BISMARCK – This spring, the North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Economic Assistance Division is partnering with the Office of Family Assistance Peer Technical Assistance Network to conduct a comprehensive review of the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

TANF provides temporary financial assistance, averaging $297 a month, and work readiness, training and job placement services and support to about 950 qualifying low-income families per month in North Dakota. Qualifying families include children who are deprived of support or care by at least one parent.

Eight of 10 TANF recipients are children. The TANF program was created during welfare reform in the late 1990s and includes a 60-month lifetime limit on participation.

The technical assistance will examine the current service delivery system, policy and administration of TANF services. The department will engage with key stakeholder groups including human service zones, tribal entities, various state agencies, contractors, community partners and individuals receiving services to gather program data and feedback. The information learned through this process will be shared later this fall and used for planning and future decision making.

Individuals with questions or who would like to learn more can call 328-2332, toll-free 800-755-2716, 711 (TTY) or email dhseap@nd.gov. Information about North Dakota’s TANF program is online at www.nd.gov/dhs/services/financialhelp/tanfjobs.html.