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HomeMy WebLinkAbout992419.tiff RESOLUTION RE: APPROVE AMENDMENT TO COLORADO WORKS IN WELD COUNTY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with an Amendment to the Colorado Works in Weld County Policies and Procedures Manual by the Department of Social Services, with terms and conditions being as stated in said amendment, and WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said amendment, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, ex-officio Board of Social Services, that the amendment to Colorado Works in Weld County Policies and Procedures Manual be, and hereby is, approved. The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by the following vote on the 4th day of October, A.D., 1999. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS - WELD COUNTY, COLORADO ATTEST: 444/ I�/,y ' lt_ a% EXCUSED DATE OF SIGNING (AYE) Dale . Hall, Chair Weld County Clerk to th- Ba. ic O t' 1�t L- $':arbara J. Kirkmeyer, Pr.-Tem t BY: yd 1'?.r-ti . Deputy Clerk to the Bo.r.� George axer APPROVED AS TO FORM: _ 7 . J Ge le C'dunty Attorney /11((i4(,(,/, 7./z.M Glenn Vaad -- SS 992419 I SS0026 DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES PO BOX A GREELEY,CO 80632 Administration and Public Assistance(970)352-1551 tSupportServices (970)352-6933 Protective and Youth Services(970)352-1923 • COLORADO MEMORANDUM TO: Dale K. Hall, Chairman Date: September 29, 1999 Board of County Commissioners FR: Judy A. Gtiego, Director, Social Services _ y C1 Cfc� RE: Revisions to Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies-and Procedures Section of the Weld County Department of Social Services Operations Manual Enclosed for Bcard approval are revisions to the Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures Section of the Weld County Department of Social Services Operations Manual. The major purposes of the revisions are as follows: 1. Expand Supportive Service Payments of up to $3,300 to Caretaker Relatives on Beha If of Children in Their Care (Excluding Adoptive or Natural Parent). This new component to the Colorado Works Program will assist caretaker relatives (grandparents and other relatives) above the $99 per month per child cash ass stance, by providing a maximum supportive service level of$3,300 per year per child. Reference Section 6.027.1. 2. Increase supportive services level under the State Diversion Program from a maximum limit of$1,000 to $3,300 per year and allow for more flexibility for its use for purposes of meeting the work participation rate. The new maximum limit of$3,300 would provide an alternative for clients who may be interested in relocating, require temporary assistance, have temporary illness or • incapacitation or women who recently have given birth. Reference Sections 6.007.2 and 6.007.3. 3. Add a County Diversion Program that will allow the Department to reimburse the Weld Food Bank for the cost of"emergency food boxes" on behalf of clients referred by the Department. The cost will be $14.80 per food box for hose clients who have established a need, who have been referred by the Weld County Department of Social Services and who meet the gross family income Delow 185% of poverty. For this purpose, an Agreement will be • 992419 developed between the Weld Food Bank and the Department. Reference Section 6.009.1 4. Comply with recent State rule changes that require a county to define under which conditions child care is unavailable for Colorado Works clients and to notify clients of this county determination. Reference Section 6.005.1, 5. Establish the budget transfer from the Department to the Weld County Division of Human Services. The budget transfer of$278,393 for the Weld County Department of Human Services for purposes of the Colorado Works Program has been determined for the period of July 1, 1999 through Junc 30, 2000. Reference Section 6.012.6. 6. Increase Child Care Rates to Market Rates: The Department's survey of market rates for licensed child care centers and home care providers will result in rate increases of approximately 10%. The Department recommends an increase of 25% I or unlicensed child care providers who assist in providing infant care and have not received any cost of living increases for more than three years. Reference Section 6.014.2. 7. Expand Eligibility for Child Care Assistance from 155% of poverty to 185% of poverty. The Department recommends that the expansion of eligibiliiy for child care assistance will assist the working parent remain employed and promote self-sufficiency. It is anticipated that this expansion with result in a 15% increase in caseload. Reference Section 6.014.1 8. Request to Obligate Resources from the Colorado Works County Reserve Transfer. The Department anticipates a potential need to transfer up to S1,000,000 from county reserve allowable to child care expenses for this year. Weld County may de-obligate these funds during the year to a new level and the remaining funds will return to the county reserve. If you have any questions, please telephone me at extension 6510. 2 Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures Table of Contents SECTION: TITLE: 6.000 Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.001 Definition and Legal Basis 6.002 Eligibility and Basic Grant Assistance 6.002.1 Eligibility 6.002.2 Domestic Violence Screening 6.002.3 Basic Grant Assistance 6.003 Client Assessment 6.003.1 Applicant 6.003.1 I Department Responsibilities 6.003.12 Employment Services Responsibilities 6.003.2 Recipients 6.003.21 Department Responsibilities 6.003.22 Employment Services Responsibilities 6.003.3 Participant Assessment 6.004 Individual Responsibility Contract 6.004.1 Department Responsibilities with the IRC 6.004.2 Employment Services Responsibilities with the IRC 6.005 Temporary Good Cause Exemptions from Work Participation 6.005.1 Reasons for Temporary Good Cause Exemption from Work Participation 6.005.2 Redetermination of Temporary Good Cause Exemptions 6.005.3 Participant Appeal of Non-Exempt Status Under Temporary Good Cause Exemptions 6.006 Work Participation Requirements and Work Activities 6.006.1 Work Participation Requirements 6.006.12 Job Ready 6.006.2 Work Activities 6.006.21 Work Supplementation Program 6.006.211 Work Participation Standard with an Employer 6.006.212 Work Supplementation Responsibilities of an Employer 6.006.213 Work Supplementation Responsibilities of the Department 6.006.214 General Participant Screening Criteria 6.006.215 General Requirements for Training 6.006.22 Work Supplementation Program with Temporary Employment Agencies 6.006.221 Work Participation Standard with Temporary Employment Agencies 6.006.222 Work Supplementation Responsibilities with Temporary Employment Agencies Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.006.223 Work Supplementation Responsibilities of the Department 6.006.224 General Participant Screening Criteria 6.006.225 General Requirements for Training 6.00623 Public Sector Work Activity 6.006.231 Public Sector Work Activity Agreement 6.006.232 Optional Training Under the Public Sector Work Activity Agreement 6.00624 Private Sector Work Activity 6.006.241 Private Sector Work Activity Agreement 6.006.242 Optional Training Under the Private Sector Work Activity Agreement 6.006.25 On-the-Job Training Program 6.006.26 IRC Skill Development Seminar 6.006.27 Community Service Program 6.006.28 Vocational Education Training (not to exceed 12 months with respect to any participant) 6.006.29 Job Skills Training 6.006.30 Education Directly Related to Employment (for a participant who has not received a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency) 6.006.31 Secondary School or Equivalent Education 6.006.32 County Designed Occupational Skills Training Program(not to exceed twelve months with respect to any participant) 6.006.33 Other Work Activities as Approved and Authorized 6.007 Weld County Grant Diversion Program (State Grant Diversion Program) 6.007.1 Client Assessment 6.007.2 Payment Limit and Types of Payment 6.007.3 Pre-Authorization Information 6.007.4 Authorization of Payment under the Individual Responsibility Contract and Limitations 6.007.5 Eligibility Waiver Period for Colorado Works in Weld County Assistance 6.007.6 Authorized Payee 6.007.7 Submission of Payment 6.007.8 Vendor Accepts Voucher Payment 6.007.9 Vendor Does Not Accept Voucher Payment 6.007.10 Responsibility of Department's Eligibility Technician 6.007.11 Responsibility of Department's Business Office 6.008 Job Retention and Skills Training Program (County Diversion Program) 6.008.1 Eligible Participants 6.008.2 General Requirements for Training 6.009 Participant Sanctions or Other Assistance and Separate County Division 6.009.1 Emergency Food Assistance through the Weld Food Bank 6.010 Supportive Services(non-Child Care) 6.010.1 Transportation 6.010.2 Participation Related Services ii Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.010.3 Method of Payment 6.010.4 Supportive Services Expenditure Limit 6.010.5 Participant Criteria to Receive Supportive Services 6.011 Participant Sanctions and Appeals 6.011.1 Participant Sanctions 6.011.11 Definition of Sanctions 6.011.12 Notice of Proposed Applicant or Recipient Sanction 6.011.2 Absences or Late Occurrences of Participants in Work Supplementation Programs, On-the-Job Training Program, and the Job Retention and Skills Training Program 6.011.3 Absences from or Late Occurrences to Other Work Activities or Scheduled Appointments 6.011.31 Late Occurrences to Work Activities and Scheduled Appointments 6.011.32 Absences from Work Activities and Scheduled Appointments 6.011.33 Definition of Immediate Family for Purposes of Section 6.009.12 6.011.4 Participant Appeals 6.012 Organization, Flow Chart, and Budget Plan 6.012.1 General Organization 6.012.2 Joint Functions of the Department and the Employment Services 6.012.3 Functions of the Department 6.012.4 Functions of Employment Services 6.012.5 Participant Flow Chart 6.012.6 Budget Transfer from the Depai intent to Employment Services 6.013 Performance Outcomes 6.013.1 Federal and State Participation Rates and Required Hours of Participation 6.013.2 Weld County Outcomes 6.014 Child Care 6.014.1 Client Eligibility 6.0142 Child Care Provider Rates 6.014.3 Registration, Activity, and Transportation 6.014.31 Absences 6.014.32 Registration, Activity, and Transportation Fee 6.014.33 20% Rule 6.014,34 Immunizations 6.015 Food Stamp Interface 6.016 Medicaid Interface 6.017 Social Services Division Interface 6.017.1 Procedures iii Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.018 Child Support Interface 6.018.1 Individual Responsibility Contract 6.018.2 Child Support Payments 6.018.3 Child Support Assessment 6.019 Weld County Housing Authority Interface 6.019.1 Client Preferences for the Weld County Housing Authority Section S Program 6.019.2 Participation and Notification 6.019.3 Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) 6.019.4 Sanctions and Appeals 6.020 Community Agency Interface 6.021 Reporting Requirements 6.022 Out of Wedlock Births Plan 6.023 Statutory Rape Plan 6.024 Contracts or Other Agreements to Purchase Services 6.025 Earned Income Tax Credit 6.026 Individual Development Accounts 6.027 County Optional Other Assistance 6.027.1 Supportive Service Payments Made to Caretaker Relatives on Behalf of Children in Their Care (Not an Adoptive or Natural Parent) 6.027.2 Eligibility Criteria 6,027.3 Supportive Service Payment Limit 6.028 County Optional Diversion Grants 6.029 Any Other Services Exhibit A-1: Weld County Individual Responsibility Contract(IRC) (For Non-Diversion Program) Exhibit A-2: Weld County Individual Responsibility Contract (IRC) (For Diversion Program) Exhibit B: Work Supplementation Agreement Exhibit C: Work Supplementation Agreement with Temporary Employment Agencies Exhibit D: Public Sector Work Activity Agreement Exhibit E: Private Sector Work Activity Agreement Exhibit F: Participant Flow Chart Exhibit G: Client Baseline Information for Colorado Works in Weld County Exhibit H: Notice of Proposed Action Exhibit I: Dispute Resolution Process Exhibit J: Weld County Child Care Exemption Form iv Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.002 Eligibility and Basic Grant Assistance Effec eve 9/10/97 6.002.1 Eligibility Revised 9/99 The Department will follow those general eligibility guidelines for Colorado Works in Weld County as established by the Colorado Department of Human Services. The State Department outlines these guidelines in Section 3.600, Volume III, Income Maintenance Programs, and the Colorado State Plan for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families. Eligible recipients for Colorado Works in Weld County benefits are subject to the availability of funds. If funding is available, the family will be eligible for a cash grant, services, or vouchers if: A. The family's gross income is under the standards in effect on July 16, 1996, and; B. Resources do not exceed $2000. Countable resources are the same as included in Colorado's State Plan in effect on July 16, 1997, for AFDC except that one car is exempt from countable resources. C. Additional supportive services may be available to employed individuals as outlined in the county plan. D. The family may be eligible for family preservation services as determined under the standards effective as of September 30, 1995. E. Minor parents under age eighteen: Revised 3/98 1. who are not married must reside or intend to return to their parent's or guardian's home unless there are indications that this may be an abusive or neglectful environment. Those situations where there is suspected abuse of neglect will be referred to Child Welfare Service EN Evaluation; 2. who have not completed high school or its equivalent, must also attend high school, work on a GED, or be in an alternative education or training program approved by the State to be eligible for assistance. F. Teen parents will be approved if they attend an educational program. If they have dropped out, they will need to meet the provisions of eligibility for minors. G. The following persons will be ineligible for Colorado Works in Weld County: 1. Fugitive felons and parole probation violators. 2. Persons convicted of drug-related felonies after July 1, 1997, unless such person is determined to have taken action toward rehabilitation. H. Qualified legal aliens entering the country after August 22, 1996, except federally authorized exceptions. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.002.2 Domestic Violence Screening Colorado Works in Weld County will follow the State rules concerning domestic violence screening. All Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients will be given the opportunity voluntarily and confidentially to identify themselves as victims of domestic violence. The Department will inform staff of support services for domestic violence victims and make appropriate referrals to those services. Training will be provided to Depai intent staff on domestic violence issues and how to identify domestic violence victims and circumstances. Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients who are domestic violence victims will have the opportunity to apply for the county's temporary good cause exemption from work participation. 6.002.3 Basic Cash Assistance Basic cash assistance grants will be provided to eligible Colorado Works in Weld County recipients in accordance with statewide benefit levels and other Colorado State Department of Human Service regulations identified in Volume III, section 3.600. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.005 Temporary Good Cause Exemptions from Work Participation Effective 9/10/07 The Department will exempt individuals receiving or applying for benefits from participation in work or training activities based on individual or family situations. These exempted people will still qualify under Weld County's work participation rate 6.005.1 Reasons for Temporary Good Cause Exemption from Work Participation Revised 9/99 Temporary good cause reasons for exemption from work participation will include but not be limited to those listed below: A. A Colorado Works applicant or participant who is caring for child(ren) who is under age six (6) is exempt from work activities if one or more of the following conditions apply: 1. Affordable child care arrangements are unavailable in Welc'i County when the cost of available child care exceeds the maximum amount Weld County Department of Social Services deems as appropriate and considers a participant could pay. Appropriate child care would not exist if there was no facility or home available when a child's health and safety could not reasonably be assured, or 2. Informal child care does not exist when a TANF recipient cannot make arrangements for child care with a relative or acquaintance and assure that the child's health and safety would not be in jeopardy, or 3. Child care is not available when it is not within a reasonable distance from work or home to allow the recipient to effectively participate in the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. It must also be demonstrated that a reasonable commuting time and/or alternative transportation is also not available. B. Transportation - An applicant or a recipient residing at a location too remote for effective participation in work activities is exempt from participation. The person must demonstrate that he or she is unable to get to and from the site of a work activity within a reasonable commuting time or does not have alternative transportation. C. Temporary Incapacity -An applicant or a recipient who has an illness or injury (may include domestic violence)which prevents entry into employment or training for a temporary period not to exceed three months. D. Incapacitated Household Member - An applicant or a recipient needed in the home to care for an incapacitated member of the household. E. Jobs or Work Sites - If the Depatuient's program does not have available jobs and work sites, the applicant or recipient is exempted from participation. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures F. Relative Care - A non-parent participant who has children living with him or her for whom out-of-home placement would be necessary if the Department discontinued the assistance. 6.005.2 Redetermination of Temporary Good Cause Exemptions The Department will redetermine the recipient's exempt status not to exceed three months, and possibly sooner, depending on the individual or family situation. 6.005.3 Participant Appeal of Non-Exempt Status Under Temporary Good Cause Exemptions The Department will send a notice of adverse action to all applicants and recipients, who in the opinion of the Department. do not meet the exempt status of temporary good cause. The Depat tment's process is outlined in Section 6.011.12 of the Department's Operations Manual. The ?articipant may appeal his or her nonexempt status under Temporary Good Cause Exemption (Sections 6.0051 and 6.0053)by following the procedures outlined in Section 6.01 L.12 of the Department's Operations Manual. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.007 Weld County Grant Diversion Program (State Grant Diversion Program) Effective 9/10/97 Revised 12/98 The purpose of the Weld County Grant Diversion Program is to offer an alternative to participants who are eligible for Colorado Works in Weld County Program, but could avoid the need of such cash assistance if the Department granted the recipient assistance in another-form, in either a monthly payment or a "lump sum"payment. The Department will comply with the general guidelines established by the Colorado Department of Human Services and outlined in Section 3.602, Volume III, Income Maintenance Programs. 6.007.1 Client Assessment The Department will assess a client who requests a Grant Diversion Payment as follows: A. Determine the client's eligibility for the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. B. Identify the level of monthly benefits the client is eligible to receive. C. Identify any special conditions attached to the eligibility determination of the client. 6.007.2 Payment Limit and Types of Payments Revised 12/98 Revised 9/99 The client may be eligible for payments, not to exceed$3,300 for a family unit per year. Payments will be to assist in removing barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment. Payments will include but not limited to, vision, tools, vehicle repair, clothing, transportation and housing assistance. 6.007.3 Pre-Authorization Information Revised 9/99 For each client, preauthorization information shall be considered by the authorizing TANF supervisor or acting supervisor, in determining if a payment should be provided and the amount of payment to the client. This preauthorization information must justify such cash assistance to secure or maintain employment. The authorizing TANF supervisor or acting supervisor shall consider the client's information as follows: A. A potential employer must verify an employment opportunity in writing. B. A client must demonstrate that he or she has the opportunity, willingness. ability, qualifications and minimum screening criteria to participate in an employment related activity, or C. A client does not have major supportive service issues or barriers that would prohibit his or her success in securing or maintaining employment and result in long-term dependency on Colorado Works in Weld County cash assistance. D. State Diversion for Incapacity or Illness l. TANF recipients or applicants may be eligible for State Diversion if they are presently unable to obtain and/or maintain available employment or Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures training opportunities as determined by the Weld County Department of Social Services. State Diversion for Incapacity or Illness may not exceed 90 days (three months) in duration; however, the applicant/recipient may receive Diversion funds more than once per year. An applicant/recipient is eligible for State Diversion for Incapacity or Illness if they meet the following criteria. a. Personally have a serious health condition which precludes them from actively participating in employment or training activities and that serious health condition is confirmed in writing by a medical doctor, or b. Needed to care for a relative that has an injury, illness, or physical or mental impairment which requires continuing care by a health care provider. The illness or injury must be verified in writing by a medical doctor. c. Birth of a Child-An applicant/recipient may receive State Diversion Funds for up to 12 weeks (three months) after the birth to care for the newborn child. 6.007.4 Authorization of Payment under the Individual Responsibility Contract and Revised 9/99 Limitations The client may receive a cash assistance payment if the Department provides it under the Individual Responsibility Contract. A payment cannot exceed $3,300 for a family unit per year. The authorizing TANF supervisor or acting supervisor will authorize all payments. 6.007.5 Eligibility Waiver Period for Colorado Works in Weld County Assistance Clients receiving Grant Diversion Assistance shall agree to waive eligibility for Colorado Works in Weld County assistance payments for a period specified in the Individual Responsibility Contract. The duration of the waiver is negotiable between the client's assigned Department staff member, the authorizing Department supervisor, and the client. The duration of the waiver should generally be calculated by dividing the grant diversion payment by the client's monthly grant assistance amount. 6.007.6 Authorized Payee Revised 9/99 Grant diversion payments will be made payable to the vendor providing the product or service whenever possible, or paid to the participant through their EBT account. The TANF supervisor or acting supervisor must authorize any payments. Exceptions should be considered extremely rare and will only be authorized upon frill demonstration that all other available options have been explored and determined to be unfeasible. 6.007.7 Submission of Payment Revised 9/99 The Department's Business Office will generate payment for the grant diversion payment once each of the following procedural steps is completed: Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures A. The Department's Eligibility Technician submits the Individual Responsibility Contract to the authorizing Department supervisor for signature of authorization. B. The authorizing Department supervisor reviews the Individual Responsibility Contract for thoroughness, accuracy and reasonableness. If a contract meets standards, the Supervisor signs contract authorizing purchase of product or service. 6.007.8 Vendor Accepts Voucher Payments If a vendor accepts vouchers from the Department, the Eligibility Technician issues a voucher to the client specifying: A. The vendor from whom product or service is to be purchased, B. The maximum dollar amount authorized for payment, and C. The expiration date of the voucher. This date shall be a period of from one day to one month, depending on the type of assistance being provided and the circumstances of the case. 6.007.9 Vendor Does Not Accept Voucher Payments Revised 9/99 If a vendor does not accept vouchers from the Department, the Eligibility Technician may issue the funds through the participant's EBT account with supervisor's approval. 6.007.10 Responsibility of the Department's Eligibility Technician Revised 9/99 The Eligibility Technician submits copy of an authorization for EBT payment, or copy of Voucher to the Business Office for payment. 6.007.11 Responsibility of the Department's Business Office The Business Office will pay for grant diversion payments according to a predefined payment time schedule, which they shall make available to the authorizing Department supervisor. Any request for payment in advance of a payment time schedule must be authorized in writing by the Department's Director. Exceptions should be considered extremely rare and will only be authorized upon full demonstration that they have explored and determined all other available options to be unfeasible. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.009 Participant Sanctions or other Assistance and Separate County Diversion Effective 9/10/97 6.009.1 Emergency Food Assistance Through the Weld Food Bank Added 9/99 A. County Division TANF funds will be expended to reimburse the Weld Food Bank for the cost of"emergency food boxes." Reimbursement will be made at the rate of$14.80 per food box. Reimbursement will be made if the food box recipient meets the following criteria: 1. Is referred by the Weld County Department of Social Services. 2. Gross family income is below 185% of poverty. 3. Has an emergency food assistance need as determined by the Weld County Department of Social Services. 4. Has not received four or more Emergency Food Boxes in a six (6) month time period. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.010 Supportive Services (non-Child Care) Effective 9/10/97 The Department's case managers will arrange supportive services for the participant, as appropriate. Participation related expenses and supportive services are those expenses and services determined necessary by the case manager for an individual to participate in any Colorado Works in Weld County work component and/or activity. Supportive services will be provided for the participant engaged in an activity that is part of his or her Individual Responsibility Contract. 6.010.1 Transportation Those transportation costs necessary and directly related to Colorado Works in Weld County work and/or training component participation shall be made according to the individual's situations: A. Calculated at .20 cents per mile; or B. A flat daily rate of$2.00 may be provided. 6.010.2 Participation Related Services Other participation related expenses and supportive services may include but are not limited to, clothing, uniforms, eyeglasses, dental work, tools, auto repairs, dues and fees, and also licensing exams, such as RN, LPN, electrician, and self improvement classes. 6.0103 Method of Payment Revised 9/99 Supportive Services may be payable to the vendor providing the product and/or service or paid to the participant through their EBT account. All payments will be approved by the Unit supervisor or acting supervisor. 6.010.4 Supportive Services Expenditure Limit Added 7/1/98 Revised 9/99 The ..otal expenditures for participation related expenses and supportive services may not exceed $3,300.00 per family unit per year. The year begins with the month in which the first payment is made for the Colorado Works in 'Weld County participant. Transportation allowances paid to individuals in Public or Private Work Experience assignments do not count against this $3,300.00. 6.010.5 Participant Criteria to Receive Supportive Services A Colorado Works in Weld County recipient or applicant must be maintaining an acceptable level of performance as outlined in the IRC. Acceptable level of performance is demonstrated progress with the employment or educational facility requirements. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.012 Organization,Flow Chart, and Budget Effective 9710/97 6.012.1 General Organization The organization of Colorado Works in Weld County involves two major county departments and an advisory committee as follows: A. The Weld County Department of Social Services (Department) B. The Weld County Division of Human Services (Human Services) on behalf of Employment Services of Weld County (Employment Services) C. The Weld County Private Industry Council, an advisory committee to the Board of Weld County Commissioners, as the Board of Social Services, and Human Services. 6.012.2 Joint Functions of the Department and the Employment Services A. Develop, plan, and amend the Department's Operations Manual as it relates to the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. B. Develop, plan, and amend procedures, guidelines, principles, and policies for program operations to be approved by the Board of Social Services. C. Provide case management services for Colorado Works in Weld County participants as described in the Department's Operations Manual procedures, as amended. D. Prepare and provide client tracking and the monitoring of participant, program. goals, and program outcomes to assure that the Department meets the intent:of the law and the Department is using resources for the maximum benefit of the client. E. Participate in the dispute resolution conferences with participants. F. Meet the monthly average participation rates as described in the Depai tment's Operations Manual, as amended. G. Provide a public record of the resources devoted, activities undertaken, and performance achieved for the benefit of the Board of Weld County Commissioners, funding sources, the Weld County Private Industry Council, local citizenry, and taxpayers. 6.0123 Functions of the Department A. Provide overall program administration of the Colorado Works in Weld County Program, as outlined in Public Law 100-485 and 9CCR 2503-1, Section 3.630. B. Implement actions involving Colorado Works in Weld County recipients, including: 1. Determination of Colorado Works in Weld County eligibility Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 2. Determination of exemption status 3. Determination and application of sanctions 4. Providing notices of action affecting eligibility and payment 5. Providing dispute resolution conferences and final agency action C. Initially assess through Social Services case managers, supportive service needs and provide child care for those Colorado Works in Weld County participants who need such services to participate in the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. Coordinate with Employment Services to provide supportive services as needed in order to remain in Colorado Works in Weld County Program and remain in compliance with State regulations. D. Refer Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients to Employment Services for employability assessment; assignments of works activity participation; and ongoing Colorado Works in Weld County component participation. E. Participate in joint planning,program development, monitoring and implementation of Colorado Works in Weld County, Employment First, and other related employment and training programs for Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients with Employment Services. F. Provide training to Employment Services in the operation of Colorado Works in Weld County and related activities through the Colorado Department of Human Services and other appropriate training sources, as applicable. G. The Department shall establish billing procedures and reimburse Employment Services for actual,reasonable, and necessary expenses incurred in providing services pursuant to Section 6.012.6. Ii. Provide the initial information and orientation materials for Colorado Works in Weld County participants as prescribed through 9CCR 2503-1, Section 3.634.13. 6.012.4 Functions of Employment Services A. Prepare employability assessment of Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients including participation barriers for purposes of the individual responsibility contract and assignment to Colorado Works in Weld County work activities. B. Develop, monitor, and direct mandatory and optional work activities as described in 9CCR 2503-1, Sections 3.600, and the Weld County Department of Social Services Operations Manual. C. Complete all necessary client, employer, or work site agreements and related paperwork for Colorado Works in Weld County work activities. D. Determine the time and dates for scheduling employability assessment so the Department may refer Colorado Works in Weld County applicants and recipients to Employment Services. E. Assess and recommend additional supportive services for Colorado Works in Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures Weld County participants to continue in Colorado Works in Weld County activities or employment. Notify Department case managers of supportive service referrals. F. Approve work activities based on the aptitude, skills, and background.of the client, and labor market demand. Amend the Individual Responsibility Contract with the client. G. Determine if the Colorado Works in Weld County participant is satisfactorily progressing in work activities through progress described in the Basic Work Skills Development Report, adherence to time and attendance policies, and other policies and procedures of the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. H. Provide an itemized statement of expenditure and request for payment of any services provided to a Colorado Works in Weld County participant. This itemized statement would include, but not limited to, any expense incurred for the Employment Services learning laboratory, Mini-Bus transportation, and testing. This itemized statement must be submitted by the 15th of the following month that the service was provided to the Depai fluent. The client information on the itemized statement must include cost, COIN State ID, and COIN household number. I. Provide proper invoices and verification of services performed by Employment Services for costs incurred in the performance of Employment Services as described in Section 6.012.6. 6.012.5 Participant Flow Chart The participant flow chart is described in Exhibit F. 6.012.6 Budget Transfer from the Department to Employment Services Revised 7/1/98 Revised 9/99 The Department will remit to Employment Services an amount not to exceed.$278,393.25 for services provided from July 1, 1999 through June 30, 2000. Employment Services will bill the Department for services provided as described in Section 6.012.4 of the Deprrtment's Operations Manual and will not seek additional reimbursement for these same services directly from the Colorado Department of Human Services. Tne 3278,393.25 is calculated as follows: Budget Item Budget Amount A. Staff: Salary Fringe 1. .1 FTE Director of DHS $ 9,761.75 $ 2.733.29 2. .2 FTE Director of Employment Services 9,737.72 2.726.56 3. .5 FTE Program Coordinator 19,502.89 5.460.81 4. 1.5 Registration 41,463.61 11.609.81 5. 1.75 FTE IRC Skill Development and Assessment Interpretation 48,374.22 13.544.78 Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6. 1. FTE Employer Relations 27,642.41 7,739.87 7. .5 Fiscal (tracking, reporting, and accounting functions) 25,074.63 7.02:0.90 Subtotal $181,557.13 $50,836.02 B. Overhead: (Includes operating, travel, overhead, and all costs assocciated with staff administration) $46,000.00 C. Total $278,393.25 Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.014 Child Care Eliec 9/10/97 6.014.1 Client Eligibility Revised 9/99 Effective October 4, 1999, families whose income does not exceed 185% of poverty level will be eligible for child care under the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. 6.014.2 Child Care Provider Rates Revised 9/99 Effective January 1, 2000, child care provider rates will be as follows: Children under Children over the age of two the age of two Full-Time Part-Time Full-Time Part-Time Licensed Centers $27.25 $15.00 $22.25 $13.00 Licensed Homes 18.25 10.00 16.75 9.25 Exempt/Unlicensed Care 10.00 5.50 8.75 5.00 6.014.3 Registration,Activity and Transportation Added 3/98 The Department pays registration, activity, and transportation fees only to licensed child care facilities. Providers must also charge private-pay families these same fees if they are going to charge the Department of Social Services. 6.014.31 Absences Added 3/98 Abserces are paid to licensed providers only. Payment will be made for three days absence to hold a child's slot when the child is not in care. More than three absences may be approved and paid for verifiable medical reasons provided by the client. Holidays are paid to licensed providers only. The following holidays will be paid as billed by the provider: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Payment will be made for a maximum of 30 days to hold a child's slot when a parent is between eligible activities. This does not include payment when adult students are on summer break. Providers must have prior approval from the child care worker before agreeing to hold a slot. 6.014.32 Registration, Activity, and Transportation Fee Added 3/98 Revised 9/99 The registration, activity, and transportation fees are combined into one daily rate with the child care fee. Registration, activity, and transportation fees are pro-rated daily and combined with the daily provider Child Care rate. An activity fee may not exceed $1.00 per day. A transportation fee may not exceed $2.00 per day. Effective January 1, 2000. The fees will be as follows Prorate daily registration fee: $ .25 Prorate daily activity fee: $ 1.00 Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures Prorate daily transportation fee: $ 2.00 Total daily rate: $ 3.25 6.014.33 20% Rule Added 3/98 Working families enrolled in the Low-Income component of CCAP are not recuired to earn at least 20% more than what the county pays in child care costs when their first six- month redertmination of eligibility is calculated. Effective February 1, 1998. 6.014.34 Immunizations Added 6/99 Families will be required to provide current immunization records within 30 days of the date of application for the Low-Income program and annually with redeterminations. Failure to provide these records would result in denial or termination of benefits. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures 6.027 County Optional Other Assistance Effective 9/10/97 Revised 9/99 6.027.1 Supportive Service Payments Made to Caretaker Relatives on Behalf of Children in their Care(Not an Adoptive or Natural Parent) The Department will provide Colorado Works in Weld County supportive service payments made on behalf of dependent children who are in the custody of relatives, other than aiological or adoptive parents,to the 5th degree of kinship and eligible for ongoing basic cash assistance as outlined in Volume III of the Colorado Department of Human Services public assistance guidelines. Supportive payments are in addition to the standard Basic Cash Assistance payment. 6.027.2 Eligibility Criteria The following eligibility criteria must be met for Colorado Works in Weld County supportive service payments. A. A dependent child is living in the home of a caretaker relative (other than a biological or adoptive parent) when the relative has custody of the child more than 50% of the time in the month in which application is made for supportive service assistance. Living in the home of the caretaker relative will be considered even though: 1. The child is under the jurisdiction of the court. 2. Legal custody is held by an agency or individual that does not have physical custody of the child. 3. The child is in regular attendance at a school away from home. 4. Either the child or the relative is away from the home receiving medial treatment. 5. Either the child or the relative is temporarily absent from the home for less than forty-five (45) calendar days. 6. The child is in voluntary foster care placement for a period not to exceed three(3) months. Should the foster care plan change after the initial three months and the placement becomes court ordered, the child is no longer considered to be living the home as of the time of the foster care plan is changed. 7. The caretaker relative does not receive Colorado Works in Weld County Basic Cash Assistance cash assistance payment. 8. There is an active cash assistance case for the dependent child. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures B. The dependent children meet the age and other basic eligibility criteria as defined in Volume III of the Colorado Department of Human Services regulations to be eligible for and receiving Basic Cash Assistance. C. Resources of'the child may not exceed the State maximum of$2000.00. 6.027.3 Supportive Service Payment Limit The child may be eligible for supportive service payments,not to exceed $3300.00 per child Tier year. The Depai tment will provide payments will only be made on behalf of a child and in order to enhance the child's quality of life and promote stability. Payments will include but not limited to, clothing, school supplies and fees, vision and activity fees. Colorado Works in Weld County and Child Care Policies and Procedures Exhibit J Added 9/99 WELD COUNTY CHILD CARE EXEMPTION Colorado Works applicants and participants who are caring for a child(ren) who is under age six (6) may not be sanctioned if the individual has a demonstrated inability to obtain needed child care due to the lack of 1. Appropriate child care within a reasonable distance from the person's home or work site; or 2. Available or suitable child care by a relative or other individual: or 3. Appropriate and affordable child care arrangements within the rate structure defined in the county child care plan. 3.621.22B If child care is not available, the applicant/participant is exempt from work activities if one or more of the following reasons apply: 1. Affordable child care arrangements are unavailable in Weld County when the cost of available child care exceeds the maximum amount Weld County Department of Social Services deems as appropriate and considers a participant could pay. Appropriate child care would not exist if there was no facility or home available where a child's health and safety could not reasonably be assured, or 2. Informal child care does not exist when a TANF recipient cannot make arrangements for child care with a relative or acquaintance and assure that the child's health and safety would not be in jeopardy, or 3. Child care is not available when it is not within a reasonable distance from work or home to allow the recipient to effectively participate in the Colorado Works in Weld County Program. It must also he demonstrated that a reasonable commuting time and/or alternative transportation is also not available. I have read the above and Do Do not(circle one) wish to request an exemption from the Colorado Works in Weld County program. Verification of good cause reasons will need to be provided and will be reviewed by the eligibility technician. Participant/Applicant Date Technician Hello