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WASHINGTON STATE

BASIC FOOD EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PLAN

Federal Fiscal Year 2014

August 2, 2013

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICESCOMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION

Babs Roberts, Director

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Part I Summary of Washington State Basic FoodEmployment and Training ProgramChanges for FFY 2014.................................................................................... 4

Part II Program Participation and Exemptions .......................................................... 31

Part III Program Coordination (Omitted – no changes)...............................................

Part IV Program Costs and Financial Management.................................................... 35

Part V Program Reporting and Management Information.......................................... 39

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LIST OF TABLES

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Table 1 Estimated Participant Levels........................................................................... 33

Table 2 Estimated Employment and Training Placements........................................... 34

Table 3 Summary of Interagency Coordination for the E&T Program (Omitted – no changes)..........................................................................................................

Table 4 Operating Budget............................................................................................ 37

Table 5 Planned Fiscal Year Costs of the State E&T Programby Category of Funding................................................................................... 38

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SUMMARYWASHINGTON STATE BASIC FOOD EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM

A. Abstract of the Washington State SNAP Employment and Training Program

The Washington State Basic Food Employment and Training (BF E&T) program provides job search, job search training, self directed job search, educational services, skills training, help with development of self-employment microenterprises, post-employment support services, and other employment and self-employment opportunities to Basic Food recipients not participating in the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The BF E&T program is an important part of the state’s comprehensive workforce development system serving the needs of low-income individuals, indigent workers, and employers by encouraging financial independence from public assistance through personal responsibility and gainful employment.

During FFY 2013, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and other public and private agencies operated a 50/50 match project initiative with 18 community-based organizations (CBO) and 34 community and technical colleges based in 18 of the 39 counties in Washington State (Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, Walla Walla, Whatcom, and Yakima Counties). For the first time, DSHS Community Services Division (CSD) operated an interdivisional services provider agreement between the CSD Office of Programs and Policy (BF E&T State Agency) and the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA). ORIA sub-contracted with twelve other agencies across the state to administer BF E&T services (see program narrative under CBO descriptions below).

The project provided employability assessments and a menu of services to eligible participants. These services included:

Assessment

Case management

Job readiness training

Basic skills/ESL training (e.g., literacy, math, vocational ESL, GED preparation)

Vocational training, job search assistance, job placement, and support services (e.g., transportation, child care, housing, clothing, and skill/wage progression)

Washington will continue to provide these services for FFY 2014 and the State projects a 20% increase in college participant capacity and a net increase of three CBOs to the project. The program will be operated consistent with the March 18th 2010 FNS funding requirements guidance and with the interpretation of OMB Circular A-87.

Total program costs are expected to rise by 23 percent during the next fiscal year due to: Caseload growth and demand for employment and training services; The increased number of partner organizations and colleges providing BF E&T

programs and services for the full fiscal year (some current colleges and CBOs started services half way or later in FY 2013);

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The interdivisional services provider agreement between the Office of Programs and Policy and ORIA will sub-contract with twelve other agencies across the state to administer BF E&T services. ORIA has submitted plans to serve approximately 775 participants in FFY 2013. (see program narrative under CBO descriptions below)

The increase in use of transportation and clothing participant reimbursement assistance; and

The increase in use of job retention support services component.

Washington may again request carryover 100% grant money unused by other states if FNS makes these funds available later in the year.

Future service expansion is dependent on the availability of partners with state and local funds to provide as match funding in the affected counties. Community and technical college expansion has reached its limits with all 34 community/technical colleges in the state are now partnering with the department to administer BF E&T services. The Department continues efforts to recruit more CBOs in unserved or underserved parts of the state to provide needed support and “wraparound” services key to participant success.

Summary of changes planned for FFY 2014

There are no policy changes planned for FFY 2014.

ORIA is providing resources to help refugee entrepreneurs establish their own business. They are helping people find microloans like the ones from the U.S. DHHS Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) which provides seed money to start businesses. Some local colleges are working with ORIA to offer classes to help people understand the how to start a business.

Self-employment is being considered an employment outcome under this plan so that ORIA providers can help clients gain employment through this track. It is an optional service and the contractors are expected to screen each request carefully to make sure the participant has a reasonably successful business idea and has proper preparation before the contractor selects this route for BF E&T enrollment.

There are some changes in the list of partner agencies and the services they will be providing. Please see details below.

The State has submitted a plan to hold a second statewide BF E&T program training forum for current college and community partners and will be working with FNS to identify several other states to invite as attendees to share our program success stories. The budget for this conference is included in the education component line of the budget shown in Table 4 below.

Community Based Organizations (CBOs)

The following CBOs will be providing services consistent with the funding requirements described in the March 19th 2010 policy clarification:

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YWCA of Seattle King CountyThe YWCA operates two BF E&T programs that were uniquely developed to serve Basic Food recipients. The primary program is a partnership with community colleges in which community colleges provide education and training, and the YWCA provides case management, job search assistance, and support services provided consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. All services are designed to help increase college attainment and move participants to self sufficiency. The other is a stand-alone program that provides BF E&T participants assessment, job readiness training, job search assistance, career planning and development, job placement, and case management.

The YWCA is again seeking federal E&T matching funds to expand its BankWorks training program introduced last year in the BF E&T mid-year plan amendment to help SNAP recipients interested in a career in the banking industry. Individuals looking to enter the promising field of banking will have more opportunities to receive training that will help them find high-quality careers and help local banks find high-quality tellers. Tellers typically earn $20,000 to $35,000 annually and usually have many opportunities to advance.

Seattle Jobs Initiative (SJI)SJI’s BF E&T program offers participants training through the community college system that leads to credentials in growing local industry sectors. Currently SJI is supporting the following four sectors: Health Care, Business Information Technology, Manufacturing, and Automotive. SJI’s CBO partners provide BF E&T participants wrap around supports including assessment, barrier removal, case management, college navigation, instruction in soft/success skills, resume writing, interview skills, job placement, and retention services. They also receive support services provided consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. SJI also offers a direct placement program for English language learners. This program supports BF E&T participants with instruction in work place culture, job readiness training, resume writing, interview skills, job placement, and retention services. SJI’s BF E&T services are provided exclusively for appropriate Basic Food recipients.

FareStartFareStart is a culinary job training and placement program for homeless men and women, and those at risk of becoming homeless. Its 16 week comprehensive training program includes Culinary training taught through a combination of classroom instruction and hands on training in the FareStart kitchen that produces meals for its restaurant, catering service, and contract meals program that serves shelters and child care centers. (The revenue generated through these enterprises goes directly to support the FareStart job training and placement program.) FareStart provides case management and support services consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. FareStart also provides life skills training, job placement, and services that help participants find and retain jobs and achieve wage progression. FareStart’s BF E&T services are provided exclusively for appropriate Basic Food recipients. Port Jobs

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Port Jobs, through its Airport Jobs center located at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, provides BF E&T participants help getting jobs at the airport, including job search assistance, interview preparation training, job placement, intensive case management, and access to support services provided consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. They also provide free tax preparation and financial coaching. Most of those served by Airport Jobs live in the low income communities surrounding the airport, including White Center. Many are immigrants and refugees. Airport Jobs provides uniquely developed case management services in support of BF E&T participants in job search and related activities.

Seattle Goodwill Industries (SGI)SGI helps disadvantaged people in King County achieve economic independence through programs designed to assist those with significant barriers to employment. SGI plans to provide a job search component, education services, vocational training, and case management services for BF E&T eligible participants. Program offerings include:

Retail Customer Service Job Training Program – includes an integrated job search component as well as on-the-job training

Cashiering/Customer Service class – a less intensive class than the full-time Retail Job Training program without the job search or on-the-job training

English for Speakers of Other Languages classes – from pre-literate to high-intermediate levels

Computer classes – basics (operation/internet/email), MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, online job search, and keyboarding

GED Preparation Community College 101 – a class that helps participants transition to job training

programs in the community college system Job Search – individualized assistance for students in classes other than the

Retail training program Case Management – all students complete an individual employment and

training plan with a Case Manager; support services are provided on an individual basis (help with housing, clothes, health care, vision, transportation, info and referral, etc.)

CARES of WashingtonCARES operates two BF E&T programs that were uniquely developed to serve Basic Food recipients. The primary program is a partnership with community colleges in which community colleges provide education and training, and CARES provides case management, job search assistance, and support services provided consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. All of which is designed to help increase college attainment and move participants to self sufficiency. The other is a stand-alone program that provides BF E&T participants assessment, job readiness training, job search assistance, career planning and development, and job placement.

CARES BF E&T services are provided exclusively for eligible Basic Food recipients provided under their DSHS contract.

The Refugee Federation Service Center (RFSC)The RFSC BF E&T programs were uniquely developed to primarily serve eligible refugee and immigrant participants. The primary program provides BF E&T participants assessment, job readiness training, job search assistance, career planning and development, job placement, case management, and support services. In addition the

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RFSC works in partnership with community colleges in which community colleges provide education and training, and the RFSC provides case management, job search assistance, and support services provided consistent with Washington’s BF E&T Contractor Procedures Manual. All of which is designed to help increase college attainment and move participants to self sufficiency. In addition, the RFSC directly provides some participants vocational training in electronic assembly. The RFSC BF E&T services are provided exclusively for appropriate Basic Food recipients.

Neighborhood House of Washington (NHWA)NHWA is an organization that falls under the King County Employment & Housing Foundations for Work project and provides help to people from numerous countries and cultures with limited resources to attain their goals for self-sufficiency, financial independence, health and community building. NHWA case workers, teachers, volunteers and tutors (many of whom are bilingual) work in neighborhoods across King County providing tutoring, citizenship classes, Head Start and Early Head Start programs, job training, case management, community health programs and transportation to more than 11,000 low-income people each year. NHWA provides a special job search component for BF E&T eligible participants.

Washington Women's Employment & Education (WWEE)WWEE’s REACH Plus™ (Reaching Employability & Achieving Career Habits) program enhances the employability of low-income and welfare dependant individuals through focused job training, including computer skills, work habits and attitudes, financial literacy training, barrier reduction counseling, employment consultation, and wrap around supportive services such as housing and rental assistance. WWEE connects with local employers for job placement opportunities and community colleges for additional training and guided support for clients entering higher education or the trades. WWEE's Employment Services program (ES) is a value added service to participants who exhibit excellent performance in WWEE programs. Designed for graduates to receive concentrated employment services, selected candidates will have one-on-one employment coaching to create a personalized plan for gaining employment. WWEE’s BF E&T services are provided exclusively for appropriate Basic Food recipients.

Northwest Indian College (NWIC)Northwest Indian College is the only Tribal College serving Washington, Idaho and Oregon, and many Alaska Natives. NWIC serves its main campus at the Lummi Reservation in Whatcom County, but also has five fully serviced extension sites in Washington which offer a variety of educational opportunities. NWIC’s BF E&T program will offer participants opportunities throughout its five Washington state sites (Port Gamble S’Klallam, Swinomish, Tulalip, Muckleshoot, and Nisqually) for a variety of comprehensive Workforce Education programs that are linked with employers, both Native and non-Native, to provide employment opportunities, and which include internships, practical experience, and clinical job experience, as well as partnering with local WorkSource organizations and Tribal Employment Rights Organizations (TEROs) to assist with employment. Each Workforce Education program has built-in soft work skills, job readiness training, and during orientation, is also assessed for reading and math skill level. BF E&T training options include but are not limited to: Nursing Assistant, Caregiver, Phlebotomy, Community Health Representative/Child Health Advocate, Office Skills, Medical Reception, Electronic Recordkeeping, Medical Billing and Coding, Marine Technology (Composite boat repair and maintenance, Marine

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propulsion (Diesel, inboard, outboard, gas), Marine Electric/electronics, and Marine Systems (pumps, bilge, head, etc.), Diving (includes harvest diving, debris clean-up, underwater repair (bridges, piers, etc.), potable water, scientific monitoring and data gathering, and underwater welding, Green Construction/energy, weatherization and energy audit, and geothermal assessment, testing and installation. NWIC also provides other training on-demand by industry.

King County Jobs Initiative (KCJI)King County Jobs Initiative provides employment and training services to individuals who are engaged in the criminal justice system but no longer incarcerated. These services are provided through Community Based Organizations under contract with KCJI to provide outreach, recruitment and enrollment, comprehensive case management, job readiness training, enrollment into training, support services, job placement and job retention. Currently 90% of the participants enrolled into KCJI are either on Basic Food (SNAP) or Basic Food eligible. As a relatively new participant of the BF E&T program, KCJI will continue to increase vocational training options for its participants by accessing sector training available at community and technical colleges. While most participants will participate in short term training, (approximately 12 weeks) it is expected that some will use this experience to further their educational goals and pursue an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree using other funding sources.

Puget Sound Training Center (PSTC) Puget Sound Training Center is a private nonprofit, community-based organization that provides social services to low-income individuals living in King County. PSTC currently provides E&T and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) services through a partnership with Refugee Federation Service (RFSC). PSTC services include skills training, employment support and wage progression assistance to underserved individuals including immigrants and refugees as well as formerly incarcerated individuals. Its goal through this work is to eliminate the barriers that prevent low-income individuals from acquiring living wage employment, or that prevent them from moving up the wage progression ladder. As a BF E&T contractor, PSTC will provide to each eligible BF E&T client, assistance in creating an employment plan that outlines the schedule of services. Under the guidance of this plan, PSTC may provide the following services and activities that include, but are not limited to:

Job Search Assistance/Career Coaching & Job Placement Retention Services - PSTC works directly with each client to help them attain the skills they need for better paying jobs or the support they need to find employment, from assistance writing a resume to referrals to other service providers.

Job Search Workshop - PSTC provides a Job Readiness Workshop designed to help participants with their interviewing skills and gain an overall idea of how to conduct an effective search for work.

Computer Basics Workshop - PSTC provides Basic computer and Internet Introduction Workshop to train participants in online job searching tools and techniques for finding employment using this method.

Job Skills Training – This component provides a three-year forklift certification training which is geared towards individuals that are currently employed in entry-level warehouse positions such as packaging or unemployed and that are in need of advanced skills certification in order to qualify for a living wage job in the warehouse industry.

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Pierce County Community Connections (PCCC) PCCC’s Home and Family Division’s mission is to “create opportunities for economically disadvantaged families and to reduce the impact of poverty”. It primarily serves low-income Pierce County families located outside the city limits of Tacoma. The Pierce County Community Action Resource for Education and Employment Readiness (CAREER) Program was designed to assist in the removal of barriers to self-sufficiency for low-income residents. Its aim is to assure that needy families obtain the education, training, employment and support services that are necessary to help avoid long-term public assistance dependency. The program is part of a consortium that provides Community Jobs, Career Jump, and Work Experience through the Department of Commerce. PCCC plans to offer case management and a staffed resource room with 18 computers for clients, CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems) testing and GED preparation tutorials, resume’ and master application development, job search and interview techniques, and support services. Also, if clients are eligible they will be connected to the other programs that PCCC Home and Family Division has to offer.

Office of Refugee & Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) ORIA, in Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services’ Community Services Division (CSD), provides a mix of services that help limited English proficient (LEP) refugees and immigrants successfully integrate into their new communities. LEP immigrants and refugees, who receive public assistance, including food assistance, are eligible for employment and self-employment services through its contractors, including English as a Second Language (ESL) training, and Naturalization Services. ORIA BF E&T services will include:

Job search assistance; English as a Second Language; Job Skills Training; Employment placement; Microenterprise development assistance; and Job retention services.

Services are provided through contracts with government agencies, Voluntary Refugee Resettlement Agencies (VOLAGs), local community colleges, and community based organizations involved in the resettlement of refugees and immigrants in Washington State. Most service providers have close ties to ethnic communities and many employ individuals who were former refugees. Services are provided in an individual’s primary language and in culturally appropriate ways.

Tacoma Goodwill Industries (TGI) Tacoma Goodwill operates four different job skills training programs: Custodial Skills, Computer Skills, Retail Skills and Culinary Skills. Most training programs are relatively short term but the time allotted varies by program and participant abilities and program costs vary. Additionally, in each program, except Retail Skills, TGI offers help with costs for books, uniforms, and in Culinary Skills ancillary training costs (“ServeSafe” certification and Food Handlers Cards). Local funding for TGI training programs funds are partially derived from the agency’s fundraising efforts.

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Opportunity Council (OppCo) The Opportunity Council is a private, non-profit Community Action Agency serving homeless and low-income families and individuals. Its goal is to help people learn to become self-sufficient. They offer a broad scope of services that range from addressing immediate and crisis-oriented needs (food, emergency shelter, and eviction prevention) to longer-term programs that promote self-sufficiency in the community.

OppCo offers a two-part BF E&T program. The first program would be a partnership with Whatcom Community College and Bellingham Technical College. Participants would be co-enrolled receiving education and training from the community and technical college, while OppCo would provide case management, job search and job readiness activities, support services, job retention services and referrals to other programs and services.

The second part is a stand-alone program that provides assessment, job readiness and job search activities, support services, career planning, job retention, case management and referrals to other programs and services. Potential participants in the stand-alone program are identified by agency homeless housing case managers, agency Basic Food outreach workers, agency early learning and family resource program staff, and DSHS CSO staff.

OppCo is currently serving a significant number of households that are potentially eligibly for Basic Food. As a Basic Food Outreach sub-contractor, it conducts community outreach to promote the program through in person and media outreach efforts. The agency assists clients with completing paper and electronic applications for Basic Food by integrating Basic Food Outreach in agency programs such as the Community Resource Center, Energy Assistance, Homeless Housing, Maple Alley Inn and Head Start recruiting.

Apprenticeship & Non-Traditional Employment for Women (ANEW)ANEW is among the oldest non-profits offering a pre-apprenticeship for women in the nation. ANEW prepares women and men for apprentice-able and/or livable wage careers in construction, utilities, aerospace and manufacturing, and supports their retention and advancement in non-traditional pathways. One of ANEW’s cornerstone programs is the Apprenticeship Opportunities Project (AOP). AOP is operated by ANEW with geographically restricted funding from the Office of Port Jobs | Port of Seattle.

Created in 1994, AOP serves King County residents ages 18 and older who are low-income, unemployed individuals or under-employed apprentices. AOP provides comprehensive employment and training services particularly to women, people of color, and veterans seeking access to construction trades apprenticeship and trades-related employment.

ANEW provides the following AOP employment and training activities and/or related support services to BF E&T-eligible clients:

Outreach and Recruitment to eligible candidates, particularly women, veterans and people of color, with initial intake and aptitude/career interest assessments, orientations, career fairs, presentations at apprenticeships and community based organizations;

Case management, including crisis support or referrals, career counseling,

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review of eligibility for services, and routine/special personal appointments or group meetings ;

Job Search, including personal interviews and meetings, and weekly Job Club activities, programs of study review, resume and interview preparation, mock interviews with apprenticeship partners;

Job Retention services, including workshops, mediation assistance with programs or contractors, career advancement support and planning, and Job Club.

These core services reach the greatest number of AOP clients, and give multiple points to reevaluate client budgets, ensure clients are enrolled in BF E&T, and steer a person towards a job.

YWCA of SpokaneThe YWCA provides services through the Women’s Opportunity Center. Commenced in 2006, the mission of the Women’s Opportunity Center is to empower Spokane’s unemployed and underemployed women to increase their earning potential and achieve financial independence. The Women’s Opportunity Center offers Job Readiness and Career Advocacy, a fully staffed computer lab, and Our Sister’s Closet—Spokane’s only free, professional clothing bank for women.

YWCA will provide BF E&T-eligible recipients with job search including resume writing, interviewing techniques, assessment, case management, barrier removal, job placement, and retention services provided by our Women’s Opportunity Center. The Opportunity Center helps unemployed individuals: “Get the job. Keep the job. Build a career.” The program is designed with four areas of focus with classes and one-on-one advising available under various topics.

The Opportunity Center has an existing relationship with Community Colleges of Spokane. This relationship is strengthened by the BF E&T program because the relationships have transitioned from providing general service referrals to linking clients with specific vocational and educational opportunities and provides follow-up through individualized case management services.

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest (GWIIN) - NEW!Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest is one of the leading Community Based Organizations providing comprehensive Community Employment Services in the greater Spokane area. GWIIN’s mission is to “Help people build independence within the communities it serves”. Goodwill Industries has a long standing reputation for professional employment assessment, job placement, and job retention services. It specializes in providing these services to the community through contracts with DSHS, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Division of Developmental Disabilities.

GWIIN offers employment services and various types of individual support services such as housing, transportation and basic needs. It has been given a City of Spokane Human Services grant to provide employment services to the homeless population in Spokane (Moving Forward) and is engaged in a DOJ-OJJDP grant program to mentor at- risk youth in two local elementary schools (MAPS).

The variety of programs at Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest provides an

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expansive breadth of employment and supportive services to diverse populations, and provides it with a well-established client group that could readily engage in, and benefit from BF E&T. For BF E&T, it plans to focus on the components of Job Search, and 90-Day Job Retention. These are already areas of strength for Goodwill Industries and BF E&T funding will strengthen and enhance its capacity to serve the Spokane area.

TRAC Associates - NEW!TRAC (training-rehabilitation-assessment-consultation) Associates has been a leader in offering employment services for job seekers and employers in Washington since 1983. The agency assists job seekers in meeting the changing needs of employers and the labor market. TRAC Associates matches employers to job seekers by providing the following services: recruitment, applicant screening and testing, job readiness competencies, vocational training, job retention, career advancement and outplacement. TRAC Associates staff is both multilingual and multicultural speaking over 20 different languages. The services they provide to new employees and employers alike ensure smooth transitions into successful careers.

TRAC will provide BFE&T case management services to eligible King County homeless individuals. This includes providing assistance in securing stable housing and development and monitoring of short term training, job search assistance to partiicpants that require direct placement assistance or those that have completed training and 90 day retention services . TRAC plans to also provide support services for transportation assistance, necessary work related clothing and required licensing.

Multi-Service Center (MSC) - NEW!Multi-Service Center helps to strengthen communities throughout South King County by addressing causes and barriers of poverty and homelessness. They use holistic services that help to lift people from crisis and vulnerability to self-sufficiency and stability.

MSC will use individually-tailored support and resources to provide employment services to eligible SNAP recipients in its service area.

Community and Technical Colleges

The BF E&T program role for the participating Washington Community & Technical Colleges is to meet the urgent need to educate more low income participants to higher levels of skill and knowledge to help this population transition to self-sufficiency.

Through a contract with the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), all 34 colleges under the SBCTC administrative control will be providing BF E&T services statewide in FFY 2014. BF E&T services provided are limited to those that are necessary and reasonable for students to participate and fulfill the intent of the BF E&T program and are above and beyond services typically provided to the general student population at no cost. The services designed to help students attain skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency include case management, job search and job readiness training, vocational education, Adult Basic Education (ABE), English As A Second Language (ESL), General Education Development (GED), and participant support services.

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Colleges providing BF E&T services include:

Bates Technical CollegeBellevue CollegeBellingham Technical CollegeBig Bend Community CollegeCascadia Community CollegeCentralia CollegeClark CollegeClover Park Technical CollegeColumbia Basin CollegeEdmonds Community CollegeEverett Community CollegeGrays Harbor Community CollegeGreen River Community CollegeHighline Community CollegeLake Washington CCLower Columbia CollegeNorth Seattle Community College

Olympic CollegePeninsula CollegePierce Community CollegeRenton Technical CollegeSeattle Central Community College/Seattle Vocational InstituteShoreline Community CollegeSkagit Valley Community CollegeSouth Seattle Community CollegeSouth Puget Sound CCSpokane Community CollegeSpokane Falls Community CollegeTacoma Community CollegeWalla Walla Community CollegeWenatchee Valley CollegeWhatcom Community CollegeYakima Valley CC

The FFY 2014 program application and review process was performed during the spring of 2013. The existing billing process and planned college monitoring visits, conducted by SBCTC administrative staff, ensure adherence to policy. The SBCTC takes an active role in facilitating program planning and the future growth of the BF E&T program. SBCTC is involved in and supportive of developing and presenting an annual BF E&T statewide training forum. They additionally provide program overview and clarification of policy to the colleges providing BF E&T services.

ABAWD Waiver Updates

On April 30, 2013, Washington State requested a statewide waiver of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) requirements for Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) under 7CFR 273.24. Washington State’s current ABAWD waiver is set to expire on September 30, 2013.

Under SNAP regulations at 7 CFR 273.24(f)(2), a State can qualify for a 12-month statewide ABAWD waiver if the Department of Labor (DOL)'s Unemployment Insurance Service determines it meets the criteria for extended unemployment benefits as evidence of insufficient jobs. The Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-449), which was signed into law on November 21, 2008, introduced new criteria used by DOL for the extended benefits (EB) program. As a result, some States qualify for extended benefits based on the criteria of the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program, rather than the traditional EB criteria. States may be eligible for statewide waivers if the state is listed on the DOL Extended Benefits Trigger Notice as being “ON” extended benefits, regardless of whether the State qualified based on the traditional EB criteria or the revised EUC criteria. To qualify for the second tier of benefits under the new criteria states must have a three-month total unemployment rate (TUR) of 6 percent or more.

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The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) EC Trigger Notice 2013-13, effective April 14, 2013, shows the State’s 3-month average TUR was 7.5 percent, making Washington eligible for at least the second tier of unemployment benefits.

Washington is awaiting the final decision by the USDA FNS national office on its waiver request. As Washington does not intend to impose specific work requirements on ABAWDs during the coming program year (10/2013 – 9/2014), we are not including specific geographic, 15% waiver information and will not provide for a workfare component in the BF E&T state plan for FFY 2014.

Expansion of Local Match Initiative (50/50 Match Provision):

Washington will continue to cultivate and grow local partnership initiatives throughout the state to leverage BF E&T 50/50 federal matching funds. For FFY 2014 the partnership will expand services by increasing student capacity at educational institutions and adding a number of CBOs to the current partnership with the Department of Social and Health Services. The partnership will provide additional program services throughout the state to recipients who volunteer to participate with partner agencies.

The BF E&T partnership with Northwest Indian College (NWIC), a tribal-chartered college, plans to continue services to its campus extension sites located on several tribe reservations in western Washington. NWIC will again request reimbursement for qualifying services and administrative costs at a rate of 75 percent per 7 CFR 281.9.

The services provided in the BF E&T 50/50 project and the expansion sites for FFY 2014 include:

Assessment

Case management

Job readiness training

Basic skills/ESL training (e.g., literacy, math, vocational ESL, GED preparation)

Vocational training

Job search assistance

Job placement

Job retention

Support services (e.g., transportation, child care, housing, and clothing)

Skill and Wage Progression

The costs for federal matching funds will consist of charges reported on a cash or accrual basis by DSHS as “project costs.” The project costs will be financed with cash contributed or donated to the 50/50 match partnership by other nonfederal public agencies and institutions. Cash contributions, which may be given by any person, company or organization, will be used to draw down federal matching BF E&T funds.

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All funds received from counties, cities, and other sources of public funds are public funds when they are received by the non-profit organizations. However these funds become private funds once expended. In order for private funds to be used as the match for the 50/50 match project, the contracts with the 50/50 match partnership must certify the total amount of local funds expended on the 50/50 match project activities before reimbursement. Funding certification is obtained using an approved DSHS form. The funds used as match for this program cannot be used as match for another federal program and must be:

1) Non-federal funds unless specifically allowable under federal law,

2) Necessary and reasonable to accomplish the program goals,

3) Under the Contractor’s complete control, without restriction requiring use for other purposes, and

4) Comply with regulations contained in 7 CFR 277 and all applicable federal laws.

DSHS anticipates that the 50/50 match project initiatives will allow other Local Planning Areas (LPA) to identify local partners interested in donating their time, money, or resources. DSHS supports the initiative to identify alternative sources of funding that are working toward the goals of assisting Basic Food recipients in obtaining employment, participating in work programs or education and training activities and helping them achieve long-term self-sufficiency. The state of Washington continues to retain the flexibility to expand and implement the 50/50 match project initiative statewide.

BF E&T Evaluation PlanOverview:Washington’s BF E&T program provides a wide range of services designed to help participants enhance their employability skills and find employment. The services are provided through the BF E&T partnerships, and program data is tracked using the Electronic Jobs Automated System or “eJAS.”

EJAS tracks participation by service component code with starting and ending dates. The partners who provide the services are also identified in eJAS using distinct contractor codes, allowing the program to track multiple services by different partners. The system is able to track participation by participant, by contractor and by service component. Historical data for the program from eJAS is stored in the DSHS data warehouse.

Washington began evaluating the BF E&T program outcomes in October 2008 using a two-step data match process to ensure an “apples to apples” comparison between service providers. In addition, DSHS began a process to utilize the evaluation data outcomes to establish performance benchmarks for individual partners.

Targets for the performance measures will be developed for each contractor and included in their contracts in FFY 2014 as they are every year. Performance will be monitored by DSHS for each contractor using the information obtained through the on-going evaluation process.

DSHS will report the following performance measurements: Entered employment;

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Median wage;

Long term employment (job retention);

Employment after participation in specific components.

Data Match Processes and Cohort Definition:

Entered Employments/Median Wage Data MatchThe first data match was designed to capture employment outcomes from all service providers. A participant cohort is identified in each quarter, comprised of all the BF E&T clients who began participation during that quarter. Each quarter’s cohort is tracked as a whole for four quarters after the starting quarter to measure employment and performance over time.

The participant cohort for the entered employment data match is identified through the eJAS system by the start date of the service component code. The cohort is defined as those participants starting a BF E&T activity within a given quarter, following the federal fiscal year. For example, if someone starts participating on November 1, 2012, he or she will become part of the first federal fiscal quarter cohort.

Each quarterly cohort will be followed for four quarters and matched with Washington’s Employment Security Department’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) wage file. If a participant in the cohort is employed on the UI file, he or she will be tallied and sorted by service component. The results of the data match will be provided in a report on a quarterly basis along with the cohort’s employment median wage. The department will use the information on an on-going basis to measure our contractors’ performance.

Job Retention Data Match

The second data match is designed to look for employment outcomes over a longer period of time. All participants, including those who participated in short-term programs are matched to look for long term employment outcomes, or job retention.

A completely different and distinct participant cohort is identified using the eJAS system for the second data match. The cohort is designed to track participants that leave or complete participation in activities during the federal fiscal year and do not return or continue to participate in the BF E&T program during the following federal fiscal year. For example, if a student completes a vocational training program on December 30, 2011, he or she will become part of the federal fiscal year 2012 cohort with all other completers for that year. If the student does not return or participate with BF E&T in federal fiscal year 2012, the FFY 12 cohort will be matched with the UI file to check for employment. Participants in the cohort, who are employed on the UI file, are tallied and sorted by service component and with the cohort’s median wage in an annual report. This data provides information on participants employed a year after completing participation.

Outcome Reporting:

The evaluation plan reports are provided to FNS quarterly and annually. Reports

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provided to FNS contain the following information:

Entered employments – Number (or percentage) of participants who enter employment during or after participation with the BF E&T program.

Average wage – Average median wage of participants employed during or after participation with the BF E&T program.

Number of participants employed a year after leaving the BF E&T program.

Number of participants employed 2 years after beginning participation in the BF E&T Program.

Breakdown of employments by service component.

Current Status:

We continue to provide quarterly reports to FNS WRO using the evaluation plan data match and implemented data share agreements with Employment Security Department and the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. The available evaluation data continues to reflect strong program outcomes.

1. ABAWD Population

For FFY 2014, the estimated number of ABAWD work registrants is 97,956

As stated above, if Washington’s waiver request is approved, the State intends to extend its ABAWD waiver until September 30, 2014.

As Washington will not be imposing specific work requirements on ABAWDs during this period, we are not including specific geographic, 15% waiver information and will not provide for a workfare component in the BF E&T state plan for FFY 2014.

ABAWD SNAP recipients are given an opportunity to voluntarily participate in the BF E&T in all areas of the state where services are offered.

2. Non-ABAWD PopulationFor FFY 2014, the estimated number of non-ABAWD work registrants is 110,461.

Non-ABAWDs are also given an opportunity to voluntarily participate in the BF E&T in all areas of the state where services are offered.

3. Program ComponentsThe components of the state’s BF E&T program are delivered through the 50/50 match partnership.

The following components will be provided to ABAWD and non-ABAWDs participants on a voluntary basis:

Job Search

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PART I

Education Services include but not limited to:

English as a Second Language,

Adult Basic Education,

High School Equivalency Certificate,

Job Readiness Training, and

Vocational Training.

Unsubsidized Employment

Job Retention Services

Other Activities

B. Program Components Job Search:Job Search is a non-work component that provides a package of structured activities to help participants to seek and obtain suitable employment. Services include, but are not limited to, labor market information, job seeking skills instruction, resume writing, job skills assessment, counseling, life skills and work ethic training and job placement services.

Type of component: Non-work.

Geographical area covered:

Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, Walla Walla, Whatcom, and Yakima Counties the 50/50 match partnership contractors will provide job search services.

E&T participants to be served: 12,913 Anticipated number of ABAWDs who will begin the component: 6,069

Anticipated number of non-ABAWD participants who will begin the component: 6,844

Level of Participant effort, or number of hours of participation in the component and duration:

Participants may engage in a variety of job search activities. This may include up to 15 job search contacts. Participants who live in areas that do not support multiple job search contacts may engage in other job search related activities. These include resume writing and assistance with interviewing skills.

Targeted Population: ABAWDs and non-ABAWDs in all areas of the state served by BF E&T partners.

Organizational responsibilities:

The Community Services Division within the Department of Social and Health Services will contract service delivery with 50/50 match partnership. The contractor will be required to set up the method for documenting the job

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PART I

contacts.

Number of participants expected to receive a participant reimbursement: 3,702

Participant Reimbursemento Transportation

(Based on $150 per participant for 3 months): $ 223,727Approximately 355 participantsFederal Match Money $112,989State Match Money $110,738

o Other: Clothing, personal expenses ($300 limit): $ 49,500 Approximately 83 participants

Federal Match Money $25,125State Match Money $24,375

o Dependent Care (estimated $700 per household per month): $ 10,500

Approximately 12 participants Federal Match Money $5,600State Match Money $4,900

o Other: $ 150,896Includes support services costs that do not fall under transportation, dependent care, or clothing but are required in order to participate and are authorized on an as-needed basis. Typical support services include tools needed for training, uniforms or protective clothing needed for training, testing fees and housing stabilization costs.*

* After all other resources have been exhausted; housing stabilization assistance may be given to include rental assistance when housing stability is reasonable and directly related to helping BF E&T participants prepare for self-sufficiency through training or other approved BF E&T activity.


Other Component Costso Basic Services: $6,387,463DSHS Staffing levels and projected Local Planning Area (LPA) partner costs Federal 100%Money $620,150Federal Match Money $2,892,071State Match Money $2,875,242

o Basic Service cost per participant: $495.00Includes Basic Services excludes participant reimbursement costs.

Total cost of the component: $ 6,822,086

Calculation Changes Reminder for FFY 2014:

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PART I

Federal Match reimbursement for some support services is higher than 50% federal/50% state because of a partner eligible for tribal federal match at the higher 75% federal/ 25% state rate.

Education Services:Persons are placed in this component when they are found to have education or training needs and decide that they need to pursue these educational services. Education or training needs are when a client has not obtained a high school diploma, GED or attained a level 2B in English literacy Educational partners of the 50/50 match partnership will explore offering some courses via on-line education to encourage participation. The educational partners will provide alternative courses to those participants not having access to technology.

Educational services include, but are not limited to:

Preparation for obtaining a GED.

Completing adult basic education.

Completing a high school diploma.

Attaining a 2B English literacy level.

The program shall directly pay GED test costs and other educational costs not otherwise available on a non-reimbursable basis, and costs not available through other financial aid resources shall be paid directly by the program. These payments will be made up to an average of $50.00 per participant. This program will not replace state education responsibilities. Examples of services to be provided under this component include:

1. English as a Second Language

2. Adult Basic Education

3. General Equivalency Diploma

Type of component: Non-work

Geographical area covered: Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, Walla Walla, Whatcom, and Yakima Counties

E&T participants to be served: 4,199

Targeted Population:

Clients with identified barriers that preclude looking for work.

Anticipated number of ABAWDs who will begin the component: 1,974


Level of participant effort: As specified by the educational entity.

Duration: Up to six months for basic education.

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PART I

Organization responsible to administer:The Community Services Division of DSHS - DSHS staff will refer, monitor progress, and reimburse client expenses for ABAWD and non-ABAWD clients receiving GED, ABE, HS, ESL, and vocational training from educational institutions.


Participant Reimbursemento Transportation

(Based on $150 per participant for 3 months): $ 129,994 Approximately 204 participants


o Other: Clothing, personal expenses ($300 limit): $ 5,090 Approximately 23 participants


o Dependent Care ( estimated $700 per household per month for 2 months): $ 1,900

Approximately 1 participant Federal Match Money $1,300State Match Money $600

o Other: $ 352,588Includes support services costs that do not fall under transportation, dependent care, or clothing but are required in order to participate and are authorized on an as-needed basis. Typical support services include tools needed for training, uniforms or protective clothing needed for training, testing fees and housing stabilization costs.


Other Component Costso Basic Services: $ 3,406,797DSHS Staffing levels and projected Local Planning Area (LPA) partner costs Federal 100%Money $210,725Federal Match Money $1,614,304State Match Money $1,581,768

o Basic Service cost per participant: $1,223.00Includes Basic Services excludes participant reimbursement costs.

Total cost of the component: $ 3,896,370Includes Participant Reimbursement and Other Component Costs

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PART I

(Refer to Table 4)

Calculation Changes Reminder for FFY 2014: Federal Match reimbursement for some support services is higher than 50% federal/50% state because of a partner eligible for tribal federal match at the higher 75% federal/ 25% state rate.

Vocational Training:A non-work component that includes occupational assessment, remedial and entry-level job skills training, customized training, institutional skills training, and upgrade training.

Persons are placed in this component when they are found to have education or training needs that are necessary to enhance their employability or as part of a job placement program that requires industry specific training. In Washington, livable wage jobs require a skilled workforce. State and national research, such as Washington’s State Board for Community and Technical Colleges’ “Tipping Point Research,” shows that it takes at least one year of postsecondary education and a credential for low-skill adults to obtain livable wage jobs.

The BF E&T program is focused on filling the skills gap between low-skill adults and livable wage jobs. The preliminary evaluations data indicates that BF E&T 50/50 match project participants have a median hourly wage of $11.08 compared to the state’s minimum wage of $9.19 per hour. Washington believes that there is compelling evidence at the state and national level to support a partnership with the community college system to maximize the likelihood of livable wage employment for low-skilled adults.

In order to meet the projected demand for skilled labor and assist Basic Food recipients achieve self-sufficiency, Washington State has partnered with the community college system to provide vocational training education as part of its BF E&T strategy in Clallam, Clark, Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, and Whatcom Counties. Washington is confident that this is an effective use of BF E&T funds, half of which are provided by the colleges as part of the 50/50 match initiative.

Educational partners of 50/50 match project will explore offering some courses via on-line education to encourage participation. The educational partners will provide alternative courses to those participants not having access to technology.


Geographical area covered: Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, Walla Walla, Whatcom, and Yakima CountiesThe 50/50 match partnership is contracted to make Vocational Training referrals and provide support services.


Targeted Population:

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PART I

Clients identified with vocational training needs necessary to enhance their chances for employability or needed for job placement purposes.

Anticipated number of ABAWDs who will begin the component: 5,397


Level of participant effort:Participant efforts are specified by the educational institution.

Duration:

Primarily up to 12 months for vocational training but exceptions possible for programs with prerequisite completion requirements.

Organization responsible to administer:The Community Services Division of DSHS will administer BF E&T. DSHS staff will refer, monitor progress, and reimburse client expenses for ABAWD and non-ABAWD clients receiving vocational training from educational institutions.


Participant Reimbursemento Transportation(Based on $150 per participant for 3 months): $ 552,210Approximately 929 participantsFederal Match Money $278,918State Match Money $273,292

Other: Clothing, personal expenses ($300 limit): $ 80,256 Approximately 221 participants




o Other: $3,209,008Includes support services costs that do not fall under transportation, dependent care, or clothing but are required in order to participate and are authorized on an as-needed basis. Typical support services include books, tools needed for training, uniforms or protective clothing needed for training, testing fees and housing stabilization costs.

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PART I

Federal Match Money $1,607,754State Match Money $1,601,254

Other Component Costso Basic Services: $13,944,706DSHS Staffing levels and projected Local Planning Area (LPA) partner costsFederal 100%Money $845,997Federal Match Money $6,577,403State Match Money $6,521,306

o Basic Service cost per participant: $1,250.00Includes Basic Services excludes participant reimbursement costs.

Total cost of the component: $17,793,580Includes Participant Reimbursement and Other Component Costs (Refer to Table 4)

Calculation Changes Reminder for FFY 2014: Federal Match reimbursement for some support services is higher than 50% federal/50% state because of a partner eligible for tribal federal match at the higher 75% federal/ 25% state rate.

Job Retention:Washington State made this post-employment support service available to eligible participants beginning October 2011. The Department will monitor requests for reimbursement of job retention services to make sure they are reasonable and necessary, are provided to individuals who have secured employment, help individuals achieve satisfactory performance, keep the job, and to increase earnings over time.

DSHS is using the recently published FNS 2011 E&T Toolkit as guidance and will allow job retention services that may include:

Clothing required for the job; Equipment or tools required for a job; Relocation expenses; Transportation expenses; Child care; Post employment counseling, coaching and other case management activities.


Geographical area covered: King, Kitsap, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Spokane, Thurston, and Whatcom Counties

The 50/50 match partnership is contracted to make referrals Vocational Training referrals and provide support services.

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PART I


Targeted Population: Job retention services:

o Will be provided for a maximum of 90 days post employment;o May extend to households leaving Basic Food up to the 90 day limit; ando Will only be offered to individuals who have received other

employment/training services under BF E&T.

Anticipated number of ABAWDs who will begin the component: 702

Anticipated number of non-ABAWD participants who will begin the component: 792

Level of participant effort:Must maintain employment and meet other requirements as specified by the partner agency or institution.

Duration:

Provided up 90 days post employment or up to 90 days after leaving Basic Food, whichever is sooner as long as individual continues to be employed.

Organization responsible to administer:The Community Services Division of DSHS will administer BF E&T. DSHS staff will refer, monitor progress, and reimburse client expenses for clients employed after receiving other employment/training services under BF E&T.


Participant Reimbursemento Transportation(Based on $150 per participant for 3 months): $ 71,710Approximately 51 participantsFederal Match Money $36,305State Match Money $35,405

Other: Clothing, personal expenses ($300 limit): $ 9.700 Approximately 13 participants




o Other: $47,281

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PART I

Includes support services costs that do not fall under transportation, dependent care, or clothing but are required in order to stay employed and are authorized on an as-needed basis. Typical support services include tools needed for training/employment, uniforms or protective clothing needed for training/employment, testing fees and housing stabilization costs.


Other Component Costso Basic Services: $240,395DSHS Staffing levels and projected Local Planning Area (LPA) partner costsFederal 100%Money $240,395Federal Match Money $0State Match Money $0

o Basic Service cost per participant: $227.00Includes Basic Services excludes participant reimbursement costs.

Total cost of the component: $371,886Includes Participant Reimbursement and Other Component Costs (Refer to Table 4)

Calculation Reminder for FFY 2014: Federal Match reimbursement for some support services is higher than 50% federal/50% state because of a partner eligible for tribal federal match at the higher 75% federal/ 25% state rate.

Unsubsidized Employment:For many individuals the best way to develop work skills and work habits is by actually working. This component is designed to assist participants to enter the labor market by providing work placements that help the individual gain experience and develop good work habits. Some placements may be temporary and may not provide full-time hours or a livable wage but, by allowing these individuals to continue to pursue education and training activities it will increase the likelihood that they will find better paid employment and wage progression that will achieve self sufficiency.

Full or part time employment wages will be paid in full by an employer. Post-employment, career counseling and career enhancement services may be provided to all individuals who have obtained employment regardless of the number of hours per week they are employed. BF E&T funds are not used to pay the wages of mandatory work registrants enrolled in unsubsidized employment.

Unsubsidized employment services may include but are not limited to, apprenticeships, and practicum.

Other Activities:

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PART I

In order to best meet recipient and social services needs and promote creative program design, BF E&T program providers are given authority to establish additional activities to those already specified in this plan. Such programs shall be described in contracts and agreements and shall conform with the federal requirement that they be designed to move individuals to self-sufficiency. Contracts specifying such alternative activities will be available for USDA. Washington will report such activity information as required. The language in Washington State’s plan is designed to promote flexibility and explore the possibility that a wider variety of BF E&T services will be expanded statewide in the future.

Support Services (Participant Reimbursement):Support Service reimbursements are addressed on a case-by-case basis to make sure they are reasonable, necessary, and directly related to participation in BF E&T. Support Services are given based on individual circumstances and in accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(d)(1)(iv). Washington provides transportation and other support services that are reasonable, necessary, and directly related to participation in BF E&T for ABAWDs and non-ABAWDs. Support services include, but are not limited to the following:

Transportation;

Dependent care;

Clothing allowance (for participants who need to purchase appropriate clothing for job search and job interviews);

Uniforms;

Personal safety items *;

Books or training manuals;

Test/educational costs;

Housing **; and

Other equipment deemed necessary for participation in BF E&T.

* Cost of personal safety items are reimbursed if needed for training and most commonly include items like safety goggles, gloves, hard hats, or safety shoes/boots.

**After all other resources have been exhausted; housing stabilization assistance may be given to include rental assistance when housing stability is reasonable and directly related to helping BF E&T participants prepare for self-sufficiency through training or other approved BF E&T activity.

Test costs, and other educational costs not otherwise available on a non-reimbursable basis or costs not available through other financial aid resources shall be paid directly by the program.

For FFY 2014, the transportation maximum will again be $150 per participant per month. The clothing allowance will be $300 per participant per program year (Oct-Sep) as it has been for the past two years.

Post Employment Services:

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PART I

Washington proposes to provide post-employment services to Basic Food recipients who are employed. These services will include:

Skill and wage progression;

Career advancement;

Re-employment services; and

Referrals to other support services that are reasonably necessary and directly related to participation in BF E&T program components.

Federal law, 7 U.S.C. 2015 (d)(4)(H), allows states to operate any BF E&T program component for individuals who want to voluntarily participate. Federal regulations at 7 CFR 273.7 (e)(4) also indicate that states may operate BF E&T program components in which individuals voluntarily elect to participate. The law, U.S.C. 2015 (d)(4)(I), and federal regulation, 7 CFR 273.7(d)(3), further indicate that the state must provide support service payments to participants in BF E&T for expenses that are reasonably necessary and directly related to participation in SNAP E&T.

In accordance with these provisions, the state of Washington will continue to allow individuals who are employed to voluntarily participate to receive BF E&T services.

Basic Food recipients may volunteer to receive post-employment services through participation in a BF E&T component, which may include:

Job Search: individuals may volunteer to participate in activities that will increase their employability and assist them in obtaining better jobs to progress up a career ladder. This includes job skills assessments, job finding clubs, training in techniques for employability, and educational programs to expand their job search abilities or employability.

Education: Individuals may volunteer to participate in programs or activities to improve basic skills or improve employability, which include a direct link between the education and job-readiness of the individual.

Training: individuals may volunteer to participate in post-employment training services, which will increase their skills.

Post-employment services will be monitored, and ongoing will be established with the individual receiving post-employment services at least monthly.

In addition, Washington State plans to again offer Retention Services as authorized by the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act (FCEA) of 2008 PL. 110-234. The FCEA allows states to issue post employment support services, also known as job retention services. Effective October 1, 2011, Washington State made this support service available and allows reimbursement to those partners that wish to implement the job retention services option. Job retention services:

Will be provided for a maximum of 90 days post employment; May extend to households leaving Basic Food up to the 90 day limit; and Will only be offered to individuals who have received other employment/training

services under BF E&T.

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PART I

The Department will monitor requests for reimbursement of job retention services to make sure they are reasonable and necessary, are provided to individuals who have secured employment, help individuals achieve satisfactory performance, keep the job, and to increase earnings over time.

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PART II

PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AND EXEMPTIONS

A. Work Registrant Population

1. Number of Work Registrants Statewide

a. It is estimated that there will be approximately 208,418 work registrants statewide as of October 31, 2013.

b. An estimated 6,808 work registrants will be added between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014.

c. The total work registrants in the state between October 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014, will be approximately: 215,226.

2. Unduplicated Work Registrant Count

Work registrants were taken from actual unduplicated statewide counts as of October 1, 2012 and estimated from October 2013 through September 2014 based on previous year’s growth tracked from October 2012 to June 2013.

B. Exemption Criteria

Washington State’s Automated Client Eligibility System (ACES) tracks the number of exemptions per month.

1. Categorical Exemptions

ABAWDs are currently exempt thru September 30, 2013 from Basic Food work requirements in the state. ABAWDs may volunteer for BFE&T services in all areas of the state that offer BFE&T services. See information about pending ABAWD waiver request in #5 below.

For FFY 2014, the department is exempting all households from mandatory participation in E&T activities. Washington’s E&T program is an all-volunteer program. All Basic Food recipients, even those that are mandatory work registrants, are considered exempt from E&T participation.

2. Individual or Personal Exemptions

The Department of Social and Health Services will grant three types of individual or personal work registration exemptions for non-ABAWD clients:

a. Persons without transportation when public transportation is not available, or where travel distance presents a hardship to participation at the service delivery agency.

b. Persons with a temporary disability (expected to last more than 60 days).

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PART II

c. Persons with children between age 6-12 without access to adequate childcare.

Individual exemptions will be reviewed as warranted, but at least every 180 days.

The department will exempt from mandatory registration those clients who have good cause, when that good cause will preclude registration for over 60 days.

Exemptions from Work registration for 16 and 17 year olds will be granted to non-ABAWD clients completing educational components, such as GED, ESL, High School, or Adult Basic Education, which are necessary to obtain sufficient employment.

3. Number of Work Registrants Exempt from the E&T program: See Table 1, page 33.

4. Planned Employment and Training Program Participation: See Table 2, page 34.

5. ABAWD Information:

On April 30, 2013, Washington State requested a statewide waiver of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) requirements for Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) under 7CFR 273.24. Washington State’s current ABAWD waiver is set to expire on September 30, 2013.

Under SNAP regulations at 7 CFR 273.24(f)(2), a State can qualify for a 12-month statewide ABAWD waiver if the Department of Labor (DOL)'s Unemployment Insurance Service determines it meets the criteria for extended unemployment benefits as evidence of insufficient jobs. The Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-449), which was signed into law on November 21, 2008, introduced new criteria used by DOL for the extended benefits (EB) program. As a result, some States qualify for extended benefits based on the criteria of the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program, rather than the traditional EB criteria. States may be eligible for statewide waivers if the state is listed on the DOL Extended Benefits Trigger Notice as being “ON” extended benefits, regardless of whether the State qualified based on the traditional EB criteria or the revised EUC criteria. To qualify for the second tier of benefits under the new criteria states must have a three-month total unemployment rate (TUR) of 6 percent or more.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) EC Trigger Notice 2013-13, effective April 14, 2013, shows the State’s 3-month average TUR was 7.5 percent, making Washington eligible for at least the second tier of unemployment benefits.

Washington is awaiting the final decision by the USDA FNS national office on its waiver request. As Washington does not intend to impose specific work requirements on ABAWDs during the coming program year (10/2013 – 9/2014), we are not including specific geographic, 15% waiver information and will not provide for a workfare component in the BF E&T state plan for FFY 2014.

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Table 1

Estimated Participant Levels

Fiscal Year 2014

A. Total number of work registrants in state during theplanned Federal Fiscal Year 490,923

B. List exemptions and the number of work registrants categoricallyexempt from E&T and ABAWD participation: 490,923

All ABAWD work registrants are exempt from ABAWD work requirements under a federal waiver until October 1, 2013. Washington is exempting all residents from mandatory E&T participation in order to have an all-volunteer program.

Total Exemptions: 490,923

C. Percent of all work registrants exempt from E&T (B/A) 100%

D. Number of E&T mandatory participants (A-B) 0

E. Anticipated number of ABAWDs in the state during the FFY 230,897

F. Anticipated number of ABAWDs categorically exempt during the FFY 230,897

G. Anticipated number of ABAWDs to be exempted under 15% allowanceduring the fiscal year 0

H. Number of at-risk ABAWDs expected in the state during the fiscal year (E- (F+G)): 0

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PART II

Table 2

Estimated E&T PlacementsFiscal Year 2014

1. Number of ABAWD recipients expected to begin a qualifying ABAWD component: 8,073

2. Number of all other applicants and recipients (including ABAWDs involved in non-qualifying activities) expected to begin a component: 22,017

3. Total number of applicants and recipients the state agency expects to participate in a component each month during the fiscal year: 2,508

Estimated Individual Participation

Fiscal Year 2014

Number of individuals expected to participate in the BFE&T Program during thefiscal year: 30,090

Estimated ABAWD ACTIVITYFiscal Year 2014

1. Number of Workfare slots expected to be filled by ABAWDS: 0

2. Number of education and training slots expected to be filled by ABAWDS: 14,142

3. Total: 14,142

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PART IV

PROGRAM COSTS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

A. Planned Costs

1. Operating Budget: (See Table 4).

DSHS Administration includes salary, benefits, and other associated costs for program management and monitoring.

2. Sources of E&T funds: (See Table 5).

State money is legislatively appropriated. The Operations Support Division of the Office of the Assistant Secretary provides monthly reports of the financial activity.

3. Maintenance of Effort (MOE) does not apply to the state of Washington.

4. Justification of Education Costs: The federal funds for the Employment and Training program pays only high school equivalency certificate fees, and then only when other sources of payment cannot be found. These fees are not payable with state education funds.

See Table 4, which identifies the allocation of funds, and Table 5, which indicates the source of funds.

B. Contractual Arrangements

Job Search, basic education, vocational training, job retention, specialized and job placement services will be provided through the 50/50 match partnership though contracts with DSHS.

This contractual arrangement will be for cost reimbursement for services provided. Service and fiscal reports will be required, and the Department of Social and Health Services will also provide on-site monitoring. All contracts contain specific language regulating the use of BF E&T funding to abide by federal law.

DSHS implemented a contract with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) to administer all BF E&T partner activities with community and technical college partners. SBCTC will monitor program performance and program compliance, provide program reports and billing reports to DSHS. DSHS will monitor SBCTC for contract and program compliance.

The Office of Programs and Policy of the DSHS Community Services Division (CSD) entered in to a written agreement with the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) section of CSD to administer all BF E&T partner activities with a select group of refugee assistance contractors. ORIA will monitor program performance and program compliance, provide program reports and billing reports to CSD Programs and Policies. Programs and Policies will monitor ORIA for contract and program compliance.

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PART IV

C. Participant Reimbursement 1. Method of reimbursement:

Participants will receive a bus pass or gas voucher for approved transportation costs related to participation in service components, not to exceed $150 each per month.

2. Procedure for childcare payments:

Eligible participants who are in need of dependent care expenses while participating in an Employment and Training component will be referred to the state’s Working Connections Child Care Subsidy Program.

3. Status of State Funding:

State funds are used as match for supportive service costs. These are State General Fund dollars appropriated to Economic Services Administration.

Local Match Initiative funds are contributed or donated to the 50/50 match partnership by any person, company, or organization (public or private.)

D. Cost Allocation : The 50/50 match partnership is required to comply with the Department of Social and Health Services’ policy for contracts and grants, which covers cost allocation. DSHS staff are assigned and coded to the BF E&T program. Contractors will allocate time spent on BF E&T activities through certified time sheets specific to the program.

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PART IVTABLE 4

OPERATING BUDGETFISCAL YEAR 2014

Components State Agency Costs Contractual Participant Reimbursement State

Agency TotalCosts (State plus Federal) Cost for

Salary & Other Dependen

t Transportation Other DependentBenefits Costs Care Care

Fed 5,600 112,9

89 100,5

73

Job Search 604,

520 5,782,94

3 State 4,900 110,7

38 99,82

3 6,822,

086

Fed 1,300 66,23

5 180,4

64

Education 87,3

90 3,319,40

7 State 600 63,75

9 177,2

14 3,896,

370

Fed 4,050 278,91

8 1,648,2

57Vocational Training

43,695

13,901,011 State 3,350

273,292

1,641,007

17,793,580

Fed 1,575 36,30

5 28,6

41

Job Retention 240,395 745,95

5 State 1,225 35,4

05 28,3

40 1,

117,841

TOTALS 976,

000 -

23,749,317

- 22,600

977,641

3,904,319 -

29,629,877

Total Component

Costs 29,629,8

77

Overall State Agency E&T Operational Costs

-

Total State E&T Costs

29,629,877

37

TABLE 5Planned Fiscal Year Costs of the State E & T Program by Category of Funding

FISCAL YEAR 2014

FY 2013 Estimated FY 2014

1. E & T Grant Funds (100% Federal) $ 4,677,061 $ 1,917,267

2. Additional E & T Expenditures: $ 20,479,524 $ 22,808,050

Federal $ 10,276,533 $ 11,460,122State $ 10,202,991 $ 11,347,928

3. Participant Expenses Reimbursed:

a. State limit per month per participantfor transportation / other costs $ 4,741,531 $ 4,881,960Federal $ 2,379,430 $ 2,452,382State $ 2,362,101 $ 2,429,578100% State

b. Up to statewide limit per month per dependentfor dependent care costs $ 35,500 $ 22,600Federal $ 18,800 $ 12,525State $ 16,700 $ 10,075

c. Above the statewide limit per month fordependent care costs:FederalState100% State

4. TOTAL E & T Program Costs $ 29,933,616 $ 29,629,877(1+2+3a+3b+3c=4):

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PART V

Program Reporting and Management Information

A. Method for Obtaining Initial Count of Work Registrants

The count of work registrants in Washington State was taken from an automated system that includes coding and counting of all Basic Food recipients.

B. Method for Ensuring an Unduplicated Work Registrant Count

This system omits double counting of all clients that have been counted within the previous eleven months through matching of Social Security numbers.

C. Methods for Meeting Ongoing Federal Reporting Requirements

1. Management Information System Method

The DSHS, the Automated Client Eligibility System (ACES), and the Employment Security automated system (JOBNET) are used to provide ongoing reports of work registrants and exemptions on an actual basis. Counts of services provided are automated using the e-Jobs Automated System (eJAS), and are reported to the Department of Social and Health Services monthly.

2. Organizational Responsibility for E&T Reporting

a. Responsibility for non-financial E&T reporting:

Carla Reyes, Chief of Programs and PolicyCommunity Services DivisionEconomic Services AdministrationDepartment of Social and Health ServicesState of Washington

b. Responsibility for financial reporting:

Sue Breen, DirectorFiscal Services OfficeOperations Support DivisionEconomic Services AdministrationDepartment of Social and Health ServicesState of Washington

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