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Submitted: December 17, 2005

The following annual report complies with requirements of 45 CFR Part 260, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Final Rule and TANF-ACF-PI, October 24, 2001.

The Rhode Island Department of Human Services submits this annual report on both TANF funded programs and services and on those State Maintenance of Effort (MOE) programs and services provided to families eligible for and/or receiving cash assistance during Fiscal Year 2005. In Rhode Island, the Family Independence Act (FIA) of 1996 is the State’s welfare reform legislation. This Act, in combination with TANF, provides the framework for Rhode Island’s policies and programs designed to help families receiving cash assistance prepare for and become employed. In addition the combination of FIA and TANF are the fundamental basis for providing on-going transitional services to those parents leaving cash assistance to enter employment.

This report describes services and expenditures under TANF/FIA Programs, Segregated State Programs, and Separate State Programs. Attachments have been organized in accord with TANF Program Instruction Number TANF-ACF-PI-01-06 dated October 24, 2001.

Rhode Island is committed to meet the four (4) statutory goals of TANF through its comprehensive approach to the Family Independence Program (FIP) which is Rhode Island’s TANF program. In significant ways, FIP policies and programs support TANF goals, which are to:

(a) provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
(b) end dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting
job preparation, work and family unity;
(c) prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establish annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies; and
(d) encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.

Family Independence Program

The Family Independence Act of 1996 established the Family Independence Program (FIP) which requires that a newly eligible FIP parent must be seen by a social worker within forty-five (45) days of qualifying for cash assistance. The new FIP participant is provided a formal family needs assessment as well as an employment assessment at this initial appointment. Based upon the assessment the participant and the social worker develop an employment plan that charts the work activities to be engaged in to become employed. It is within this context that we offer the definitions of the State’s work activities.

ATTACHMENT A

I. Definitions of State’s Work Activities

45 CFR 261.30 encompasses the 12 categories of work activities listed in Section 407(d) of the Social Security Act for purposes of determining the State’s required minimum work participation rate (s). Each State defines the activities that fall under each of these 12 categories and provides them to us. This item is for that purpose. Therefore, your definitions should include the kinds of work activities that apply to each of the 12 categories.

1. Unsubsidized Employment
Employer paid work in either private or public sector employment.

2. Subsidized Private-sector Employment
Wage subsidies are provided to those employers who agree to hire a FIP parent who may have limited work skills but who can learn specific job related skills within a period of six (6) to nine (9) months. All or part of the individual’s cash assistance grant is diverted to a wage pool from which employers are reimbursed $2.50 per hour for part of the wages they pay to the FIP employee. It is expected that the employee will be retained in an unsubsidized job.

3. Subsidized Public-sector Employment
Part of employees hourly wage is subsidized and the public employer agrees to hire the FIP parent after the employer receives the wage subsidy for a period of six (6) to (9) months. The FIP grant is used to contribute $2.50 per hour toward the wage subsidy.

4. Unpaid Work Experience
Unpaid Community Work Experience Program is a placement in a public or non-profit agency for a period of three (3) to six (6) months. These placements offer supervised work training and establish a recent work history and experience that can be used for a resume. Frequently these placements lead to on-going full time employment either with their work experience employer or with another employer. This work experience may also include work related literacy and community work experience programs, which are operated by Community Based Organizations (CBO’s) and in non-traditional settings for limited English-speaking participants.

5. Paid Work Experience/Transitional Jobs
Paid Work Experience is an option for individuals who have, through assessment and duration on assistance been found to face significant challenges in their employability and need an intensive monitoring at a community worksite where ongoing supervision and direction can ultimately lead to placement into unsubsidized employment. This learning and earning model provides appropriate mix

6. On-the-Job Training
On-the-job-training (OJT) is a paid on the job site skills training placement for a period of up to six (6) months. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) or Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds are used to reimburse employers for the provision of training. FIP parents are eligible for assistance through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). Full time OJT’s are developed by WIA staff and may be approved as a work activity of the FIP parent’s Employment Plan. OJT’s may also be funded by Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) for eligible FIP parents with disabilities. Full time employment is the ultimate outcome for successful trainees

7. Job Search and Job Readiness Assistance
Individual and/or group workshops are given on resume preparation, job hunting, interviewing skills, workplace competencies, problem-solving skills, punctuality, positive work attitudes, and interpersonal skills. Participants are assisted in identifying and pursuing employment opportunities. After placement, follow up with the newly employed and advice may continue for up to six months after the placement.

a) Job Readiness
Job readiness programs are primarily for FIP participants who have no recent work history; no clearly defined vocational goals; and few or no appropriate work habits. These programs offer counseling, classroom teaching, and role-playing, sometimes combined with unpaid work experience. Participants learn problem-solving skills and are able to identify their employment related strengths and abilities. They learn what work place expectations are and the appropriate work habits that result from these expectations like; punctuality, regular attendance, co-worker relationships, relationship with supervisors, and positive work attitudes. In addition when necessary they receive remedial education to assure that they have the basic education necessary to obtain and maintain employment.

b) Job Search
The goal of Job Search is full-time employment. Participants engage in either individual job search or group job search. This is an activity available for those participants completing vocational education/job training programs or for those who need assistance to either enter or re-enter the workforce. Participants receive help with resume writing, job applications, and interviewing skills. They are assisted in structuring their employer contacts and their job search activities are monitored.

8. Community Service Programs
Community service programs involve placement in public or private non-profit organizations that perform public services. The participant is able to develop basic work skills and establish a work history that can be reflected on a resume, while at the same time meeting some of the community needs.

9. Vocational Education Training
Vocational education training provides a range of educational programs intended to assist participants to prepare for and acquire employment. The FIP parent may engage in vocational training, basic education, secondary education, and/or postsecondary vocational education as appropriate to obtain employment.

a) Vocational Training
FIP parents are frequently best served by participating in non-degree programs, which are less than one year in duration and provide trainees with certificates of mastery in skill areas, which meet the needs of employers in today’s job market. These areas include certified nursing assistants, phlebotomists, computer basics such as word processing, spreadsheets, and data entry, banking/financial services, teacher assistants, etc.

b) Basic Education
Many individuals on FIP need basic literacy programs, adult basic education, vocational English-as a Second-Language, and remediation before they can compete for a job. These activities assist the parent to achieve the necessary reading, writing, and mathematics skills necessary to function in the world of work.

c) Secondary Education
This is a targeted service for those who attend traditional high school or an alternative high school and who will receive a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED), or who attend non-post-secondary education, skills, or job training programs.

d) Postsecondary Vocational Education
Post secondary vocational education is an education placement at a college or proprietary school that will lead the participant to employment requiring specialized training or skills. Each participant must be tested before they are approved for this activity and must score at or above 9.0 for reading, mathematics, and language levels. Those approved for such activities must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or above.

10. Education Directly Related To Securing Employment
Education related to securing employment includes basic literacy and English-as-a Second Language (ESL), both necessary for the FIP parent to secure employment.

11. Secondary Education/High School
Satisfactory attendance at a secondary school or program that will lead to either a GED or a high school diploma. The FIP participant may attend GED preparation classes to prepare for the GED examination. These classes often are work oriented and may even take place at a work site or be combined with skills training.

12. Provision of Child Care for FIP parents
A FIP parent may provide childcare to another FIP parent who is a participant in a community service program.

Supplement to Work Definitions
Specific Programs Offered to FIP Participants to assure access to
Education and Work Activities

Rapid Job Entry Program
This is an activity is provided through the R. I. Department of Labor and Training for participants who want to work as soon as possible and need little remediation and help with job readiness/job search, job development and/or job placement. RJEP services are provided throughout the state and are a regular service of netWORKri One Stop career Centers. To assure that the participant remains employed, phone contacts and other retention activities are made over a period of six months following the date of employment. Approximately 224 FIP parents were served by this program during FFY 2005.

Community College of Rhode Island CCRI – REACH Program
The Department has a contract through the CCRI REACH Program to provide academic testing and vocational assessment for FIP parents in order to develop a realistic FIP Employment Plan. This data is shared with the FIP Social Caseworker and is used to help guide parents into the most appropriate job preparation track. In addition to these services, some remediation services are provided to FIP students who have an approved FIP Plan to attend a 2-year post-secondary vocational education program at the College. REACH workers provide on-going monitoring of satisfactory attendance and achievement in accord with standards outlined in FIP Regulations. A number of students graduating from the program are assisted into employment. Approximately 1650 FIP parents have been served by this program during FFY 2005.

Office of Rehabilitation – Learning Disabilities Project
Within the Department, the Office or Rehabilitation services works closely with the FIP/TANF social caseworkers to identify FIP parents who may have learning disabilities. Where such preliminary information is revealed, these FIP parents are given access to psychologists who specialize in the evaluation and diagnosis of Learning Disabilities. When a diagnosis is determined, this information is sent back to the FIP social caseworker, who then works to find the most appropriate resources to help these individuals in their pursuit of employment. If reasonable accommodations are called for, the ORS-LD specialist helps to acquire what is needed and thus mitigate certain barriers to employment. Approximately 67 new FIP parents have been served by this Program during FFY 2005; 2039 since this service was initially offered to FIP parents in 2001.

Dorcas Place Adult and Parent Learning Center
Dorcas Place Adult and Parent Learning Center has been under direct contract with DHS since the inception of FIP. It has provided basic literacy skills classes for FIP participants as well as a supportive atmosphere that promotes success. The literacy classes provide thirty hours per week of education and have incorporated a work-based competency component into the learning model. Approximately 118 FIP parents have been served by this program during FFY 2005.

Adolescent Self-Sufficiency Collaboratives (ASSC’s)
Pregnant and parenting teens receive intensive case management services. Services include direct assistance with staying in school, returning to school, or if other activities are more appropriate, the ASSC helps FIP parents access alternative programs. These may include WIA, alternative high school and/or post secondary vocational education. Minor teen moms are assessed for appropriate adult supervised living arrangements. When risk factors are identified, minor pregnant and parenting teens are carefully screened for possible placement in a New Opportunity Home (NOH). In the NOH both mother and baby are able to live together along with specially trained case managers. In addition, younger adolescents are offered special workshops on youth responsibility, much of which focuses on male responsibility and positive youth development. Five (5) collaborative agencies throughout the state work with various community based organizations such as CAP agencies and visiting nurse programs to assure that the unique needs of pregnant and parenting teens are addressed. Approximately 1,500 teen parents have been served through this program.

R. I. Department of Education (RIDE) - Project Opportunity
A direct contract with RIDE has been in place since the inception of the Family Independence Program. The services address adult needs for basic education, literacy and GED preparation classes. In addition a limited number of parents can participate in a work site literacy training program, which also assists with job placement and job advancement. A core element within all Project Opportunity programs is a work readiness component. RIDE sub-contracts with approximately thirteen (13) adult education centers and community based organizations to deliver these specialized services to FIP parents. Approximately 441 FIP parents have been served through this program during FFY 2005.

FIP Certified Vendor Program:
The FIP Certified Vendor Program is a job training and placement certificate program which prepares FIP parents for full-time employment. This placement through training model was established by DHS as a pre-certification program for qualified training organizations. The pre-certification process provides DHS and its FIP customers with a list of pre-certified vendors/organizations who have a demonstrated track record of successful training and placement of FIP adults into long-term unsubsidized jobs. FIP participants are able to choose among these pre-certified organizations and enroll in programs that enhance their employability and facilitate their ability to obtain employment. DHS participates in the payment for job training of less than 12 months duration offered by these organizations. Job placement services are a required component of this program.
Parents are strongly encouraged to access other funding sources for which they may be eligible to pay for the training, e.g., Pell Grants, scholarships, Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Individual Training Accounts. The DHS only contributes toward the cost of programs pre-approved by DHS. Approximately 599 FIP parents have been served by this Program during FFY 2005.

RIte Works Employment Program
The Department has established a special unit of workers to provide ongoing support and technical assistance to FIP parents seeking employment and who need extra support in this effort. RIte Works provides support in developing subsidized and unsubsidized job placement opportunities; help with job site advancement; on-the-job problem solving, employer intervention and advocacy; technical assistance with child care, transportation, and other work support interventions. During 2005, this unit of five (8) specialized workers, provided support to FIP/TANF parents and FIP/TANF staff within DHS’s Family Service Centers and through co-location at 3 of the state’s netWORKri One-stop Career Centers. This tie-line provides valuable interface with other resources offered by partner agencies such as Labor, Education, Regional Workforce Investment Boards (WIB’s), Economic Development, community-based organizations, and with private industry.

The Rite Works Employment and Retention Unit serves as the FIP Program’s clearinghouse for FIP parents who have been on assistance more than 24 months. Approximately 800 FIP parents have been served through this program during FFY 2005.

Supportive Employment/Transitional Jobs Program:
During Federal Fiscal Year 2005, DHS added two different work activities primarily for individuals who were on assistance for more than 24 months and needed more intensive support and experience prior to fully independent employment. Through a formal bidding process, five (5) community based organizations were awarded performance based contracts to offer either supportive employment and/or transitional job opportunities to FIP parents referred for such services. Typically, individuals referred were found to have significant difficulties accessing jobs or keeping jobs through the more traditional services offered by the Department. Parents referred for this service mix may have had issues with mental health/substance abuse or have demonstrated major resistance to following independent work development activities. Some possessed significant language barriers which made independent job search very difficult. Since this program was first implemented in December 2004, approximately 547 FIP parents have been referred for services.

Sstarbirth of Rhode Island
This very unique program provides temporary residential services for FIP mothers and their children as these parents transition from incarceration and/or substance abuse treatment facilities back into the community. This transitional home provides each family with their own bedroom, and shared living space in a relatively new, state of the art building. Residents can receive help with basic education and/or job readiness skills. Some FIP parents may be transported to a local adult learning center while their babies are cared for in the facility by on-site licensed childcare. Eighteen (18) low income parents with children have been served through this program during FFY 2005.

II. Description of transitional services provided to families no longer receiving assistance due to employment.
Indicate the kinds of help provided to working families that received, but no longer receive, “assistance” as defined in 45 CFR 260.31.

Rhode Island has made a significant commitment to support low income working families, particularly working families who are no longer receiving cash assistance. Eligibility standards are based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Both the child care (225% FPL) and health care/RIte Care (250% FPL) eligibility standard have been established at levels high enough to cover families until earnings and income are sufficient to enable them to support themselves and their children through long term employment. All families leaving FIP due to employment are automatically considered for eligibility to receive health care, childcare and food stamps. In addition to these three major transitional work supports, FIP provides job retention and job advancement assistance through the RIte Works Job Retention Unit. The following describes these transitional supports.

1. Child Care Assistance Program
Under the Family Independence Act, childcare is an entitlement for FIP parents in training, education and/or employment and is considered an entitlement for low-income parents who leave cash assistance due to employment. Additionally, childcare for working families is not a time limited benefit in Rhode Island. However, it is limited by income guidelines, which are at or below 225% of FPL. The FIP Program determines eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for families as they transition off cash assistance due to employment. When the family requests child care assistance at the time of termination from FIP, the FIP caseworker updates the current child care application before the active case is electronically referred to the Child Care Assistance Program; in order to prevent any unnecessary interruption of child care services for working parents. A CCAP worker maintains the case file and redetermines eligibility for CCAP every six (6) months or sooner if circumstances change within the working parent’s household.

2. Food Stamp Program
Continuation in the Food Stamp Program for those whose earnings do not exceed income guidelines, is extremely important to the family’s ability to maintain themselves in employment.

When a household is discontinued on cash assistance, food stamp benefits are not automatically discontinued. These households are considered Non-Public Assistance (NPA) households and are served by the NPA Food Stamp Offices for the duration of the household’s food stamp eligibility. If there is sufficient information to determine continuing food stamp eligibility, the eligibility worker closes the FIP case and approves the Food Stamp case in the electronic INRHODES system using the new income and circumstances until the end of the certification period. As with childcare, this benefit is not defined by time limits, but rather by meeting income and eligibility standards.

3. Extended Medical Assistance
Rhode Island considers health coverage to be a vital support for all low income families, and has made a significant investment to insure that eligible working families do not lose health coverage when they close to cash assistance due to employment.

Extended Medical Assistance is available to FIP and Section 1931 MA-only families who lose eligibility for Section 1931 MA due to increased income. When a family closes to cash assistance due to increased income, continuing eligibility for Medical Assistance is evaluated in terms of both the Extended Medical Assistance policy as well as for Section 1931 policy. Parents may be eligible up to 185% FPL and children are eligible up to 250% FPL.

During FY 2002 the Department instituted a new cost sharing policy. In effect, this means that families with incomes greater than 150% FPL are now required to pay a monthly premium. During FY 2005, virtually 100% of the FIP cases that closed to cash assistance due to employment received extended medical assistance through DHS RIte Care/RIte Share.

4. RIte Works Job Retention Services
Because many FIP parents face difficulties during the period of transition from cash assistance to unsubsidized long term employment, RIte Works staff provide ongoing support and technical assistance to those families who have closed to cash assistance and are now employed. Support includes help with job site advancement; on-the-job problem solving, employer intervention and advocacy; technical assistance with childcare, transportation, and other work support interventions.

III. Description of how State will reduce the amount of assistance payable to a family when an individual refuses to engage in work without good cause pursuant to 45 CFR 261.14.

In situations when compliance and/or successful engagement in an Employment Plan are at issue, FIP/TANF parents are offered a conciliation process, which is intended to provide the parent with an opportunity to prove good cause for non-compliance with her/his Employment Plan. Where conciliation fails to satisfy the criteria for good cause, the parent is subject to the penalties. In September 2004 DHS changed the FIP regulations for parents who did not comply with participation requirements in an Employment Plan. The penalty imposed for the first 24 months of non-compliance is the removal of the parent’s share of the FIP cash assistance grant. However, for those parents who were noncompliant beyond 24 months, whether or not consecutive, a full family sanction was imposed which resulted in closure of the entire family’s cash assistance benefit. In September 2005, another change in FIP regulation was implemented resulting in a full family sanction after 18 months of non-compliance with a FIP Employment Plan.

1. Work Penalties – First 24 Months of Employment Plan (10/2004-08/2005)
                                First 18 Months of Employment Plan (09/2005)

During the first twenty-four (24) months of the parent’s Employment Plan (eighteen (18) months as of September 1, 2005), the amount of cash assistance for her/his family shall be reduced in any month by the parent’s portion of the family’s cash benefit in which the parent fails, without good cause, to comply with the Employment Plan. For a family size of two (2), the benefit reduction equals one hundred five dollars ($105.00). The penalty becomes effective on the next payroll date after the adverse action period. The parent is notified of the penalty by an electronically generated notice.

2. Work Penalties – Beginning Month 25 of Employment Plan (10/ 2004-08/2005)
                                Beginning Month 18 of the Employment Plan (as of 09/2005)

Parents who have been noncompliant for 24 months (18 months as of September 2005), whether or not consecutive, have received a full family sanction meaning closure of the entire family’s cash assistance benefit

IV. The average monthly number of payments for childcare services made by the State through the use of disregards, by the following types of childcare providers:

Rhode Island continues to experience a major change in the use of the childcare disregard option. Since implementation of TANF/FIP, there has been more than a 75% decrease in the number of parents choosing the child care disregard and a 53% reduction from FY 2003 usage. Rhode Island has heavily invested in access to and availability of childcare by increasing reimbursement rates and by improving standards of quality. These actions have greatly contributed to this major change in parental choice.
Provider Type Average Monthly Disregards

i. Licensed/Regulated In-Home Care — N/A
ii. Licensed/Regulated Family Child Care — 5
iii. Licensed/Regulated Group Home Child Care — 0
iv. Licensed/Regulated Center-based Child Care — 2
v. Legally Operating In-Home by non-relative — 14
vi. Legally Operating In-Home by a relative — 19
vii. Legally Operating Family Child Care by a non-relative — 28
viii. Legally Operating Family Child Care by a relative — 29
ix. Legally Operating Group Family CC by a non-relative — N/A
x. Legally Operating Group Family Child Care by relative — 7
xi. Legally Operating Center-based Child Care — 2

Data based on actual FIP child care disregard data from INRHODES monthly reports, which have been averaged for FY 2005, as well as estimated usage rates reflected in Brown University Child Care Disregard Study of October 1998.

V. State has adopted the Family Violence Option and seeks Federal recognition of its good cause domestic violence waivers under 46 CFR 260.50-58. The following is a) description of strategies and procedures in place to ensure that victims of domestic violence receive appropriate alternative services and b) aggregate figure for the total number of good cause domestic violence waivers granted.

Rhode Island implemented the Family Violence Option (FVO) as part of the Family Independence Program in August of 1998. FIP staff provides notification about the FVO to all FIP cash applicants and recipients. Notification includes information on work waivers and child support waivers for FIP victims of domestic violence. A list of resources for victims, and a description of the process for applying for a FVO waiver are provided to all applicants and recipients. The FVO notices are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Laotian and Cambodian.

The FVO requires the FIP social caseworker to screen for indications of domestic violence or risk of domestic violence. When identified the worker must refer those who are or might be at risk for domestic violence to the domestic violence advocates under contract to the Department in order that our client can access the necessary services. Advocates are immediately available by cell phone. These advocates provide in-depth services to FIP cash recipients including assessments and recommendations for waivers of child support and/or work requirements. Additionally, they provide crisis counseling, safety planning, bilingual services, court advocacy, and referrals to other resources such as emergency shelters, support groups, and mental health services.

Rhode Island’s FVO Program has received national recognition as a model program. Results of an evaluation conducted by MCH, Inc. in FY 2000 indicated that the program is reaching the clients most in need of services and concluded that the collaboration of FIP Program with the R. I. Coalition Against Domestic Violence and its subcontractor have been very successful.

New Waiver Assessment in 2005 — 210
Waiver Re-Assessments in FFY-2005 — 128
Total Assessments in FFY 2005 — 338

Total Waivers Approved by FIP/TANF in FFY 2005 — 327

VI. Description of non-recurrent, short-term benefits, as defined in 45 CFR 260.31(b)(1)

1. Clothing Allowance for Children
The clothing allowance is a one-time payment issued separately from the regular FIP payroll for children of cash assistance families. The amount of the clothing allowance is determined subject to the amount appropriated by the General Assembly for that purpose.

A clothing allowance of thirty dollars ($30.00) is issued for each child between the ages of four (4) and eighteen (18) who is FIP eligible in the month of August. The allowance is available on the first Friday of August at 5:00 a.m. through EBT. All cases approved after the first Friday of August will have access to their clothing allowance as of the date of approval. New cases receive information with their acceptance letter.

2. Emergency Expenses/Catastrophic Assistance
Assistance with emergency expenses is provided in the event of a documented catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature. This emergency assistance may be authorized for the replacement of destroyed clothing for FIP families and/or repair or replacement of essential household equipment and furnishings. Procedures for authorization of catastrophic assistance include prompt reporting of the incident at the address of record by the family, documentation of the catastrophe by the DHS Housing Services Unit (HSU) social caseworker, and the preparation of a report for the review and approval by the Regional Manager. The appropriate FIP eligibility technician authorizes payment of catastrophic assistance.

3. Emergency Moving Expenses
Assistance with emergency moving expenses may be provided to FIP families who are forced to move as a result of a threat to the family’s health and well being. DHS must pre-approve the expenditure. Reimbursement for moving expenses is limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200.00). Payment for a move is limited to only once in a twelve (12) month period unless (a) the need for a move results from a fire or natural disaster, or (b) a waiver may be granted by the Regional Manager for unusual or exceptional circumstances based on a report by the Housing Services Unit. Procedures for authorization of moving expenses include: the family’s meeting the criteria for moving, finding a new location, having the new location pass pre-rental inspection prior to the actual move, and approval by the HSU social caseworker who must verify the moving bill before authorizing reimbursement.

4. Emergency Housing Assistance Program
The emergency housing assistance program is funded through the state of Rhode Island and operated by Community Action Agencies throughout the state. This program is designed to assist eligible low-income families who are experiencing a temporary housing crisis that either threatens or actually results in a loss of housing.
Short-term emergency housing assistance payments may be made directly to landlords or lending institutions in the form of a check made payable to both the landlord/lending institution and the client (co-signatures required) in order to meet the short-term emergency housing needs of eligible households. Funds may be used for:
• Actual monthly rent in an amount not to exceed $600 per month for a maximum of two (2) months; or
• Mortgage payments (principal and interest only) in an amount not to exceed $600 per month for a maximum of two (2) months; or
• Security deposit in an amount not to exceed $600, and if necessary, one month's rent; the combined total of which cannot exceed $1,200.00.

Since this program was not designed to be an entitlement program, the maximum level of financial assistance provided to a household is based on an amount not to exceed $1200.00 needed to resolve the temporary housing crisis with assurances that the household will be able to meet future housing costs in order to maintain permanent housing. Eligibility is determined both on a financial criteria as well as special needs based criteria. The Executive Director of the CAP Agency must approve any circumstances deemed by a CAP Agency as creating a temporary emergency housing crisis. All exceptions requested must be approved by the Department of Human Services on a case-by-case basis, prior to a disbursement of financial assistance under the guidelines of this program. Long-term shelter residents and long-term homeless (i.e. 90 days or more) who cannot, under current circumstances maintain a permanent address are not targeted for assistance under these program funds.

VII. A description of the grievance procedures the State has established and is maintaining to resolve displacement complaints, pursuant to section 407(f)(3) of the Social Security Act.

The department assures that no individual is displaced as a result of FIP parents being placed in subsidized employment in accord with section 407(f)(3) through the signed agreement with employers who participate in the FIP subsidy job program. This agreement articulates the prohibition of displacing anyone in an already existing job and requires the participating employer to certify that no person will be displaced as a result of hiring FIP parents who qualify to receive a short-term (six to nine month) wage subsidy.
Furthermore, the State has defined grievance procedures, which cover the displacement of individuals with disabilities through the Department of Labor and Training and would apply such provisions to address appropriate displacement grievances through that process.

VIII. Summary of State programs and activities directed at the third and fourth
Statutory purposes of TANF, as specified in CFR 260.20(c) and (d).

a) Summarize below, the State programs and activities directed at preventing and reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establishing annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies as specified in (TANF Purpose-3): and
b) Summarize below, the State programs and activities directed at encouraging the formation and maintenance of two-parent families (TANF purpose 4).

1. Programs and activities directed at preventing and reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, with special emphasis on teenage pregnancies, and establishing numerical goals for reducing the out-of-wedlock pregnancy rate.

Crafted to implement requirements of both the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act and the R. I. Family Independence Act, the Department of Human Services funds five (5) Adolescent Self-Sufficiency Collaboratives (ASSCs) located in five core areas of the state where adolescents are most at risk for early pregnancy, exposure to substance use and abuse, and involvement in violence in home, school and/or the community. The ASSCs’ primary goal is to assist teens to achieve long-term economic independence and the well being of the teen parents and their children. The ASSCs promote postponement of initial pregnancy through the Youth Responsibility Project. This project, a component of the ASSC program, presents life management and asset development curriculums to program participants. Postponement and reduction of repeat pregnancies is also a major program goal, achieved through intense case management of participating pregnant and parenting teens.

The R. I. General Assembly passed the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Partnership Act in January 1997. The purpose of the Act was to develop a comprehensive statewide plan to prevent and reduce the incidence of unintended pregnancies among adolescents and to structure and coordinate primary pregnancy prevention health care services and educational programs for at risk adolescents. The Teen Pregnancy Prevention Partnership consists of representatives from the Departments of Human Services, Health, Education and Children, Youth and Families. The plan resulting from this legislation was completed and presented to the General Assembly in June 1999. In FFY 2005, this Teen Pregnancy Prevention Plan was updated to reflect both accomplishments as well as future activities focusing on reducing out of wedlock births to teens.

NUMERIC GOALS:

i. Numeric goals for reduction of teen pregnancy per 1000 teen births,
1998 through 2005.

*NOTE: Data for 2005 not yet compiled. 30.4 represents current projection.

A DHS evaluation of girls participating in the ASSC programs demonstrates that girls who participate long term are less likely to have repeat pregnancies than the girls who participate for only a short period of time.

ii. Numeric goals that designate youth (both male and female) involvement in pregnancy prevention and sexual responsibility education programs reflect that:

• In FFY 2005, 285 boys and girls, 12 to 19 years of age, participated in the Youth Responsibility Project.

• Additionally, the Department has collaborated with the R. I. Department of Health in the “Men-2-B” program which is offered for adolescent boys and prepares and trains men to work with teens to support adolescent development, make positive choices, communicate well, understand reproductive health, make positive health choices and reduce mixed messages about sex, drugs, and violence.

iii. Community and local involvement in the statewide planning effort and development of primary prevention services and educational programs for adolescents, especially in areas of the state with high rates of teen pregnancy.

• State Departments defined in the Pregnancy Prevention Plan have been advisory to the R. I. Children’s Cabinet for the purpose of developing a comprehensive “Youth Success Cluster (YSC).” The YSC developed Comprehensive Strategy Teams in five core cities with the highest number of children at risk. Each team has a strategic plan to reduce teen pregnancy. All federal/state-funded programs affecting youth success are presented to and coordinated through the YSC before presentation to Rhode Island communities.

• Since 2001 the State has received Federal Funds to provide substance abuse (SA) prevention services to youths . While SA prevention is the primary goal in awarding of this grant to the State, a major concurrent benefit is gained within the same statewide network that is devoted to Pregnancy Prevention; this provides all human service departments greater resources to work for successful outcomes in all areas of prevention. As part of statewide coordination, DHS FIP/TANF administration actively participates in policy and planning for this special project.

2. Encouraging the Formation and Maintenance of Two-Parent Families

The Family Independence Act encourages two-parent families to stay together by allowing them to receive cash assistance as long as the household’s income qualifies the family for cash assistance.

FIA adopted strong family strength and unity provisions. As a result, two (2) parent families receiving FIP cash assistance increased substantially from 492 families on cash assistance in April, 1997, to 1,233 households in December, 1998, 1019 in October 2000, 975 in August 2002 and 1009 in September, 2003, and in September, 2004 there were 949 FIP two parent family cases. As of September, 2005 there were 845 two-parent family cases. Two (2) parent families currently represent 6.9% of the total FIP cash assistance caseload.

In order to provide these parents with appropriate services, DHS has a cooperative agreement with the Department of Labor and Training to offer rapid job placement services for two (2) parent families. Additionally, special employment assistance services for non-custodial parents are offered which is intended to assist and reinforce potential support for low-income children from both custodial and non-custodial parents.

The Department works closely with Child Support Program and as of July 1, 2005 the administration of Child Support Program was moved back into DHS in order to more effectively integrate child support activities with FIP eligibility and cash assistance program services. A Fatherhood Coalition has become more formal and active in the state under the leadership of the Director of DHS’s Child Support Program and this effort is focused on helping families re-unite or if more appropriate, to come together in behalf of the emotional and economic well being of their children in common. Significant community education and outreach activities have occurred, with joint training being developed for community based organizations as well as in-service training for staff of the Department of Children, Youth and Families. DHS FIP/TANF Policy and Program administration and the DHS Head Start Collaboration Grant Manager are active members of the steering committee of the Coalition. In coordinating efforts of the Fatherhood Coalition, the State and the Department continues to work on developing specific programs to help fathers, particularly non-custodial fathers, acquire job skills and employment opportunities while at the same time learning of the range of supports available to help build positive involvement in the lives of their children.

IX An estimate of the total number of individuals who have participated in subsidized employment under 261.30(b) or (c) of this chapter.

Employer subsidies are provided to employers who agree to hire a FIP parent who may have less than the required work experience or educational level requested for the position, who may have limited work readiness skills, or who may need special accommodations in work hours because of the transportation and/or child care issues. Employers expect that the individual will be able to perform the duties of the job within a period of six (6) to nine (9) months. All or part of the individual’s FIP grant is diverted to a wage pool to reimburse the employers for part of the cost of the wages that are paid to the new employee. Employers and the new employee receive job retention/job advancement services through the RIte Works Employment and Retention Service Unit during the transition from cash assistance to employment, and for one year after the transition from subsidized to unsubsidized employment. Upon completion of the subsidized employment, it is expected that the individual will be retained in unsubsidized employment with the same employer. Seven (7) FIP parents participated in subsidized employment using Work Supplementation during FFY 2005.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: Rhode Island      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Program Administration

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Relates to overall administrative costs for FIP/TANF program operations, management, direct service and case management staff as well as systems and financial management.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of program administration and systems is to assure a high quality of service delivery; to determine and issue accurate payments; to monitor and track participant activities, and maintain a process of accountability in accord with both FIP and TANF requirements. Additionally, through program administration and systems, Rhode Island is able to operate a comprehensive program in accord with statutory goals of TANF:

a) To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
b) Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash assistance;
c) Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families; and
d) Prevent and reduce the incidence of out of wedlock pregnancies.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

____ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $5,239,949

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $5,239,949

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 13,844

This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

___ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Not Applicable

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
(NOTE: provide only if the response on question 10 is No)

This certifies that all families for which the State claims MOE expenditures for the fiscal year meet the State’s criteria for “eligible families.”

NOTE: This signature serves as certification for all ACF204 Forms contained in this document.

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for EACH PROGRAM for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:

Cash Assistance for FIP two-parent families not fully meeting work requirements, non-parent caretaker relatives, minor teen parents, legal non-citizens, and, and child-only cases resulting from the head of household having received 60 months of FIP cash assistance.

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Cash Assistance benefits are provided under FIP to families and children who meet FIP income and resource eligibility criteria to help them meet their basic needs. This Separate State Program is provided to assist:

• Two-Parent families who have developed an Employment Plan but who need services and assistance to help them until they are able to reach 35 hour work activity requirements under TANF;

• Non-custodial Caretaker Relatives and Minor Teen Parents who are not subject to time limits under this Separate State Program

• Child-only cases who are maintained on cash assistance without regard to time limits

• Fugitives and fleeing felons

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to provide cash assistance to help families meet their basic needs and is consistent with TANF 260.20(a),(b),(d)

a) Provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
b) End dependence on cash assistance by promoting job preparation, employment and family formation;
c) Prevent and reduce the incidence of out of wedlock pregnancies and establish annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of pregnancy; and
d) Encourage and support formation and maintenance of two-parent families.

4. Program Type. (Check one)
___ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

_X_ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a separate State program):

A. Work requirements for FIP parents served under this separate state program are the same as those covered by the program operated under FIP/TANF.

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $13,970,562

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under the Program for the Fiscal Year: $13,970,562

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 2553
This last figure represents (check one):

__X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

____ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Eligibility for FIP program cash assistance is based on financial need (income/resources) and having children in care. Child-only cases may also qualify based on need.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
(provide only if response on question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Cash Assistance for Families Working thirty (30) or more hours per week.

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Provides cash assistance payments and services to FIP working families.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to offer an economic incentive to strongly encourage parents to work no less than thirty (30) hours per week and as long as they work a minimum of thirty (30) hours per week thus halt the counting of months toward their 60 month time limit. The state of Rhode Island adopted this policy in order to reinforce the benefits of work. This is a support for those not able to initially or in some cases ever obtain or qualify for well paying jobs, but for whom employment plus supplemental cash assistance renders their families better off working than not working. This benefit is consistent with TANF purposes as stated in 260.20 (a), (b) and (d):

(a) To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;
(b) Promote and support gainful employment and end or reduce dependence on cash assistance;
(c) Encourage family formation through services to two (2) parent families.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

FIP parents must have signed a FIP Employment Plan which reflects paid employment at thirty (30) or more hours per week if they are a one parent family and 35 or more hours per week if they are in a two parent family.

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $2,074,927

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $2,074,927

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 690

This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

___ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Must be in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have verified paid employment which meets minimum requirement of thirty (30) or more hours per week (35 in 2-parent families).

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes ____ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

(NOTE: provide only if the response on question 10 is No.)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Care Assistance Program

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Child Care services are provided to all FIP Parents who have approved education, vocational training and/or work activity plan and need child care in order to carry out their Plan. Additionally, income eligible working families as well as teen parents actively involved in the Adolescent Self Sufficiency Collaborative are also provided with necessary child care assistance and services in order to maintain employment or in the case of teen parents, pursue a high school diploma. Eligibility criteria for these populations are defined within the Child Care Development Fund CCDF) State Plan and is referenced within the R. I. TANF State Plan.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of the Child Care Assistance Program is to provide access, affordability and quality child care for those families employed or preparing to become employed. This benefit is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a), (b).

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $ 52,793,766

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $51,342,295

(Funds used to meet CCDF matching Fund Requirements) -0-

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 8,657

This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

___ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan and those families who meet Child Care income eligibility standards as reflected in the CCDF State Plan and approved in the TANF State Plan are eligible to participate in MOE-funded Child Care Assistance.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

_________________________
(NOTE: provide only if the response on question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program DCYF Childcare Services

2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

The Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF) Child Care Services helps families in cases where children are in the care and custody of DCYF. Expenditures primarily relate to circumstances where the relative caregiver/parent requires such
support services in order to work or address other care needs of children and families.
This program is operated through the Department of Children Youth and Families.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to provide access to eligible families who may need childcare services and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a)

To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

___ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

_X_ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $ 2,291,308

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $ 2,291,308

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 802

This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

___ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

This benefit is available for FIP children and families already in receipt FIP cash assistance and for other low income children and families who meet standards of eligibility defined in the Child Care and Development Fund State Plan and approved in the TANF State Plan are supported through this program.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.
(NOTE: provide only if the response on question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program

New Opportunity Homes (NOH) for Minor Teen Parents

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

NOH’s provide temporary adult supervised housing as well as intensive case management services for pregnant and/or parenting teens under age 18, and their babies. These homes have been developed to meet the broad range critical needs of FIP minor teens and/or non-FIP minor teens who cannot live at home with their families due to inadequate housing, or risk of child abuse and/or neglect.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

These transitional homes are in accord with TANF/FIP requirements related to pregnant and/or parenting minors who cannot live at home with their families must have an alternate adult supervised living arrangement until they reach the age of majority which in R. I. is age 18. This meets TANF purposes under 260.20 (a)

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

____ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $597,951

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $597,951

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds _27_____

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP eligible minors who are low income pregnant or parenting, some of whom are in their first or second trimester of pregnancy and not yet in receipt of FIP cash assistance but who become recipients in their last trimester of pregnancy or who have already given birth to a baby(ies) and are supported through the FIP cash assistance program.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes ___ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______
(NOTE: provide only if the response on question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:

R. I. Department of Labor and Training
Rapid Job Entry Program

2 Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

This service is provided to FIP Parents who have a signed FIP Employment Plan and whose required activities are intended to focus on developing skills necessary for finding and keeping a job. Both one-parent and two-parent FIP recipients are referred to the Rapid Job Entry Program services which are delivered out of the netWORKri One Stop Career Centers. Access to state-of-the-art technology in job seeking skills and resources are provided to these parents as well as updated information on employers who are recruiting new employees throughout the state of Rhode Island. Services are typically offered through a job search groups and are 30 hours per week.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

Services through RJEP are consistent with TANF goals under 260.20 (a) and (b).

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

____ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year _$885,975

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $885,975

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds __224_

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP eligible.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11.Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: R. I. Department of Education
Project Opportunity Program

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

This service is provided to FIP parents who have a signed FIP Employment Plan and whose required activities are to participate in basic adult education programs in order to become employable. Project Opportunity is a joint project of RI Department of Human Services (DHS) and the RI Department of Education (RIDE) and delivers work readiness within the context of adult education. The goal of Project Opportunity programs is to serve FIP parents through the integration of adult education embedded in the context of work, specific job training, and work experience.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

Services through Project Opportunity are consistent with TANF goals under 260.20 (a) and (b).

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $179,566

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $179,566

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 441

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP recipients.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:

Dorcas Place Adult and Family Learning Center Program

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Rhode Island’s Department of Human Services (DHS) has contracted with Dorcas Place Adult and Family Learning Center Inc. to provide basic literacy, numeracy, language, computer skill instruction, as well as workplace literacy, and support services for adults per year who are Family Independence Program (FIP) TANF recipients.
Program components include assessment and orientation, adult basic literacy instruction (5 levels) (ABE and ESOL), workforce development and training services as well as family literacy services. Programs are for 30 hours, 20 hours or 10 hours.
Dorcas also serves low literacy adults through the Scottish Rite Curriculum designed to serve every literacy level including the learning disabled to assist adults build a foundation of basic literacy.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

This service is consistent with TANF goals under 260.20 (b)

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

This program provides essential services as defined and approved within
The FIP Employment Plan. All FIP parents enrolled in the Dorcas Place
Programs have activities which are designed to facilitate learning within the
Context of a work-based competency curriculum.

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $203,671

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $203,671

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 118

This last figure represents (check one):

____ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

__X__ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP parents .

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Other Supportive Services (Transportation)

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Transportation assistance is provided only to FIP parents who have an approved and signed FIP Employment Plan and who are attending programs and services geared to provide them with the basic education, job readiness, vocational education and work-based competency skills needed acquire and maintain employment .

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of the Transportation benefit is to assure that FIP families do not experience unnecessary barriers to employment due to a lack of reliable automobiles or other forms of transportation. obtaining gainful employment by eligible clients 260.20 (b).

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $ 97,919

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $ 97,919

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 347
This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

____ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Only parents who are in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have a signed FIP Employment Plan are eligible to participate in this Supportive Service Program.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $ ___________

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program: Child Support Pass Through

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

When a non-custodial parent receives a court order to pay child support in behalf of any child(ren) receiving FIP cash assistance, the Department of Human Services is designated to administer child support collections and payments. When the state collects current child support from the absent parent, an administrative mechanism is in place to pass along to the FIP/TANF the family first $50.00 of the monthly amount collected. DHS currently serves as both the administrative entity for child Support as well as the pass-through agency for FIP families.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to encourage support of children by both custodial and non-custodial parents and to provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the home of a relative. This benefit is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a) and (b),

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $1,318,040

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $1,318,040

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 4,627
This last figure represents (check one):

____ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

__X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

In order to receive a $50.00 Child Support Pass-through payment, families must be in receipt of FIP cash assistance and have their current child support collected from the non-custodial parent for the assistance unit through DHS.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at §260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Clothing Allowance for FIP Children

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

This benefit provides an annual clothing allowance for school-age children between the ages of four (4) and eighteen (18) years of age and whose family is in receipt of FIP cash assistance

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to assist needy families and children and is consistent with TANF goal 260.20 (a) to provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives;

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (i.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $218,745

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $218,745

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 10,347

This last figure represents (check one):

____ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X__ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Children must be school age (between 4 and 18 years of age) and be on FIP cash assistance.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program

Domestic Violence Assessment Project

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:
This Special Project was established to assist the Department with assessing possible domestic violence situations and as appropriate, to identify appropriate circumstances where the FIP program workers may determine that DV waivers are needed in three possible circumstances: 1) waiver from child support requirements; and/or 2) waiver from work requirements; and/or 3) waiver from time limits.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

Consistent with provisions in TANF, a state may opt to waive requirements when the health and well-being of the custodial parent and/or the children is at risk due to conditions of domestic violence. This service meets TANF goals under 260.20 (a)

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $121,300

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $121,300

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 338

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

__X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP recipients.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes ___ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:

Sstarbirth Residential Services for FIP Parents and their child(ren)

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

The goal of SSTARBIRTH is to help FIP/TANF woman recipients with histories of substance abuse and parenting issues develop life skills that will allow them to live and work while maintaining sobriety and custody of their children. SSTARBIRTH is a temporary residential program that uses group sessions, individual sessions, and psycho-educational groups to assist FIP/TANF parents.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

This service meets TANF goals under 260.20 (a), (b), and (d)

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $116,668

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $116,668

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 18

This last figure represents (check one):

____ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X__ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped are low income FIP recipients and those families who meet FIP income and resource eligibility standards.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes ___ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Emergency Expenses/Catastrophic Assistance

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Emergency expenses may be provided in the event of a documented catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families with replacement and/or repair of essential household belongings and furnishings and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a)

To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $16,930

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $16,930

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 24

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families. Payment of catastrophic assistance is authorized by the FIP eligibility technician.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

Not Applicable

(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Emergency Moving Assistance

2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Emergency moving expenses may be provided in the event a family is forced to move from their home or residence. Based upon a pre-approval, families may be reimbursement for moving expenses which is limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200.00) only once within a twelve month period of time.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families who may need to move as a result of a threat to the family’s health and well being, and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a)

To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $12,985

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $12,985

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 163

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families. Payment of emergency moving expenses is authorized by the appropriate FIP Housing Services Unit.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

Not Applicable
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Emergency Housing Assistance

2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Emergency Housing Assistance may be provided in the event a low-income family is experiencing a temporary housing crisis, which either threatens or actually results in a loss of housing. Short-term emergency housing assistance payments may be made directly to landlords or lending institutions in the form a check made payable to both the landlord/lending institution and the low income parent in need, where co-signatures are required) in order to address the short-term housing crisis. Because this is not an entitlement program, the Department contracts with CAP agencies throughout the state to operate this service and to handle eligibility and payments.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to assist either FIP cash assistance families and/or low income families who otherwise meet eligibility criteria of the FIP program with temporary Emergency Housing Assistance. This benefit is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a):

To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

___ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

_X_ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year $206,546

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year $206,546

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds 299

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

This benefit is available for FIP cash assistance families as well as low income needy families throughout the state who otherwise meet FIP income eligibility standards.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

Not Applicable
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program Emergency Assistance-EA

2. Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

Emergency Assistance (EA) helps children and families in cases of emergency situations such as deprivation of food, housing and parental support. Expenditures relate to circumstances of temporary absence of the child from the FIP/TANF home and family. This program is operated through the Department of Children, Youth and Families.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

The purpose of this benefit is to assist FIP families who may need crisis intervention and services and is consistent with TANF 260.20 (a):

To provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

Not Applicable

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $8,455,813

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $8,455,813

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 726

This last figure represents (check one):

_X_ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

___ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

This benefit is available for FIP children and families who meet the income eligibility for FIP cash assistance and/or are already in receipt FIP cash assistance.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes _X_ No ____

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995.

Not Applicable
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE:__________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

Attachment B

Annual Report on State Maintenance-of-Effort Programs: ACF-204

State: RHODE ISLAND      Fiscal Year: 2005

Date Submitted: December 17, 2005

Provide the following information for each program for which the State claims MOE expenditures.

1. Name of Benefit or Service Program:

Pro-CAP Displaced Homemaker Program and Community and Family Development Program

2. Description of the Major Program Benefits, Services, and Activities:

The services and activities offered through this contract provided special assessment and counseling to FIP parents in order to assist them with career direction and job readiness.

NOTE: This contract was terminated effective October 31, 2004.

3. Purpose(s) of Benefit or Service Program:

This service met TANF goals under 260.20 (a) and (b).

4. Program Type. (Check one)

_X_ This Program is operated under the TANF program.

___ This Program is a Separate State program.

5. Description of Work Activities in the SSP-MOE program (I.e., Complete only if this program is a Separate State program):

6. Total State Expenditures for the Program for the Fiscal Year: $73,770

7. Total State Expenditures Claimed as MOE under Program for Fiscal Year: $73,770

8. Total Number of Families Served under the Program with MOE Funds: 45

This last figure represents (check one):

___ The average monthly total for the fiscal year.

_X_ The total served over the fiscal year.

9. Eligibility Criteria for Receiving MOE-funded Benefits or Services under the Program:

Families helped by this service were FIP recipients.

10. Prior Program Authorization: Was this program authorized and allowable under prior law (i.e., as defined at 260.30)? (check one)

Yes ___ No ___

11. Total Program Expenditures in FY 1995. $______
(NOTE: provide only if the response on to question 10 is No)

SIGNATURE: __________________________________
NAME: Ronald A. Lebel
Title: Acting Director

Approved OMB No. 0970-0199 Form ACF 204, expires 6/30/2002.

ADDENDUM 1

Family Independence Program Work Requirements

Parents whose youngest child is under six years of age, must participate in approvable activities for a minimum of twenty (20) hours per week; and parents whose youngest child is six (6) years of age and older, must participate in work activity requirements at a minimum of thirty (30) or more hours per week. The description below defines how the state applies these requirements for both one parent and two-parent families.

One Parent Families:
During the first twenty-four (24) months of the Employment Plan, , the parent may participate in a education/training activity, as appropriate, to help the parent obtain stable full-time paid employment.

For parents whose youngest child is under age 6 twenty (20) hours per week of or for parents whose youngest child is over age six, thirty (30) hours per week of the following work activities are permissible:

• paid employment
• on-the-job training;
• community work experience program (CWEP);
• job readiness program during the first six (6) months of eligibility, or for a longer period if the Department determines it necessary to prepare the parent to obtain stable full-time employment;
• rapid job placement program during the first three (3) months of eligibility, or for a longer period if the department determines it necessary to prepare the parent to obtain stable full-time employment;
• supervised individual job search which meets FIP work requirements;

Parents under age of twenty (20) without a high school diploma or the equivalent must successfully participate on a full-time basis in a program to secure such diploma or the equivalent. Parents age twenty (20) or older, without basic literacy or English literacy skills, must successfully participate on a full time basis in a program to secure such skills. Parents age twenty (20) or older (and a parent under age twenty (20) who has a high school degree or the equivalent, or a parent under age (20) for whom attendance at a high school is determined to be inappropriate) may successfully participate in a vocational education, skills or job training program, including without limitation, a program of postsecondary education, which the Department determines is likely to result in regular full-time employment at wages sufficient to eliminate eligibility for cash assistance under the Family Independence Program.

The following parents in one-parent families can be deferred from work participation requirements, which begin in the twenty-fifth (25th) month:

• A parent under the age of twenty (20) without a high school diploma or the equivalent who is successfully participating, on a full-time basis, in a program to secure such diploma or the equivalent;
• A single parent age twenty (20) or older, without basic literacy or English language skills, who a) is participating in a full-time program but is unable to complete a literacy or language skills program during the first twenty-four (24) months of his or her Employment Plan, or b) whom the department has determined is unable to secure paid employment without additional language or literacy skills, and who is successfully participating in a program to secure such skills.
• A parent age twenty (20) or older, who is successfully participating in a vocational education, skills or job training program, including without limitation, a vocational program of postsecondary education, which the Department determines is likely to result in regular full-time employment at wages sufficient to eliminate eligibility for cash assistance under the act; provided, however, that the parent began the program prior to the twenty-fifth (25th) month of his or her Employment Plan; provided, further, that participation shall not be deemed a work activity after the thirty-sixth (36th) month of the Employment Plan.

Upon completion of any activity in the three (3) categories above prior to the thirty-sixth (36th) month of the individual’s Employment Plan, the formerly deferred parent shall be subject to the work activity requirements for parents whose Plans are more than twenty-four (24) months as outlined below.

Beginning with month twenty-five (25) of the Employment Plan, the parent in a one-parent family participates in one or more of the following work activities for at least twenty (20) hours per week if their youngest child is under age 6 or thirty (30) hours per week if their youngest child is six (6) years of age or older:

• paid employment (including on-the-job training);
• community work experience program (CWEP)
• job training program approved by the Department and conducted at a job site if the program involves supervised participation in work at the site.

Two-Parent Families:

In the case of a two (2) parent family, beginning seven (7) days following completion of a family financial plan if requested, and the individual Employment Plan (s), or as soon as practicable thereafter, one (1) parent shall be engaged in countable work activities for thirty-five (35) hours per week, at least thirty (30) of which are attributable to one (1) or more of the following activities:

• unsubsidized employment;
• subsidized private sector employment;
• subsidized public sector employment
• work Experience, if private sector employment is not available;
• on-the-job training;
• job search and job readiness;
• community service program;
• vocational education training (not to exceed 12 months) for any individual; or the provision of childcare services for an individual who is participating in a community service program.

In the case of a two (2) parent family in which one (1) parent is engaged for at least thirty-five (35) hours per week in the work activities specified above, the other (second) parent must also participate in and complete the FIP assessment. Additionally, the second parent may elect to have an Employment Plan completed. If the second parent elects to complete an Employment Plan, s/he must participate in work activities during the month for at least twenty (20) hours per week in one (1) or more of the following activities:

• unsubsidized employment
• subsidized private sector employment
• subsidized public sector employment;
• work experience if sufficient private sector employment is not available;
• on-the-job training;
• community service program.

If the two (2) parent family requests child care assistance one parent must be participating in 35 hours per week of work or be disabled or the second parent must be caring for a severely disabled child or participating in twenty (20) hours of one of the above activities.
• training program approved by the Department, which may include supervised work experience conducted at a job site;

Two-parent Families Deemed One-Parent Families:

In the event a parent in a two-parent family fails, without good cause, to meet her/his work requirements, that parent shall be removed from the payment and the family shall be deemed for all purposes under this act to include one parent. The parent included in the family shall be the parent, which the department determines has accepted primary responsibility for the care of the child (ren). This parent, unless exempt, shall be required to comply with work requirements for a parent in a one-parent family and shall be subject to the applicable work penalties if the parent fails to do so.

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Administration for Children and Families • 370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W. • Washington, D.C. 20447

This is a Historical Document.