- TANF funds can be used for a variety of initiatives and supportive
services, such as childcare, education, training, counseling, mentoring,
transportation assistance, and work expense allowances among others.
States can also tailor services to better address the needs of individuals.
- Many states have large TANF surpluses. As state governments move to
spend these surplus funds, especially in response to the post-9/11 economic
changes, it may be an opportune time to step in and help design human
services programs. Spending deadlines, the obligations to maintain state
expenditure levels, and the upcoming reauthorization debate put pressure
on the states to use TANF program funds. With labor’s help, the
Workforce Investment Act (WIA) system can help connect TANF recipients
to good jobs and training.
-
Look
for Opportunities
Programs
should keep a close watch on availability of funds. New systems
for applications are developing under the Workforce Investment
Act system. A California example: California has a new application
process. The California Department of Education (CDE) and
the Outreach and Technical Assistance Network (OTAN) have
teamed up to launch a virtual application process for federal
adult education funds. The OTAN Website is: http://www.otan.dni.us
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State governors, legislators,
and human services administrators will generally set the agenda for
the state’s TANF program. Local governments and county welfare
agencies may also have a role in program design and implementation in
some states. Decision-making at these levels may provide openings for
collaboration and opportunities to access customized services.
- Federal TANF funding is much higher than for many other federal human
services or workforce development programs. Federal TANF funding is
$16.8 billion each year through FY2002.
What
are the purposes of TANF?
The federal statute sets out the following four purposes:
- To provide assistance to needy families;
- To end dependence of needy parents by promoting job preparation, work
and marriage;
- To prevent and reduce out-of-wedlock pregnancies; and
- To encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
Under these general purposes, a wide variety of programs and services
can be established to serve needy families with (or expecting) children.
Who
can be served under TANF
Under its first two purposes, TANF serves “needy” families,
including single-parent and two-parent families. The family must include
a minor child or pregnant woman. States may also choose to provide assistance
or services to noncustodial parents when they are members of a TANF-eligible
family.
TANF funds may also be used to advance the out-of-wedlock pregnancy
prevention and family formation purposes, the third and fourth purposes
under the federal TANF statute.
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