1004-3          WHAT SUPPORTIVE SERVICES CANNOT BE USED FOR

Basic needs, such as heat, telephone service and electricity are to be funded by a family's Temporary Assistance grant and therefore may not be funded with SS. 

1. Heat & Electricity for their home is not something a family should be without. If a client cannot pay to maintain their heat and/or electricity, they may apply for help from DPADivision of Public Assistance's Heating Assistance Program (HAP) or other charitable organizations. Weatherization assistance may be available through the Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP), Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), or other programs which can help reduce the cost of heating in the future.

2. Telephone service can be vital in searching for employment. If a client cannot pay to maintain their phone, or cannot afford to pay for initial and installation costs, they should apply for Lifeline & Link Up, which works with local telephone companies to significantly discount phone and installation fees. Internet service, cable or satellite television, cell phone, long distance telephone services, caller ID, call waiting, and other add on services are NOT basic services.

3. Court-ordered fees and fines are the responsibility of the client, including but not limited to surcharges, restitution, DMVDivision of Motor Vehicles fees, attorney fees, electronic monitoring fees, or fees for court-ordered classes such as anger management and drug and alcohol education.

4. Subsistence activities (C2) supportive services are not to purchase firearms or ammunition.

5. Internet services may be paid for self-employment, remote employment or adult education purposes on a case by case basis and must be submitted for approval through hss.dpa.policy@alaska.gov.  The request must include the estimated total cost for equipment and services and the length of time supportive services are being requested to cover the expense.