learning disability. Only a qualified psychologist can diagnose a learning disability.

5. CARES Family Assessment The family assessment will focus on other conditions of the family that impact the individual’s ability to participate in program activities and or seek other needed services. During the family assessment, areas to consider may include but are not limited to the following:

• Demographics • Employment (e.g. skills, history, legal barriers, career interests, language • Education (e.g. highest grade level, learning disabilities, other diploma) • Housing and transportation • General health • Mental health • Substance abuse • Domestic violence – safety • Child Care and child well-being

6. CARES Family Plan The Family Plan will be completed for the family of CARES participants. It will be an overall picture of the strengths and growth areas within a family unit.

The evaluation will include a summary of observations and information gathered by the CM concerning each household member. The CM will document the findings on the CARES Mutual Responsibility Agreement (DSS Form 1231). This portion of the Family Plan may be completed in the office.

The Family Plan includes:

1. DSS Form 1257, TANF Family Success Assessment (TFSA); and 2. DSS Form 1022, Individual Employment Plan (IEP) (May not be mandatory for all CARES participants)

Based on medical or physical needs, goals will be developed for each household member with specific outcomes relating to health, safety, enrichment, etc. All CARES participants must have a Mutual Responsibility Agreement while some may need an Employment Plan.

The Family Plan is a working document that must be updated as changes occur. It may be necessary to adjust time frames, activities, support services, vocational goals, etc., as necessary. Document only in the area where the change occurred. It will not be necessary to complete the entire TFSA in order to update changes.

7. CARES Case Plans - Development When developing the CARES Mutual Responsibility Agreement, it is the intent of the CARES program to evaluate the role of the disabled adult not only in a work setting, but also, the ability to