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STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA FFY 2024 STATE PLAN FOR TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES

disregard for up to a six-month period. Families choosing this option would also be eligible for transportation payments and other supportive services during the six-month period.

o During the COVID Pandemic, three additional months of support were given. During a natural disaster, state and/or national public health emergency this process may again be used.

Participants in either option may be eligible for the bonuses.

CHILD CARE

The West Virginia Department of Human Services provides childcare services in accordance with the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 and with the provisions of West Virginia’s State Plan for WV WORKS and the State Child Care and Development Fund Plan. Child Care services are made available to WV WORKS customers as a necessary support to assist them to participate in approved work activities.

All childcare services are currently administered by the Bureau for Family Assistance, Division of Early Care and Education. The agency operates a childcare certificate system that utilizes all major state and federal funds, including TANF, Social Services Block Grant and Child Care & Development Fund monies in a seamless single service delivery system. Families are not aware of the funding source to pay for their care. Care is available for families who are working, attending school, or looking for work. TANF funds are not used for non-TANF families who are unemployed or families attending college.

The Department certifies that childcare will be provided to families who are WV WORKS participants, who are transitioning to work from dependence on WV WORKS cash assistance, or who are at risk of becoming dependent on WV WORKS cash assistance if childcare services were not provided. Families with incomes under 150% of the current Federal Poverty Income Level will receive services on a sliding fee scale basis. Once in the system, services will continue until income exceeds 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. Care is available for families who are working, attending school or looking for work.

Families who meet eligibility guidelines may apply for financial assistance to cover the cost of childcare services and will have the Page 42