Children who watch their parents go to work learn essential lessons about life. No role model is more potent than a parent who daily displays the discipline, initiative and strength required by work. TANF provides temporary public assistance to needy families while emphasizing participation in a work activity. The goal is to promote economic self-sufficiency and independence to TANF recipients. New York State adopted this provision in December 1996 which means that the clock began ticking on recipients receiving assistance as of that date and over one year has already elapsed towards the lifetime five year limit.
Increased emphasis is placed on work.
TANF recipients must be employed or participate in a work-related activity within 2 years of receiving assistance. Attendance of school age children must be monitored to ensure attendance in school classes. In New York State, this effort is known as Learnfare. Teen parents must be living in an adult-supervised environment to be eligible for TANF assistance. Unmarried teen parents of a minor child over three months of age must be enrolled in high school or a GED program to remain eligible for temporary assistance.