Episode 26: Prevention: Stabilizing Families Through TANF

Date:

Family poverty can increase the likelihood of child maltreatment. Public assistance agencies administer the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to provide financial support and employment assistance to low-income families. To reduce a family's risk of maltreatment and involvement in the child welfare system, child maltreatment prevention programs are being offered to TANF families.

'Stabilizing Families Through TANF' showcases the Oregon Department of Human Services' Family Support and Connections (PDF - 1,239 KB), a Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention program. Family Support and Connections works with families participating in Oregon's TANF program to identify their needs, connect them to community resources, and further develop parenting skills. Family Support and Connections family advocates partner with local Self Sufficiency Program offices, which administer the state's TANF program, to stabilize and strengthen families and avoid their involvement with the child welfare system.

The following topics were covered during this episode:

  • How family advocates collaborate with their Self Sufficiency Program counterparts to share information and serve families
  • The shift from just addressing the symptoms of poverty, maltreatment, and neglect to addressing their root causes
  • The characteristics of a successful family advocate as well as the challenges they face

'Stabilizing Families Through TANF' features insights and perspectives from the following individuals:

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