Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, many Hamilton County food assistance recipients will have to prove that they are working either in a job or work experience program to continue receiving benefits.

This change means that any adult between the ages of 18 and 50, who is not pregnant, does not have a disability and is not in an assistance group with a minor child, will need to get involved in a work experience program now in order to produce the required documentation after Jan. 1.

The change is a result of the expiration of the state of Ohio’s waiver for Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWD).

The 18,000 individuals expected to be affected in Hamilton County will be given the opportunity to choose the job training program or work experience program – as long as it meets requirements – that best meets their needs and goals for future employment.

Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents must meet one of the following:

• Work 20 hours per week
   
• Participate in a job search program 20 hours per week (for a limited time)
   
• Volunteer in a work experience program. The number of hours you must complete is the amount you are receiving in food assistance, divided by minimum wage.

With the work requirement taking effect in one month, current food assistance recipients should begin fullfilling the requirement now. Beginning Jan. 1, benefits will be terminated for individuals who are not employed or meeting the requirement. Without verified documentation, food assistance will end.

Over the next month, caseworkers will be available to help families through the transition. Learn more about registering for a work-experience program on our website.