AG 2003 04 21 - Laserfiche WebLink

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sufficiency. The ~ew Focus, had as its primary objective, a family assessment prior to any application for assistance at DSS. Through this assessment, many needs were identified, and addressed. In 75% of the cases, an application for Work First was m}t needed. Due to increasing::.numbers applying for Work First, due to the economy, the limited employm __e~rtt staff has begun to encounter a backlog of cases that require attention with employment services to help them secure a job, and be free of public assistance 1}efore their time-clock runs out. ; After discussions .ivith several counties, who have taken the New Focus and modified it for their needs, Cabarrus DSS has once again modified their plans to meet its needs. Tliis is done so that applicants can get a clear picture off 1) what the expectations a~e of someone applying for Work First, and 2) existing Work First families can [~e serviced with employment services. Cabarms County Ii)SS is presently planning on testing a project to accomplish both objectives. Tlte system that is being tested operates as follows; · When a potent!al applicant comes to the department and requests Work First on the agency [act sheet, they see eligibility Intake. If it is an adult case, the applicant is intbrmed that they must do the following: 1. Attend an Orientation session prior to applying for WFFA. They are given a flier whicla informs them of the schedule for Orientation, which is the first step ir!_the Work First application process. 2. Encourage4 to see an ESC Employment Consultant to complete a 1st Stop registratio~before they attend Orientation. If a client is an applicant for WFFA, theF must complete a 1st Stop registration in order to apply for WFFA cas~ benefits. 3. Have the o~portunity to apply for Medicaid and/or Food Stamps on the day they fi~t come to the office and see a Crisis worker about any program in ~that area. · At Orientationi the applicant sees the Work First Employment social workers in a group settilig, and is informed about the following: 1. A description of the WFFA application process 2. A detailed description of employment services requirements, including work requirements, time limits, sanctions, supportive services, terminations, etc. 3. The benefiti of becoming self-sufficient and self-supporting, discouraging dependenc~ on welfare, and emphasizing work and responsibility. · As a result ofl~rientation, the applicant has a clear picture of the Work First program at DS~, and can decide on one of two options: 1. Apply for '~FFA and comply with employment services requirements 2. Not apply f~r WFFA and either leave or apply for any other assistance they so choose.