Your VIDHS Episode 4 - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Your VIDHS - Episode 4: Unveiling TANF Insights with Dr. Cira Burke & Judy David!
Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Your VIDHS"! In Episode 4, we delve into the heart of social assistance programs, shining a spotlight on the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
Join us as we sit down with two incredible guests who play pivotal roles in TANF - Dr. Cira Burke, the Program Director, and Judy David, the Eligibility Supervisor. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to help us unravel the intricacies of TANF and its impact on those in need.
Introduction:
- Host: Ryan Nugent
- Guests: Dr. Cira Burke (Director of TANF/JOBS Program), Miss Judy David (Eligibility Supervisor, TANF/JOBS Program)
- Theme: Highlighting the US Virgin Islands Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program.
Segment 1: Overview of TANF Program
- Dr. Cira Burke explains the unique and dynamic nature of the TANF program, focusing on providing financial assistance to low-income families with dependent members.
- Emphasis on engaging participants in work-related, educational, and job training activities to promote self-sufficiency.
Segment 2: Eligibility Requirements
- Ms. Judy David details the eligibility criteria, including age, citizenship, Social Security requirements, and resource limitations.
- Discussion on the application process and where individuals can obtain and submit applications.
Segment 3: Paternity and Child Support
- The importance of paternity and child support in the eligibility process is explained.
- Ms. Judy David elaborates on the role of Paternity in establishing court actions for absent parents and ensuring child support.
Segment 4: Work Hour Requirements
- Discussion on the mandatory registration with the jobs program and the minimum 20 hours per week work requirement.
- Emphasis on the necessity of fulfilling paternity and child support requirements before opening a TANF case.
Segment 5: Promoting Self-Sufficiency
- Dr. Cira Burke elaborates on how the TANF program promotes self-sufficiency through education, vocational training, and volunteer opportunities.
- Highlighting success stories of individuals evolving through the program and entering the workforce.
Segment 6: Core and Non-Core Activities
- Ms. Judy David outlines the core activities, including employment, vocational training, and community service.
- Discussion on non-core activities such as job skills training, secondary education, and education related to employment.
Segment 7: Relationship with SNAP
- Ms. Judy David explains the relationship between TANF and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Details on how individuals applying for SNAP may be eligible for TANF assistance.
Segment 8: Community Collaborations
- Dr. Cira Burke discusses partnerships with UVI, Viya, and the Department of Labor, enhancing program offerings.
- Mention of vocational tech programs at CTEC and Ralph Wheatley Skill Center.
Segment 9: V.I. Prep Program
- Dr. Cira Burke shares information about the Virgin Islands Personal Responsibility Education Program (V.I. Prep).
- Collaboration with the Department of Education to create awareness and reduce teen pregnancy and risk behaviors.
Segment 10: Addressing Myths
- Ms. Judy David addresses myths about the TANF program, particularly the misconception of a lack of hope once enrolled.
- Emphasis on the individualized coaching approach provided by the program.
Segment 11: Encouragement to Potential Participants
- Ms. Judy David encourages individuals to visit the office for questions and emphasizes the program's designed to help achieve self-sufficiency.
- Dr. Cira Burke expresses her vision for expanding the program's equity to better serve diverse communities.
Conclusion:
- Host expresses gratitude to guests for shedding light on the TANF program.
- Closing remarks on the significance of TANF/JOBS program as a vital service within the Department of Human Services.
Outro:
- Closing statement by the host, thanking the audience for tuning in to another informative episode of "Your VIDHS."