Eligible applicants meeting certain criteria may choose to receive a one time cash assistance payment that will be used to resolve emergency needs.  This assistance may be received only one time in a 5 year period and, in so doing, waives his eligibility for TANF for a period of up to 160 days.

Am I eligible?

Applicants for Diversionary Assistance must meet the following criteria:

• There must be a recent loss or reduction of income.
• There must be an eligible child in the home.
• There must be an emergency need related to securing or maintaining employment.  Payments will be made directly to vendors on behalf of the client.  The payment must be able to resolve the emergency need.

How do I apply?

You may visit the Department of Social Services to complete an application, or we will mail one to you.  An interview is necessary to apply, and interviews are by appointment only.    

This information is to be used as a guideline only
and is not intended to replace TANF program policy.