For that amount, we pay for job counselors, transportation and any other help they need, including education. The state law allows participants to attend school for up to one year, but in Ramsey County, we obviously cannot offer that to everyone. Each county will have its own unique approach. The flexibility in this new temporary assistance program challenges us to make it work for people and also make our own financial ends meet. Resources are limited, and counties will need to make difficult choices every day.
Barriers vary tremendously from person to person.
In Ramsey County, many participants also lack functional English-speaking skills needed to work. That is fine, if it is approved by the job counselor. I suspect in many cases, such a plan would be okayed. But remember, the goal is independence. Yes, if the plan is approved, then the student would have access to child care assistance.