As the discussion earlier indicated, some Work First managers believe the program needs more resources for support services like child care and transportation. However, other managers do not believe that simply increasing resources would resolve these issues. For example, they acknowledge that because most daycare centers operate during business hours, clients working second or third shift jobs may have difficulties finding care. Furthermore, several respondents note that clients who have many young children often need multiple child care arrangements, which are both difficult to set up and to balance with school and work schedules. Finally, managers believe that some clients simply do not want to use child care.
Managers also acknowledge transportation as a barrier to work.
Clients often do not live near routes, and many do not have cars. A few respondents realize that solutions to this problem lie outside their jurisdiction. Without funding increases and a commitment to provide regional transportation services, many transportation-related barriers cannot be resolved. Managers' comments imply that other sectors will have to become involved to address this client barrier. Finally, Work First managers may not be able to adequately address clients' educational deficiencies, because, as noted above, the program does not offer education and training services.