MEDIA CONTACT
Jeff Powell, (402) 471-6223,
jeff.powell@nebraska.gov
LINCOLN, NE – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released a Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) expenditure plan for Federal Fiscal Years 2024 through 2027. The plan intends to continue funding current TANF-funded services and introduce five additional services pending approval from the federal Administration of Children and Families (ACF).
The TANF block grant was created by Congress in 1996 to provide states and territories with flexibility in operating programs designed to help low-income families with children achieve economic self-sufficiency. States have broad flexibility to fund services and activities that meet at least one of the four purposes of the program:
- Provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or the homes of relatives;
- End the dependence of needy parents on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage;
- Prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies; and,
- Encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.
Through increased funding of current services, the TANF balance has decreased from $131 million last year to $125 Million as of Oct. 1 of this year. In addition, DHHS is awaiting approval from ACF for five additional services that will provide increased support to low-income families.
“DHHS is committed to utilizing TANF funds to ensure needed services are delivered in an effective way to help Nebraskans achieve self-sufficiency," said CEO Steve Corsi.
The additional services DHHS is awaiting approval from the ACF include:
- Food Bank Services: Provide funding to Nebraska food banks to coordinate with food pantries, schools, churches, emergency shelters, and other non-profit organizations to supply emergency and supplemental food to needy children and families throughout Nebraska.
- Child Advocacy Centers (CACs): CACs provide technical assistance and coordination supports for child abuse investigation and treatment teams.
- Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): CASA services are provided by screened, trained, and highly qualified community volunteers who advocate in court for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
- Cedars Home for Pregnant and Parenting Teens: Cedars is a supportive living arrangement for pregnant or parenting teens under 20. To be a resident, a pregnant or parenting teen must be unable to live in their home because of abuse, neglect, or other extenuating circumstances.
- Domestic Violence Services: Services offer prevention programs to aid victims of domestic abuse, their families, and abusers.
The plan illustrates the reduction in the TANF surplus and the increased spending year-over-year. DHHS will continue to ensure funds are well utilized to help Nebraskans achieve self-sufficiency. To view the full report, click here.