Best Practice
TANF O AND FAMILY
CAP
Rodney Carter
Charlton/Brantley Counties
Ph# 912-496-2527 or 912-462-6171
Fax# 912-462-7255
During my orientations in each of my counties I try to slip in some practical information as much as possible. When I reach the family cap rule form I elaborate why I think this form is a good idea. I tell the applicants that the old welfare system was abused by people who would have several children in order to make their checks increase. The family cap rule form is the state’s answer to this situation. I also tell them that if they are applying for TANF or they are on TANF that this is no time to be making additions to their family. If you are on TANF you are not able to support the family members that you now have by yourself so why should you want to make your problems bigger.
I actually have never had anyone disagree with me on this point. Everyone has been positive and agreed with this so far. I have had a couple of conversation where the applicants were giving me examples of people who took advantage of welfare by having children. Also, at some point I point out again that TANF is work preparation program. If they want to have more children then let TANF do what it is made to do and help them find employment so that they can start providing for their families and their selves.