Department of Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller outlined recent changes to the Employment, Advancement and Retention Network (EARN) and Work Ready programs – two employment and training programs that provide support to people who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to obtain employment skills, prepare for work and sustain good jobs.
The previous iteration prioritized a work-first job placement in any job, regardless of job quality and participant readiness. An analysis of these programs found that for people who left TANF for employment, about 50 percent returned to TANF within a year. The redesign includes a more thorough assessment that addresses clients holistically to support financial independence. DHS worked with all 22 local workforce development boards and multiple community action agencies, and used direct feedback from participants, caseworkers and providers to shape the new design.
“Our goal at DHS is to help families reach long-term economic sustainability. We want to be advocates and partners for the people we serve and use TANF both to meet essential needs and empower people to take a step forward for themselves and their family. To accomplish this, we recognized that we need to shift how we serve this population. One immediate way to do so was in the way we operate our employment and training programs,” said Miller. “It is our hope that this redesign will put the people we serve on the path to economic stability and independence.”
Under the redesigned programs, each person will work with a caseworker to identify strengths and barriers in reaching career goals. They’ll receive support to meet those goals. The redesign introduces a focus on education and training activities that aim to help participants get the skills and certifications they need in the workforce, including GED diplomas or job credentials.
Participants will also have access to case managers, individualized coaching and mental health counseling services. These supports will be available for one year following sustainable employment, meaning participants will have continued support if issues arise within the first year of employment to help problem solve and establish stability and independence during this time.
Participants may be eligible for financial support for materials, supplies, child care, transportation costs and more in order to successfully participate in the program and eliminate barriers.
Current participation in the employment and training programs has been shifted to remote services due to COVID-19.
“We want to create programs that give people the space they need to envision a better future for themselves and their families and then provide them with the tools they need to actualize those dreams,” said Miller. “This is our opportunity to really try to help change circumstances for parents and families living in incredibly difficult circumstances. No one should have to go at this alone, and we must take a community-wide approach to help people know that they will be supported throughout their journey. We hope that this employment and training redesign will help our clients achieve just that.”
Only families with children are eligible for TANF. Job loss, domestic violence, child care availability and the need for education are some of the reasons someone may need the support of the program.
Applications for TANF can be submitted online at compass.state.pa.us. Paper applications can also be picked up at a local County Assistance Office or requested by phone at 1-800-692-7462.
Visit dhs.pa.gov for more information.
