The terms employment and assistance go hand and glove with the Welfare Reform Act of 1996. This allows us, at Employment and Assistance, to help our clients gain self-sufficiency. Our "Work First" employment programs give our clients the needed help to locate and acquire employment. Our programs are income dependent and eligibility for them are based on preset income levels. The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 set time limits for federally funded assistance, and work requirements for welfare recipients. Applicants and recipients for Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF) are required to find employment quickly, and take responsibility for themselves and their families. As part of this initiative, if you qualify for TANF or SNAP, we may require you to see our New York Works councilors at Clinton County Employment and Training Administration (CCETA) . The caring and helpful staff of CCETA interviews prospective clients and places them in a Job Readiness program that requires the client to be present for a total of 21 hours a week, with a 4 to 6 week window for training. Training will include an orientation where clients are informed of the realities of present day job markets, expectations and guidelines that are necessary to gain and retain employment. If the client has reliable childcare and transportation arranged then employment issues are addressed such as:

• Labor Market and suitable employers
   
• Assistance with interview skills
   
• Assistance with Resume construction
   
• Assistance with job applications
   
• Client counseling referring to dress code and conduct

If at the time of orientation areas of support needs have been identified that will sustain employment than Support Services are activated to insure temporary help. These may include:

• Car repair
   
• Short term insurance payment
   
• Purchase of work required clothing
   
• Various licensing and course fees