WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT UNIT
Ohio Works First (OWF)
The OWF Program provides time-limited (up to 36 months) cash assistance to families with minor children. During this time, the DJFS worker develops a plan to help the family become self-sufficient and not dependent on public assistance. Gas allowance reimbursement is offered for those experiencing a transportation cost. Cooperation with Child Support is required as well as participation in an assignment that will provide opportunities to gain skills that will lead to self-sufficiency
ACTIVITIES
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WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM
Recipients of OWF cash assistance are required to complete hours each week in an activity that will enhance their employment skills. These assignments could include education or job skill training or basic job experience skills. Those who are physically or mentally unable to participate are assigned to an alternative program that will prepare them to become employed or to enter an educational program.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
The purpose of the Education and Training (E and T) component, is to increase a participant’s employability potential. An assessment of the recipients basic skill level, interest and motivation in securing education and/or training; the recipients marketable skills as well as other factors is done to determine if the E and T component is the best plan for the recipient to achieve self support. Three types of programs are available:
- Basic Education
- Post-Secondary Education
- Job Skill
LEARNING EARNING AND PARENTING
The Learning Earning and Parenting Program provides pregnant teens and teen parents extra OWF cash. A $62 dollar bonus may be added to the grant if pregnant teens, or teen parents living with their children, stay in school, go to classes regularly, participate in a general equivalency diploma (GED) program. Teens participating in LEAP may also be eligible for Daycare and Transportation. Teens who do not participate when required will have money deducted from their cash grant.
SUBSIDIZED EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
The purpose of SEP is to provide employable recipients with an opportunity to secure employment while providing Ohio employers an incentive to hire recipients of public assistance. Public and private non-profit employers and private-for-profit employers are eligible to participate in SEP. These employers will be eligible for federal or state funds as an incentive for hiring OWF recipients. SEP contracts will be negotiated by the work programs staff on an individual basis. SEP cases are not sanctionable, but may be reviewed for participation in another program. Tracking of a participant’s employment when hired, and also supportive services, is part of the services offered in this area.