Revised on: March 14, 2025
Legal References:
The WorkFirst Orientation section includes:
The WorkFirst Orientation is an upfront introduction provided to potential participants about what the WorkFirst program has to offer. WorkFirst Orientation provides an overview of the programs, services, and opportunities available for participants and their families while receiving a TANF grant. All individuals, including adults being added to an active TANF case or transferring from other cash programs, who are mandatory WorkFirst participants as described in WAC 388-310-0200, must complete a WorkFirst Orientation prior to TANF or SFA cash assistance approval. An orientation is not required for individuals who received TANF or SFA within the past 30 days.
The WorkFirst Orientation is delivered one-on-one, either by phone or desk-side, by WorkFirst staff. Each participant is provided the WorkFirst Folder, DSHS 22-395, followed by immediate viewing of the WorkFirst Orientation Video. A Desk-Side WorkFirst Orientation Script is available to support phone WorkFirst Orientations and interpretation of the video content for participants who are limited English proficient (LEP).
WorkFirst staff conducts the orientation before TANF or SFA cash assistance approval to provide a broad overview of the WorkFirst Program.
When presenting WorkFirst opportunities during the Orientation:
The WorkFirst Orientation Video provides a basic overview of the TANF and WorkFirst program, including:
It also emphasizes the importance of communication with DSHS, so the Community Services Division team may continue to provide supports and services where necessary.
Considering the streamlined focus of the WorkFirst Orientation Video, there are several topics that WorkFirst staff need to ensure are covered more in-depth with the participant either during the eligibility determination process (including Orientation), the Comprehensive Evaluation, or during Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) development.
These topics include:
The Desk-Side WorkFirst Orientation staff training is available to assist in weaving these pieces of information into already occurring conversations with the participant.