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TANF BACKGROUND

The elimination of an open-ended entitlement program changed the focus of welfare from providing financial assistance to one of assisting families as they move into work and ultimately self-sufficiency. In May 1994, South Dakota began promoting self-sufficiency through the implementation of a welfare reform 1115 waiver. The objectives of that waiver were to strengthen families by increasing parental responsibilities, reducing long term dependency on the welfare system, and encouraging employment. With its implementation the eligibility process changed, whereby the primary emphasis in working with recipients/applicants moved from eligibility and benefit determination to having two equally important components: 1) determining eligibility and 2) promoting work first and self-sufficiency. The TANF philosophy and goals of the program were developed through discussion between top state and Department officials and local Department and partner-agency staff, and representatives from the private/public sector.

Reinforcement of the goals and ongoing training is provided to staff at the state, district and local levels as the program continues to evolve. Performance of staff is evaluated through established review processes as well as less formal forums such as one-on-one supervision, partnering with co-workers and intradepartmental staff is used to provide staff with relevant skills to meet the goals of the program.

GOALS, RESULTS, AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

The overarching goal for the Department is to use TANF funds so: e Children are cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives. e Parents are less dependent on governmental benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage. e Out-of-wedlock pregnancies are prevented or at least reduced. e Strong two-parent families will be formed and maintained.

The TANF program achieves these goals through the following outcomes: e Increase employment among adults who receive welfare. e Increase family income, help them get jobs with health insurance benefits, and improve the wellbeing of children from welfare families.

e Encourage more participants to accomplish educational and training milestones. o GED or high school diploma. o Vocational training. o Short-term skills training projects.

e Assist participants with developing self-sufficiency plans.

e Help applicants avoid public assistance by offering a diversion program.

e Reduce recidivism by connecting participants with: © Transitional childcare or medical benefits.