Welfare Transition Program (WTP)
In October of 1996, two Acts went into law that dramatically changed welfare programs in the State of Florida and around the country. The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) legislation changed the nation’s welfare system from the receipt of cash assistance as an entitlement to one that requires work in exchange for time-limited assistance.
In October of 1996, Florida enacted the Work and Gain Economic Self Sufficiency (WAGES) Act. The Act was developed to implement the requirements of TANF and to emphasize work, self-sufficiency and personal responsibility, as well as time-limited assistance. In October 2000, the Florida Workforce Innovation Act, Senate Bill 2010, was passed. It substantially redefined Florida’s welfare delivery system by replacing the former WAGES program with the Welfare Transition Program. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), signed into law on July 22, 2014, is the first legislative reform of the public workforce system in 15 years. WIOA created improved access to comprehensive services in the One-Stop delivery system, to include the Welfare Transition Program throughout the State of Florida and across the entire United States.
The goal of Florida’s Welfare Transition (WT) program is to emphasize work, self-sufficiency, and personal responsibility. To accomplish this goal, the Florida legislature, using federal and state funding, has developed an array of support services and programs.
Provided Services Include:
- Specialized Case management Services
- Job Search Assistance
- Interviewing Techniques
- Individualized Skills Assessments
- Employability Workshops and Life Skills Training
- Educational/Vocational School Assistance
- Work Experience/Job Leads
- Monthly Travel Allowance
- Referral Services
You can read more facts regarding the Welfare Transition Program by visiting the Florida Department of Economic Development FAQ’s.
Local Contact:
Tarae Donaldson, Welfare Transition and SNAP Program Manager
Phone: 850-607-8817
Email: tdonaldson@careersourceescarosa.com