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1. How will I be able to participate in the program without transportation or child care?

The Welfare to Work (WtW) Program offers supportive services to assist each individual in his/her assigned activity. For example, you will be reimbursed for mileage to and from your activity and your Case Manager will approve child care services for the time you are at your activity.

2. What will I be expected to do in the Welfare to Work Program?

After completing a career assessment, a participant will be eligible to attend college, participate in a work experience position and job search. It does not end there; however, every employment plan is developed for each individual participant, so the activity options may be endless.

3. Why do I have to participate if I am already working?

Every adult (unless exempt) is required to participate in Welfare to Work if he/she is receiving cash aid (TANF/CalWORKs) benefits. The idea is to help each individual become self-sufficient. If you have a job but still need cash aid benefits to assist your family, you may be able to benefit from taking a few college classes in order to increase your earning potential. We may also be able to assist you in providing additional supportive services.

4. I was in foster care, am I eligible for ILP?

It is possible, but there are other requirements that must be met too. You must have been a ward or a dependent of the court after your 16th birthday. You must have been in foster care on or after your 16th birthday. Certain facilities are not considered foster care such as detention facilities. To find out if you or someone you know is eligible for ILP, contact the ILP Coordinator.

5. I heard that you can find former foster youth a place to live, is that true?

Currently, Mariposa County does not offer housing specifically for former foster youth. If you were or are eligible for ILP, it is possible that you may be eligible for Transitional Housing in another county or financial assistance to get your own place. It is best to contact the ILP Coordinator to find out what help you might be able to get.

6. Is ILP just another boring class that I have to go to?

No, ILP is an interactive learning environment! Not only do you learn life skills but you get hands-on experience in topics such as job searching, cooking, budgeting, apartment hunting, automobile purchasing and much more. There are summer employment opportunities, exciting and fun field trips and one-on-one support from ILP staff to assist you in being successful. Oh, did I mention there are snacks provided! To check-out ILP for yourself, contact the ILP Coordinator.

7. What are the requirements for medical assistance, Food Stamps, County Medical Services or Cal Works programs?

Each public assistance program has its own set of rules. In general, eligibility is based on the number of persons in the family, income, resources and family situation. Each program uses this information differently. Please contact the office for more information.

8. How do I get MediCal for my aged parents?

Contact the office by phone, mail or in person and ask to apply for Medi-Cal for them. A helpful eligibility professional will help you with your application.

9. I am receiving Social Security benefits. Can I get Food Stamp benefits?

Individuals receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) in California cannot get Food Stamp benefits. If you are receiving other Social Security benefits, you may be eligible for Food Stamp benefits if you meet eligibility requirements for income, resources and other criteria. Contact the office by phone, mail or in person to find out more.

10. I have MediCal now. What is a MediCal Share of Cost (SOC)?

If your income is more than MediCal limits for your family size, you will have to pay a certain amount within the month you have medical expenses. The amount that you pay is called your Share of Cost (SOC). When you pay, or are obligated to pay this amount to your medical provider, then you have ‘met your Share of Cost’ (SOC) for that month. For example, if your SOC is $75, you must first pay or be obligated to pay $75 to your provider(s). You may then receive MediCal approved services at no cost the remainder of that month.

11. Can I have a job and still get Food Stam benefits?

Individuals or families with employed household members may be eligible for Food Stamp benefits. Benefit amounts are based on the household’s income, family size, resources and other eligibility factors. Contact the office to find out more about the Food Stamp Program.