Work First Family Assistance (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) is a cash assistance program. This is based on income and reserve. All recipients of Work First are required to comply with Child Support Enforcement, register for work at the Division of Workforce Solutions (formerly Employment Security Commission), and actively participate in activities that will lead to self-sufficiency. Recipients are required to sign a Mutual Responsibility Contract that they will:
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Get their children immunized
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Ensure that their children receive regular medical check-ups
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School aged children attend school regularly
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Teen parents must live at home and stay in school
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Seek employment, unless exempt
Work First Employment Services
When the parent is included in the Work First Benefits, employment services are provided. The goal is to move active participants to self-sufficiency as quickly as possible. Services offered include education and vocational training, assistance with Job Search and job retention, and any other areas that may be barriers to work. Referrals are also provided to local agencies for supportive services. Work First Benefits is time limited to 24 months of assistance for a participant actively participating in the Work First Employment Program.
Broad River Grandparents Raising Grandchildren & Kinship Care Support Group (GRG)
The Broad River Grandparents Raising Grandchildren & Kinship Care Support Group provides education and support to grandparents and relative caregivers that are receiving work first by helping families access necessary services, expand support systems, and promote family stability. The support group meets monthly (with the exception of July). Speakers are invited to come in and speak on issues that these families may be facing. Learning activities are provided for children during the support group for members.
To inquire about Work First services, please call (704) 487-0661 and ask to speak with a Work First social worker. For further policy information, please visit: North Carolina's Work First Policy Manual