Advocacy Resources     DPW UPDATES In 2004, DPW made changes to their programs to increase access to them and assist clients ability to achieve self-sufficiency. The following are highlights of the most crucial ones: Effective September 9, 2003 the SPOC program was expanded to include the Upfront program (8-week job search). Clients now receive a thorough assessment of their skills/barriers in the beginning vs. in the middle or at the end. Effective February 13, 2004 the extension given to clients for allowable days missed in an Employment and Training vendor activity (Welfare-to-Work program) was increased from 5 days to 10 days. An additional extension may be granted for extraordinary circumstances. Effective July 1, 2004 the limit on the length of participation in a Vocational Skills Training Program through SPOC has been increased from 12 months to 24 months, which allow clients to enroll in associates degree program or other long-term training activity. DPW pays the cost of the program if the client goes through the SPOC program. Effective July 1, 2004 Life Skills activities have been expanded to include activities such as doctor’s appointments and counseling visits and will count toward participation in the SPOC program. Effective July 1, 2004 DPW clarified that clients must be informed of the Special Allowances and Supportive Services that are available to them when participating in a work or training activity; issuance of payments is to be done within 10 days of the request (upon verification of eligibility). Effective July 19, 2004 DPW no longer requires verification or proof that a child living with you is a relative in order to qualify for Cash. They now consider your statement as sufficient verification. Effective July 21, 2004 MPP services are extended to previous participants in the program who have been awarded SSI. For 90 additional days, these participants will continue to receive MPP services through the MPP Transitional Component. The program will assist MPP participants through the transition from TANF to SSI. The MPP Case Manager will continue to offer intensive case management so that the client continues to be connected to community agencies that are helping him/her eliminate barriers. Clients must be referred or actively participating in MPP at the time they are approved for SSI. If the client remains on Food Stamps, he/she can continue to receive Special Allowances through an Employment Development Plan.