National totals for fiscal year 2002 show recipient caseloads ended the year at 4,995,719 -- decline of 6.2 percent since the end of previous fiscal year and a decline of 59.2 percent since August of 1996, when the TANF law went into effect. Additionally, families receiving TANF benefits declined 3.9 percent to 2,024,691 since the end of the previous fiscal year. Overall, since the TANF legislation was enacted in August of 1996, the number of families receiving TANF assistance has dropped by 54.1 percent, according to statistics from HHS' Administration for Children and Families (ACF).

As noted in Jim Dalman

Full report: TANF Fifth Annual Report to Congress
HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson today announced the release of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Fifth Annual Report to Congress. The report, covering fiscal year 2001, highlights the status of the TANF caseloads, work participation rates, state expenditures, characteristics of TANF recipients, and other state policies.

DHSS Commissioner Names Three Division Directors
(Juneau)

The world is a much better place to live for many, many lives because of our first Star's expertise and compassion. A Star of our agency since July 1985, 18 years. This star's aura shines brightly. Described by co-workers as soft-spoken and calm, with a extremely strong intellect, an excellent grasp of our systems and human behavior - this star is someone client's and co-workers have learned they can admire and rely on.