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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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refuse to cooperate in completion of the Family Plan. The record should be documented accordingly, and efforts should continue by the Case Manager to work with this client.

Because the CM is working with a specialized caseload in the CARES Program, these recipients tend to have larger obstacles to overcome in order to fully cooperate with work and training expectations. CARES does not allow sanctions; however, the CM should coach and counsel the client in resolving issues that may be interfering with cooperation.

17. CARES Conversion Conversion from the CARES Program may occur at the following times:

A. When the family continues to meet eligibility requirements, but fails to meet the disability policy stated in this chapter, then transfer the case to the TANF Program.

B. If a second parent is added to the BG and the family continues to meet eligibility requirements, then transfer the case to the Two-Parent Program.

NOTE: A full staffing of the case should be done reviewing eligibility criteria including months remaining on the program. The client would also have to cooperate in developing an updated Employment Plan for work activities. The staffing should also include any possibility for extensions. (Refer to TANF Manual, Chapter 18).

23.3 State Two-Parent Program In order to be included in the Two-Parent program there must be two or more parents in the TANF family. Legally married same-sex spouses receiving TANF benefits will be included in the Two- Parent program. The goal of the Two-Parent program is to assist the family in obtaining employment that will lead to self-sufficiency. In order to obtain full time employment, participants should be placed in activities that will lead to employment. Some participants may be ready to participate in activities designed for job placement while others need additional services and/or training before becoming job ready.

Case management of Two-Parent cases begins with an evaluation and assessment of the adults in the family. The evaluation will be an overall picture of the strengths and growth areas within a family unit. Based on educational needs and assessment results, goals will be developed for each household member with specific outcomes relating to protection, health, safety, enrichment, etc. It will contain an IEP for each WEI.

The assessment will include a summary of observations and information gathered by the CM concerning each household member.

The information gathered during the assessment is documented. This portion will be completed in the office.

1. Two-Parent Program Requirements Participants in the Two-Parent program must meet one of the following criteria:

A. When both parents are required to participate (both are coded “MA” on EMPR), each parent will be required to participate 30 hours per week. A minimum of 20 hours per