739              WORK:  SUPPORTIVE SERVICE PAYMENTS

Supportive Service Payments often make the difference between continued unemployment and the participant's ability to gain employment.  The need must be specific, identified in the Plan, directly related to an approved activity or employment opportunity, or an activity that is needed by the client prior to beginning work search and becoming self-sufficient.

Note:

Supportive Service payments are not considered income and are not factored into the eligibility determination.

Supportive services are to be used to support client engagement in activities identified on the FSSPFamily Self-Sufficiency Plan. This includes those clients who are voluntarily participating in family self-sufficiency planning. See ATAPAlaska Temporary Assistance Program MSManual Section 719 for information on parents eligible to voluntarily participate in family self-sufficiency planning.

Supportive service payments are not automatic or an entitlement.  Each request must be examined to determine if the participant truly has a need for the service and it will assist the family in achieving self sufficiency.

WSPWork Services Provider leadership will set local procedures for authorization of supportive services, including special consideration for local resources and partner agencies that may provide services without charge. The participant's personal resources, such as Permanent Fund Dividends (PFD), also must be considered prior to authorization of a service.

Refer to WSPM 1004 for a complete description of each type of supportive service offered through Work Services.