DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES RESOURCE GUIDE To Enrich Lives Through Effective And Caring Service

Transcription

1 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES RESOURCE GUIDE 2013 To Enrich Lives Through Effective And Caring Service

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3 Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services Resource Guide 2013 Table of Contents Introduction Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services Programs and Services Overview Contact Information Sheet CalWORKs CalWORKs Fact Sheet Homeless Programs for Families Rights, Responsibilities and Other Important Information Sample Application for Cash Aid, CalFresh and Medi-Cal Statement of Fact for Cash Aid, CalFresh and Medi-Cal Welfare-to-Work (WtW) /Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) GAIN Fact Sheet Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) Fact Sheet Orientation/Job Club/Vocational Assessment (JCO) Fact Sheet Vocational Assessment Fact Sheet DPSS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Fact Sheet DPSS Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Fact Sheet DPSS Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Brochure Problems with Mental Health and Substance Abuse Brochure Specialized Supportive Services for Victims of Domestic Violence Brochure Confidential Domestic Violence (DV) Information WtW/GAIN Decision Chart Refugee Employment Program (REP) Fact Sheet General Relief General Relief Fact Sheet General Relief Opportunities For Work (GROW) Fact Sheet Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) Fact Sheet Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) Brochure CalFresh CalFresh Program Fact Sheet CalFresh Benefits Your Rights and Responsibilities Sample Application for CalFresh Benefits Medi-Cal Medi-Cal Program Quarterly Fact Sheet Sample Application for Medi-Cal In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Fact Sheet IHSS Application for Social Services SOC 295 General Information Health & Nutrition Mobile Office Fact Sheet Toy Loan Program Fact Sheet Toy Loan Program Frequently Asked Questions Volunteer Program Fact Sheet Volunteer Program Flyer Accessing Health and Human Services Programs

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5 Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services Programs and Services Overview The Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) serves a diverse community through a variety of federal, State, and County-funded programs designed to alleviate hardship and promote health, personal responsibility, and economic independence. DPSS administers the CalWORKs, CalFresh (Food Stamps), Medi-Cal, General Relief (GR), and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Programs, and the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) to low-income residents of Los Angeles County through dozens of DPSS Offices and other public and non-profit agencies located across the County. The following provides a description highlighting some integral components of these programs. CalWORKs: State and federally-funded temporary cash assistance for low-income families with children and any combination of the following, as necessary: Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) Program: CalWORKs applicants and participants are prepared to find and maintain employment. Eligible CalWORKs applicants are engaged during the first points of contact with DPSS, and once participating in GAIN, they are provided with case management, employment services and ongoing supportive services. In addition, participants receive assistance in resolving or clearing their Welfare-to-Work (WTW) non-compliance or pending sanction through the GAIN Sanction Home Visit Outreach Project, which employs intensive case management to identify services participants need to overcome employment barriers. CalWORKs Housing Program: Program provides a number of services and benefits designed to assist CalWORKs homeless families, or families at risk of homelessness, to prevent eviction or move out of their current situation and into affordable permanent housing. Benefits include temporary shelter, permanent housing, moving assistance, short-term rental subsidy, assistance to prevent eviction, relocation assistance, and case management services. CalWORKs Specialized Supportive Services: Mental health, domestic violence, and substance abuse services are provided to participants in need of services. Supplemental Security Income Assistance Program (SSIAP): SSIAP workers provide physically and mentally disabled CalWORKs participants with assistance and advocacy support throughout the SSI application process. The goal is to obtain an early SSI approval for participants who appear to meet federal SSI eligibility criteria. MEDI-CAL: State and federally-funded program which provides medical benefits to low-income families with children and elderly/disabled individuals who are unable to afford the cost of their medical care. CalFresh (FOOD STAMPS): Federal program with the purpose of promoting and safeguarding the health and well-being of low-income households by raising their levels of nutrition and increasing their food purchasing power. IHSS: State-mandated program that provides domestic services and personal care services to eligible aged, blind and disabled individuals to allow them to remain safely in their own homes. The intent of the program is to prevent costly institutional care, by providing basic in-home care services to consumers who cannot safely perform the services themselves. Services must be related to health or safety and cannot be authorized for comfort. GR: County-funded cash assistance for low-income individuals not eligible for State/federal assistance, plus the following services, as necessary: General Relief Opportunities for Work (GROW) Program: GROW transitions employable GR participants into the labor market. Participants are assisted with activities designed to prepare them for employment, including case management, employment services and supportive services. Supplemental Security Income Medical Advocacy Program (SSIMAP): SSIMAP workers provide physically and mentally disabled GR participants with assistance and advocacy support throughout the Social Security Income (SSI) application process. The goal is to obtain an early SSI approval for participants who appear to meet federal SSI eligibility criteria. 01/17/2013 Page 1 of 2

6 CAPI: State-funded cash assistance provided to aged, blind, and/or disabled legal non-citizens who are categorically ineligible to Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP) due to their immigration status. SSIAP: SSIAP workers provide physically and mentally disabled CAPI participants with assistance and advocacy support throughout the SSI application process. Many disabled CAPI participants may be eligible to federally-funded SSI based on their disability. REFUGEE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (REP): REP provides employment and training services, case management and placement services for refugees residing in the U.S. for five years or less and asylees residing in the U.S. for five years from the date they are granted asylum. Services are available to refugees aided through the CalWORKs, Refugee Cash Assistance, and GR Program, or refugees not aided through a public assistance program. EXPANDING ACCESS TO SERVICES Customer Service Center (CSC): The CSC provides participants with a single point of contact for ease in accessing their CalWORKs, CalFresh (Food Stamps), Medi-Cal or GR case information and reporting changes through the telephone. In addition, participants have access to general case information, emergency hotlines and program hotlines 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via a self-service menu. CalFresh (Food Stamp) and Medi-Cal Outreach: CalFresh (Food Stamp) and Medi-Cal Outreach staff is stationed at various non-traditional community sites (including health clinics, food pantries, farmer s markets, WIC sites, churches and schools) to accept and assist with CalFresh (Food Stamp) and/or Medi-Cal applications. Workers engage with the community, providing information and referrals to available resources and services. LINKAGES Project: A Los Angeles County interdepartmental partnership that promotes service coordination for families involved in the child welfare system (Department of Children and Family Services) who are also receiving services or benefits provided by DPSS. The goal is to increase child safety and family functioning and increase the number of positive child/family outcomes. YourBenefitsNow (YBN) Website: Los Angeles County residents can now apply on-line for CalWORKs, CalFresh (Food Stamps), or Medi-Cal Participants with an existing case can also view their benefit information through the YBN website. YBN provides 24/7 easy and convenient access for new and existing clients. FRAUD PREVENTION Income and Eligibility Verification System (IEVS): The coordinated data exchange system made available through IEVS allows workers to search and verify income and assets associated with specific identifying information for each household member, including name, social security number, and date of birth. IEVS is a valuable tool in identifying and detecting welfare fraud. Statewide Fingerprint Imaging System (SFIS): SFIS clerks capture fingerprints and photo images during the CalWORKs or GR application process. SFIS is a valuable tool for preventing duplicate aid fraud by matching applicant s fingerprints against those individuals known to the statewide system. Early Fraud Prevention and Intervention Activities: Welfare Fraud Investigators take referrals for early fraud detection from eligibility staff, the Central Fraud Reporting Line, WeTip, and computer matches from fingerprints, addresses, and wage and asset matches. CO-LOCATED AGENCIES OR COUNTY DEPARTMENTS Child Care Resources: Agencies identify appropriate child care for CalWORKs families and other families depending on family size and income. Agencies serve as a resource and referral to connect families to alternative community program services. Health Care Options: Applicants/participants receive assistance in choosing and enrolling in a health care plan. Department of Mental Health: Mental health services are provided to CalWORKs and GR participants. Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE): LACOE provides orientations for GROW participants. Military and Veteran s Affairs: Staff provides referrals and resource information. Los Angeles County, DPSS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. DPSS has a No Wrong Door Policy when serving the public, and participants will receive services in the office of their choice or accept a referral to another office. Page 2 of 2

7 Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services PROGRAMS: CALWORKS CalFresh MEDI-CAL GENERAL RELIEF REFUGEE SERVICES Contact Information Sheet IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES CASH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR IMMIGRANTS COMMUNITY SERVICES BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM TOY LOAN For general information on programs, services, and issues, constituents may contact: (626) Customer Service Toll Free Number (310) Centers 1 (866) (818) DPSS Central Help Line Toll Free Number 1(877) For legislative staff assisting constituents on unresolved issues, contact: Derrick Robinson, Director of Government Inquiry and Response Phone: (562) Fax: (562) derrickrobinson@dpss.lacounty.gov For all other questions, contact: Nestor Requeno, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Phone: (562) Fax: (562) nestorrequeno@dpss.lacounty.gov

8 CalWORKs The CalWORKs is a time-limited cash aid program for children and families designed to provide temporary assistance for basic needs (shelter, food and clothing). The program establishes work requirements and provides a broad spectrum of Welfare-to-Work (WtW) services that help remove barriers to employment and help families become economically self-sufficient. Contents CalWORKs Fact Sheet Homeless Programs for Families Rights, Responsibilities and Other Important Information Sample Application for Cash Aid, CalFresh and Medi-Cal Statement of Fact for Cash Aid, CalFresh and Medi-Cal Additional information may be accessed through the websites listed below: DPSS main website, listing all departmental information, including program-specific information, office locations and the community event s calendar. Informs citizens of Los Angeles County of state and federal benefits assistance. This website provides additional information about programs available after completing a short online survey. Provides information about human social services in the Los Angeles County.

9 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services Sheryl L. Spiller, Director CALIFORNIA WORK OPPORTUNITY AND RESPONSIBILITY TO KIDS (CalWORKs) PROGRAM Requirements Fact Sheet Deprivation must exist (unemployment; deceased, disabled or absent parent). At application, the principle wage earner must not be employed more than 100 hours a month. Once the case is approved, the principle wage earner may be employed over 100 hours per month as long as there is financial eligibility. Children must live with a parent or relative caretaker. Children must be under 18 years of age or 18 years of age enrolled as a full-time student in high school or a vocational/technical training program and: Expected to graduate/complete the training program before reaching age 19; or Not expected to graduate/complete the training before age 19 due to a disability. Intend to reside in California. Must be a U.S. Citizen, naturalized or lawful permanent immigrant. Provide a Social Security Number. Income Limits Gross income may include income from earnings, disability benefits, child/spousal support payments, veterans, etc. For Intake, the gross income (for earnings, deduct $90 from the gross income) must be under Minimum Basic Standard of Adequate Care (MBSAC) for the family. If income is below MBSAC, a second income test (Recipient Test) is applied: $112/50% disregards to income from earnings or $225 disregard for specific disability-based income. Apply a $225 disregard for specific disability-based income. If the Assistance Unit (AU) also has earned income, subtract the amount if the difference between the DBI and the $225, whichever is less and deducted 50% of the remainder. For earned income only, disregard $112 and deduct 50% of the balance from the income. The remainder must be under the Maximum Aid Payment (MAP) for the family. For approved cases, the gross income must be under MAP for the family after certain disregards are applied. (See above Recipient Test.) Property/Resource Limits $2,000 (cash on hand, savings, stocks, etc.). $3,000 if someone in the AU is 60 years or older. Exempt Property/Resources may include: The home the applicant/participant resides in. Personal/household items (furniture, appliances, etc.) Tools used for trade/profession. Participants may hold special restricted savings accounts to be used for education/training, business or to purchase a home. For the first car, deduct $4,650 from the Fair Market Value, the remainder is counted towards the property limit.

10 -2- Other Requirements Child Support cooperation. Immunizations for all children under the age of 6 who are not enrolled in school. Proof of regular school attendance for all school-age children. Work and training is required for most parents. Quarterly Eligibility/Status Reporting. Participants who self-identify as either a fleeing/drug felon are ineligible for CalWORKs. Maximum Family Grant (MFG) requires that cash benefits will not increase even if additional children are born. There are exceptions to this rule, but in general, the MFG rule is invoked when a child is born into an AU that has received CalWORKs for at least 10 months immediately prior to the child s birth. The MFG child is eligible to receive CalFresh and Medi-Cal benefits. Time Limits Most adults can only receive 48 months of cash aid. Exemptions may be applied to 20% of the CalWORKs population and to participants receiving domestic violence services. The months do not need to be consecutive. Months in which aid was received prior to January 1, 1998 are not counted. Includes months in which aid was received from other states (after 1/1/98). MAP Levels Exempt MAP (higher) is limited to families where each adult relative caretaker in the (AU) receives or meets one of the following conditions: SSI/SSP benefits; IHSS benefits; SDI, Temporary Workers Compensation, Temporary Disability benefits; or Is a non-needy, non-parent caretaker relative who is not included in the AU. Additional Benefits For Intake, a pregnant woman with no other children must be in her last trimester before she is eligible for assistance. An applicant with other eligible children may receive the pregnancy allowance from the date of application through the month of birth. For approved cases, a pregnant participant may receive the pregnancy allowance from the first of the month in which medical verification is received through the month of birth. The first $50 from a child support payment is disregarded. A special need allowance may be allowed for diets, transportation, etc. A special non-recurring allowance may be given to replace clothing and household equipment if the loss was due to a sudden and unusual circumstance (fire, flood, earthquake, etc.). There are a variety of homeless assistance programs available. A Diversion payment may be available for applicants who need help to meet a one-time-only expense that prevents current employment or who is likely to find employment in a short period of time. For detailed information, visit the DPSS website at CW Division Rev. 3/2012

11 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES HOMELESS PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES Temporary Homeless Assistance (HA) A homeless CalWORKs family can receive from $65 up to $125 per night (depending on the Assistance Unit s size) for temporary shelter in a hotel/motel or commercial establishment for up to 16 consecutive days (receipts are required to verify the hotel/motel expense). Payments are issued in increments of no more than seven days at a time. Permanent Homeless Assistance (HA) A homeless CalWORKs family can receive help with move-in costs, such as last month s rent, deposits, utility deposits, and cleaning fees, provided the family s rent costs do not exceed 80% of the total monthly household income. HA Permanent Arrearage Payment CalWORKs families who have received an eviction notice or notice to pay or quit due to non-payment of rent because of a financial hardship, not a lease/contract violation, may qualify to pay for up to two months in rent arrearages to prevent eviction. The family s monthly rent costs cannot exceed 80% of the total monthly household income. Proof of financial hardship is required. Moving Assistance (MA) for CalWORKs Families CalWORKs families who are experiencing a financial crisis, including homelessness or at-risk of homelessness (already received eviction notice or 3-day notice to pay or quit) may receive funds to secure permanent housing. If the family is homeless, they must have exhausted all other means of assistance including HA. If the family is not homeless, they must demonstrate that they are experiencing a financial hardship that could result in homelessness. Proof of financial hardship is required. MA provides funds for the last month s rent, security deposits, utility turn-on fees, and moving expenses (e.g., truck rental). The program also provides up to $405 for a stove and/or refrigerator. A family may receive up to $2,000 in MA and MA can be used in conjunction with permanent HA to purchase a stove/refrigerator or for truck rental only. NOTE: Effective October 1, 2010, this program is available only to families meeting their Welfareto-Work requirements (participating in the GAIN Program). Emergency Assistance to Prevent Eviction (EAPE) - Helps CalWORKs families who are at risk of losing their housing because of non-payment of rent due to a financial hardship (not for any other lease/contract violations) to prevent eviction and remain in permanent housing. EAPE provides up to $2,000 to help pay rent and/or utilities for up to two months in arrears to assist the family in maintaining permanent housing. This program can be used as needed until the $2,000 limit has been exhausted. NOTE: Effective October 1, 2010, this program is available only to families meeting their Welfareto-Work requirements (participating in the GAIN Program). Housing Relocation Program - Provides a one-time-only relocation subsidy of up to $1,500 to eligible CalWORKs participants working 20 hours or more per week or with a documented offer of employment for 20 hours or more per week. In addition, the family may receive up to $405 to purchase a stove/refrigerator if needed for the new place. 4-Month Rental Assistance (RA) Program for CalWORKs Families Assists homeless CalWORKs Welfareto-Work families to remain in non-subsidized permanent housing by providing a short-term rental subsidy. Families receiving HA Permanent Housing and/or MA may qualify for a rental subsidy of up to $300 per family (based on the family size) for up to four consecutive months. NOTE: All of the above homeless programs are once-in-a-lifetime. Some programs may be accessed again when certain exceptions are met (domestic violence, mental or physical illness, prior residence becoming uninhabitable, or natural disaster).

12 HOMELESS SERVICES FOR FAMILIES Homeless CalWORKs Families Project - This joint effort between DPSS, the Department of Mental Health (DMH), and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) connects homeless families in which a parent has mental health problems with public benefits, including employment/supportive services, and assists them in finding permanent housing. It also provides emergency housing vouchers, transportation, and crisis intervention. Emergency Shelter & Services DPSS contracts with LAHSA to provide emergency housing and shelter services for homeless CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work families. Eligible families may receive up to 120 days of emergency shelter. The program also includes limited case management, transportation, and assistance in finding permanent housing or moving the family into transitional housing. Homeless Case Management Homeless Case Managers (HCMs) work with CalWORKs homeless families to facilitate their access to services, initiate referrals, and move the family into permanent housing. The services include crisis intervention, short-term stabilization, needs assessment, employment services, advocacy, and an individualized housing plan. Skid Row Access Team (SRAT) A team comprised of staff from Departments of Public Social Services (DPSS), Mental Health (DMH), Public Health (DPH) and Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) identifies homeless families in the Skid Row area and connects them with available benefits and services. District Access Team CalWORKs district offices have designated Eligibility workers (EWs) from their Housing Resources Unit as part of their access teams to connect families with CalWORKs and eligible homeless programs and services. The EWs are placed on an on-call basis to accept potential applications from access centers and shelters. If the family cannot travel to the district office and the shelter/access center cannot provide transportation, the Access Team will travel to the shelter/access center to assist the family as needed. Homeless Programs & Services Fact Sheet doc

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41 Welfare-to-Work/Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) The Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) Program is Los Angeles County s highly successful California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) Welfare-to-Work program for families receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). Contents GAIN Fact Sheet Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) Fact Sheet Orientation/Job Club/Vocational Assessment (JCO) Fact Sheet Vocational Assessment Fact Sheet DPSS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Fact Sheet DPSS Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Fact Sheet DPSS Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Brochure Problems with Mental Health and Substance Abuse Brochure Specialized Supportive Services for Victims of Domestic Violence Brochure Confidential Domestic Violence (DV) Information WtW/GAIN Decision Chart Refugee Employment Program (REP) Fact Sheet Additional information may be accessed through the websites listed below: DPSS main website, listing all departmental information, including programspecific information, office locations and the community event s calendar. Informs citizens of Los Angeles County of state and federal benefits assistance. This website provides additional information about programs available after completing a short online survey. Provides information about human social services in the Los Angeles County.

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43 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services GREATER AVENUES FOR INDEPENDENCE (GAIN) FACT SHEET FEBRUARY 2013 PROGRAM OVERVIEW The Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) Program is Los Angeles County s highly successful California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) Welfare-to-Work program for families receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). PROGRAM DESIGN The GAIN Program is designed to help CalWORKs participants find employment which will ultimately lead to self-sufficiency. Services include: Appraisal, Orientation and Motivation; Job Search, Vocational Assessment, Education and Training; Work Experience, Subsidized Employment, Community Services; and Mental Health, Domestic violence and Substance Abuse recovery services as needed. The program pays for transportation, child care and work-related expenses to enable participants to attend assigned activities to facilitate positive outcomes. After participants find employment, Post-Employment Services are available to assist employed participants retain their jobs, and/or obtain higher paying jobs. Exempt participants may volunteer to participate in GAIN. Although not required, participation in GAIN is mandatory for all CalWORKs participants unless they are exempt. Exemptions required documentation, verification, and the approval of a GAIN Services Worker. However, once a participant volunteers to enter program, he/she must adhere to the same rules and regulations as mandatory participant do. Mandatory participants can utilize WtW Services for up to 48 months. The GAIN Program has embraced the philosophy, GAIN: The Bridge to Independence a practical and powerful message. Participants are shown how employment will greatly benefit their family, and prepare parents to secure self-sustaining jobs, which will eventually lead to long-term economic self-sufficiency. The GAIN Program is the largest Welfare-to-Work program in the nation and is focused on activities that rapidly move people into employment. Currently, we are serving 46,534 mandatory Welfare-to-Work Participants.

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45 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services CalWORKs TRANSITIONAL SUBSIDIZED EMPLOYMENT (TSE) (February 2012) BACKGROUND/PROGRAM DESIGN Los Angeles County Department of Social Services (LADPSS) Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) is a post-assessment activity for participants who remain unemployed. These services are arranged through a contract the Department has with the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB), who in turn sub-contracts with One-Stops/Work Source Centers located throughout the County. LADPSS operates two models: Paid Work Experience: Participants are placed in government or non-profit agencies; SBWIB is the employer-of-record; DPSS pays 100% of the costs; Participants are paid minimum wage ($8 an hour) Placements are 4 months in duration; On-the-Job Training Design (Employer Contribution) Participants are matched to the needs of the employer and are expected to be fully work ready; Participants are placed in private for-profit, or non-profit agencies; Participants may work up to six months, earning at least $8.00/hour or employerselected wage; First two months, DPSS pays 100% of the wages with SBWIB as the employer of record, including coverage of Workers Compensation; Next four months, agency pays the employee wages, Workers Compensation and FICA and will be reimbursed as follows: o For participants working 20 to 31 hours per week, the employer is reimbursed $350 per month, per employee ($350 = approximately 50% of minimum wage for 20 hours/week) o For participants working 32 or more hours per week, the employer is reimbursed $550 per month, per employee ($550 = 50% of minimum wage for 32 hours/week) PROJECT FUNDING: The funding source is CalWORKs Single Allocation and employer contributions for OJT, which allows participants to be placed in subsidized employment that will lead to selfsufficiency. The Department was also able to free up additional one-time only funding for FY which resulted in the Department being able to place over 1,700 individuals into the program.

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47 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services SHERYL L. SPILLER Director PROGRAM OVERVIEW ORIENTATION/JOB CLUB/VOCATIONAL ASSESSMENT (JCO) FACT SHEET The GAIN program provides a one-day GAIN Orientation and four-week Job Readiness & Career Planning Services Program known as Orientation/Job Club/Vocational Assessment (JCO) to assist participants with job preparation, job search and/or an educational/training plan with the ultimate goal of obtaining, securing and/or promoting to living wage employment. The Job Readiness & Career Planning Preparation program is for English, Spanish and Non-English-Spanish speaking participants. Job Club has been modified to meet the needs of participants who are unemployed with extensive work skills and or degrees, as well as those participants with no employment history. The changes include more use of technology in the classroom allowing participants to apply for jobs on-line. JCO provides a seamless transition between GAIN Orientation, Job Club and Vocational Assessment. The Orientation/Job Club/Vocational Training (JCO) program incorporates the following activities: Orientation Orientation is the first activity conducted on Monday of the first week of JCO. The one-day orientation and motivational activity is designed to motivate participants and assist them in recognizing strengths, skills and abilities that are transferable to the workplace. During Orientation the participants are given information on the program benefits as well as the participants rights and responsibilities. At the end or Orientation participants are divided in two groups, Track A, and Track B. Track A is for participants who are job ready, recently unemployed and for participants who have attended Job Club previously. Track B is for new participants who need more direction from the Job Club facilitator on how to search for employment and for participants who previously attended Job Club. Track A, Week 1 Track A services participants who are identified as Advanced Prep. Participants in the Advanced Prep begin supervised Job Search activities in the Workforce Center/Computer Lab. Advanced Prep requires participants to dress appropriately for job search, have a current professional resume, demonstrate an urgency to obtain employment, the ability to effectively communicate their skills and work experience, the ability to complete on-line applications and the ability to and upload resumes. Track A participant s primary focus is to create an individualized Job Search Plan and to focus on fine-tuning pre-employment skills. Track A, Week 2-4 Job Club for Advanced Prep participants consist of a group session followed by individualized job search activities in the classroom Workforce Development Center (WDC) focusing on identifying job leads, identifying potential employers, and preparing for job interviews. Participants participate in Hot Jobs job placement session(s) daily and one-on-one meetings with the facilitator for participants to receive individualized job search support and guidance. Sessions are conducted in the computer lab and job leads are projected via power point for participants to discuss. During week four, Advance Prep participants who have not obtained employment will complete Vocational Assessment.

48 Track B, Week 1 Track B participants are GAIN/REP participants who are participating in Job Club for the first time or returning participants who need additional job readiness assistance. This group of participants follows the regular job club flow which includes interviewing techniques, dress for success, goal-setting, practice online applications, complete resume, online data storage, money management skills and soft skills leading to job retention and promotion. Participants practice mock interviews, as well as work independently to practice and update computer skills. Participants have daily one-on-one meetings with the facilitators to identify and maximize job readiness and potential job leads. Job Search documentation are monitored and reviewed daily. This four-week component focuses on essential pre-employment skills, preparing participants to enter or re-enter the workforce with the flexibility to pursue various Workforce Development Center activities that are appropriate to each individual. Participants are required to treat JCO as if it were an actual job. They are expected to dress appropriately, report on time, and participate actively in the workshops. The curriculum presented in the first week of the Job Club is vital to the participant s success in obtaining employment. Track B, Weeks 2-4 During the second through fourth week of JCO, job search is focused on classroom activities combined with job search activities. The activities during these weeks are designed to teach GAIN/REP participants various job finding skills to enable them to find work through their own efforts and enhance their chances of finding employment. During JCO, participants secure job interviews by submitting on-line job applications to prospective employers using the computer labs that are available at the Job Services sites. The goal is to complete on-line applications and secure job interviews. Each participant maintains a job search progress report to guide and monitor their search, which is reviewed regularly by the Job Club instructor. Participants who have not found employment by the beginning of the fourth week proceed to Vocational Assessment at the end of the week to develop an employment plan. Rev 3/13/13

49 SHERYL L. SPILLER Director VOCATIONAL ASSESSMENT FACT SHEET PROGRAM OVERVIEW Vocational Assessment is the process by which a professional assessor develops an individualized employment plan which leads a participant to employment based on evaluation of the participant s existing skills, education level, employment interest and goals, vocational assessment test results and local labor market information. The goal of the of Los Angeles County GAIN Vocational/Career Assessment is to help participants achieve employment in an occupation consistent with their education, training, job skills, abilities, personal strengths, and interests. DPSS contracts with professional vocational assessors to provide required services to participants throughout the County. Vocational Assessment takes place during the third week of the Orientation/Job Club/Vocational Assessment (JCO) activity or as a stand-alone activity after Appraisal or after JCO, if the participant did not complete assessment in JCO. Services include the utilization of behavioral tests and observational tools to screen GAIN participants for the development of a Welfare-to-Work employment plan. Providers also conduct barrier screening for mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Services also include post-employment career and comprehensive assessments. The types of assessments for GAIN participants: Vocational Assessment - This activity usually follows the Job Search Component if the participant has not found employment. Based on an evaluation of work history, employment skills, knowledge and ability through appropriate vocational testing and labor market information, an individualized employment plan is developed. Career Assessment - Career Assessment is a post-employment tool to help GAIN participants arrive at short-, mid-, and long-term career goals. The Assessment is customized to help participants identify and fulfill their objectives for future employment. A career plan is developed between the participant and an assessor to identify services which will promote job retention and to assist the participant advance to a better job, a career and economic self-sufficiency. Third-Party Assessment - An Assessment is specifically tailored for participants who are unable to reach an agreement with the assessor on the development of their employment plan. The participant is referred to an impartial Third Party Assessor. Vocational Reassessment - A subsequent Assessment tailored for participants who have completed all assigned components in the established employment plan but have still not found employment. Assessment Fees: Full vocational/career assessment costs $220 per participant, while third-party assessment, vocational reassessment and partial assessment costs $110 per participant.

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51 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services SHERYL L. SPILLER Director DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES (DPSS)/ VITA PROGRAM What is Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)? The VITA program assists low-income families and individuals with free and reliable tax preparation assistance. The IRS sponsors and administers the VITA program with the support of volunteers. In Los Angeles County there are over 150 VITA sites where anyone earning less than $51,000 a year may qualify to have their taxes prepared at no cost. Background The Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) agreed to partner with Internal Revenue Services (IRS) to develop a VITA Program to provide VITA services to eligible DPSS participants. DPSS VITA program has 10 VITA sites located throughout Los Angeles County that provide reliable tax preparation assistance to CalWORKs and CalFresh participants. Purpose DPSS became a VITA provider to determine the benefits and impact of providing income tax assistance preparation to eligible working families with children. The department set the goals: To educate and emphasize the benefits of employment to as many participants as possible, To increase utilization of federal tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) by eligible participants, and To increase participant earnings by providing free tax preparation services and educating them about avoiding the high predatory lending fees offered by commercial tax preparers like the Rapid Anticipation Loans (RALs). DPSS Tax Preparers GAIN Services Workers receive training as VITA tax preparers to assist qualified participants with tax preparation. They receive training on basic tax law and the tax preparation software approved by the IRS. The duration of the training may be one to three days, determined by their previous experience. Each tax preparer must pass a certification exam, issued by the IRS, before they can provide tax preparation assistance to participants Tax Season Assisted over 2,500 families 1,933 returns processed $4.7 million claimed in total tax refund amounts $3.1 million claimed in Earned Income Tax Credit $1.2 million claimed in Child Tax Credit To Enrich Lives Through Effective And Caring Service M.A.L. Page 1 3/13/13

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67 County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services Sheryl L. Spiller Director GENERAL RELIEF FACT SHEET DESCRIPTION General Relief (GR) assists needy adults who are ineligible for State or federal assistance. An average GR case consists of one person, living alone, with no income or resources. The maximum monthly GR grant is $221. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS To be eligible for GR, an individual must be a resident of Los Angeles County. Non-needy caretakers who are timed-off of CalWORKs are also eligible, if the following GR eligibility requirements are met: Monthly net income is lower than the maximum GR grant of $221 for one person. Personal property has a combined value of $500 or less per adult. Motor vehicle is valued at $4,500 or less. Only one motor vehicle may be retained. Cash on hand or in a bank account is valued at $50 or less at application, or $1,500 or less after approval. Real Property (home) has an assessed value of $34,000 or less and signs a lien, allowing the County to recover GR payments received under certain circumstances. SUBSTANCE ABUSE PRE-SCREENING REQUIREMENT Individuals are pre-screened at application for potential substance abuse. If determined to have a substance abuse problem, individuals must attend a County-approved treatment program as a condition of eligibility for GR. SERVICES AVAILABLE: Emergency Aid If eligible to GR, the following aid may be available while GR is pending: Aid to Prevent Eviction Aid to Prevent Utility Shut-off or to Restore Utilities Aid to First Paycheck Meal and Housing Vouchers Transportation to seek jobs/keep medical appointments, etc. Expedited CalFresh benefits. Approximately 90% of GR participants also receive CalFresh benefits. Ineligibles An individual is ineligible to GR if he or she: Was convicted of a drug felony after 12/31/97 and is an unaided member of a CalWORKs Assistance Unit.

68 - 2- SERVICES AVAILABLE: (Continued) Is in violation of probation or parole. Is fleeing to avoid prosecution or custody/confinement after a felony conviction. Special Needs Individuals may receive: A transportation allowance to look for work. A special/therapeutic diet allowance as verified by a doctor. An allowance for tools needed to begin a new job. Health Care Upon GR approval, most GR participants are approved for Healthy Way Los Angeles (HWLA) benefits. HWLA offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty physician visits, prescriptions, and emergency services. Applicants pending approval of GR, or not eligible to HWLA are referred to a County-administered clinics or hospitals for health care services. Supplemental Security Income and Medi-Cal Assistance Program (SSIMAP) Social Workers provide advocacy to help physically/mentally disabled individuals apply for SSI, obtain early SSI approval, and become self-sufficient. If approved for SSI, the maximum monthly grant is $845 versus the monthly GR grant of $221. In addition, SSI recipients receive full-scope Medi-Cal. GR CASELOAD TYPES The GR caseload includes the following employability status classifications: Employable (E) Individuals are designated employable through self-declaration or through an employability screening by contracted medical providers. Individuals determined to be employable are required to participate in the General Relief Opportunities for Work (GROW) program, designed to help them find employment. Employable participants may receive GR for nine months in any 12 month period, provided they continue to comply with GROW requirements. Unemployable (U) Individuals are designated unemployable through an employability screening by contracted medical providers. GR eligibility for unemployable individuals is not time limited, nor are they required to participate in GROW. Permanently disabled individuals or those disabled 12 out of the last 18 months must apply for SSI and are referred to an SSI Advocate for assistance. Needs Special Assistance (NSA) Individuals with mental healt disabilities are designated as NSA. NSAs are given priority treatment in the District Office and are exempt from most GR requirements. GR for NSAs is not time limited, nor are they required to participate in GROW. Evaluation of the mental health disability is conducted by the Department of Mental Health (DMH) or Adult Protective Services (APS) staff, who are co-located in GR Districts. Potentially SSI eligibles are referred to an SSI Advocate for assistance with their SSI application. Administratively Unemployable (AU) Individuals with circumstances that prevent them from seeking employment, other than physical or mental disabilities, may be designated AU. For example, an AU designation may be assigned because an individual provides full time care to an incapacitated family member, is pregnant, or is 65 years of age or older. GR eligibility is not time limited for AUs, nor are they required to participate in GROW.

69 - 3 - GR CASELOAD TYPES (continued) Employable with Restrictions (E) Individuals are designated Employable with restrictions through a medical disability assessment by contracted medical providers. This category is assigned to individuals who are employable, but need certain accommodations in their work preparation program or have certain limitations/restrictions in the type of work they can perform. For example, these individuals may be restricted to sedentary, light, or moderate work due to their physical disability, such as a person with a back problem who may not be able to do work that requires heavy lifting or excessive bending. The restrictions for these individuals must be identified by the contracted medical providers. Individuals determined to be Employable with restrictions are required to participate in the GROW Program. Participation in GROW is limited by the restrictions determined by the contracted medical providers. Individuals who are designated as Employable with Restrictions may receive GR for nine months in any 12 month period, provided they continue to comply with GROW requirements. Unemployable Volunteer (U) Individuals are designated unemployable through a medical disability assessment by contracted medical providers, or through documentation provided by his/her own medical provider; however, he/she would still like to volunteer to participate in GROW. The disability/illness for these individuals must be determined and verified by the contracted medical providers or his/her own personal physician. Participation in GROW is limited by the restrictions identified by the contracted medical provider or his/her own personal physician. GR eligibility for individuals determined Unemployable Volunteers are not time limited, nor are they required to participate in GROW. However, these individuals may volunteer to participate in GROW. No penalties will be applied to GR participants who are designated Unemployable Volunteers for not complying with GROW requirements. (3/13)

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71 SHERYL L. SPILLER Director GENERAL RELIEF OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORK (GROW) FACT SHEET BACKGROUND General Relief Opportunities for Work (GROW) was implemented in February 1999, as approved by the Board of Supervisors under Section of the Welfare and Institutions Code. On August 21, 1998, a law change extended the time limit on eligibility for General Relief (GR) to nine months in any 12 month period and made participation in a welfare-to-work program mandatory for employable GR recipients. In July 2006, GROW implemented a redesign that enhanced its services, provided more flexibility to GROW Case Managers in assigning components based on an individual s employment goals, and eliminated the gap between Orientation and Job Skills Participation Class (JSPC), as well as other time gaps in-between components. This redesign provided new components including Rapid Employment and Promotion (REP), Early Job Search (EJS) and Short Term Training (STT). The Fastrak component was modified to include services to the chronically homeless population, providing a life skills module that addresses this group s specific needs. Other enhancements include changing Vocational Assessment to an optional, rather than a mandatory component to allow the Case Managers more flexibility to address each individual s needs. Participants can be referred to Intensive Case Management (ICM) while they wait for the start date of a new activity in order to keep them continuously engaged in workrelated activities. As a result of the GROW Redesign, participation in the GROW Program meets the CalFresh education/training and work requirements. Therefore, GR participants who are actively and continuously participating in a GROW activity are no longer required to complete Workfare Project assignments. GROW PROGRAM OVERVIEW The goal of GROW is to transition GROW participants into the labor market. Participation is mandatory for all employable GR recipients. Following a brief Orientation, the Case Manager evaluates participants for job readiness during Job Skills Assessment and assigns them to ongoing activities based on each individual s situation. These activities are designed to prepare the participants for employment. Supportive services are included as needed.

72 Employment Needs Evaluation (EVA) - Prior to enrollment in GROW, and as part of the GR application process, all employable and volunteer applicants to GROW are screened to gather information regarding their education and job skills, as well as any potential barriers to employment that may affect their participation in the program. This information is recorded into the GROW computer system and later on utilized by the Case Manager to determine the GROW activities that are appropriate for each individual. GROW Components include: A. Orientation - This component is the first activity in GROW. It consists of a brief twohour presentation to provide participants with an overview of the GROW Program, its services, participation requirements and benefits of employment. Beginning on August 3, 2000, attending Orientation became a condition of GR eligibility. B. Literacy (LIT) This is a voluntary component that was designed to assist participants with literacy barriers learn basic reading and writing skills prior to participation in other GROW activities. Participants take a literacy assessment during Orientation. Participants who fail the literacy test are offered enrollment in English as a Second Language (ESL) or Adult Basic Education classes, as part of their GROW activities. C. General Education Diploma (GED) - This is a voluntary component that was designed to provide participants without a high school diploma an opportunity to earn a GED. Participants are allowed to enroll in a GED preparation course as a primary or concurrent GROW activity. D. Rapid Employment and Promotion (REP) This is a voluntary component offered to participants after Orientation while the GR case is pending. Participants must have a California ID or driver s license, social security card and registration with the Employment Development Department (EDD) in order to be considered for this component. Additionally, there is a selection process to determine if they are job ready and available to start employment immediately if they receive a job offer. E. Early Job Search (EJS) This is a voluntary component offered to interested participants who are willing to participate in intensive job searching activities under the guidance of a job developer, while they wait for their case to be approved. Transportation is issued for traveling to job interviews as needed. F. Job Skills Preparation Class (JSPC) - A three-week activity consisting of a oneweek job skills workshop and two weeks of directed, intensive job search activities. The Employment Development Team (EDT) comprised of the Case Manager, Business Services Specialist (formerly job developer) and facilitator provide support and determine the best way to assist each individual participant in his/her career path, based on information gathered on the Participant Employment Profile (PEP). 2