Welcome to the
Cuyahoga Job and Family Services Community e-Newsletter.
This monthly newsletter will provide helpful information whether you are trying to access services or assisting residents with accessing services. The newsletter will feature information on agency programs and services, community events, partnerships, and much more.
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Meet the Leadership
Kevin Gowan- Administator
Kevin Gowan became the Administrator of Cuyahoga Job and Family Services in 2018. Previously, Administrator Gowan served as Deputy Director and Acting Director of the Office of Child Support Services. He reports to David Merriman, Director of the Cuyahoga County Department of Health and Human Services
Christy Nicholls - Deputy Administrator - Medicaid
216-987-6789
Ms. Nicholls oversees Medicaid, the Specialized Medicaid Benefits Center (SMBC), Long-Term Care (LTC) services, the Southgate Neighborhood Family Services Center and the CJFS hearings unit.
Christopher Frech - Deputy Administrator - Eligibility Contact Center
216-987-7752
Mr. Frech oversees the Eligibility Contact Center and three CJFS neighborhood family service centers- Old Brooklyn, Quincy Place, and Virgil E Brown. He also oversees the Westshore Document Drop-off center.
Paul Bounds - Deputy Administrator - Employment and Career Services
216-987-1809
Mr. Bounds oversees Workforce Development, including the Jobs, Education and Training Department (JET). JET works with customers who must complete work assignments to receive benefits including customers in the SNAP to Skills program and the Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program. He also oversees the E-processing department responsible for determining eligibility for childcare assistance and emergency assistance programs.
Joyce Perez-Stable - Deputy Administrator - Performance, Evaluation, and Innovation
216-987-8126
Ms. Perez-Stable oversees the Quality Assurance department. She evaluates performance metrics and ensures consistency of our operations and services. She is also tasked with developing and implementing standard operating procedures and policies. She serves as a liaison to the state and creates local plans for state requirements and responds to state corrective actions.
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Striving to Improve Customer Service Through Staff Development
Cuyahoga Job and Family Services has established a policy and procedure for conducting standardized one-on-one conversations with staff that will be referred to as a coaching session. The coaching sessions are designed to strengthen work performance, assist with individual growth and development, foster a positive work environment, and to enhance our services to the community. This gives employees the opportunity to get feedback about job performance as well as foster more open communication between staff and management. During these sessions, employees will also have an opportunity to establish a personal growth plan which will support staff morale.
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Are You A 14-24-Year-Old Interested in Learning Job Skills and Earning Money? |
The Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program (CCMEP) is an innovative program that can help low-income youth ages 14-24 build career paths, find employment, and break the cycle of poverty. The program offers a wide range of services specifically tailored for each participant.
Participants will focus on activities designed to help them achieve goals related to employment in their chosen career, increased earnings and/or obtaining a work certificate or credential. After achieving their goals, participants will continue to receive follow- up services such as leadership training, help with work-related problems, mentoring and/or work- related peer support groups. CCMEP is a unique program because it integrates funding from both the WIOA youth program and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to offer more coordinated, individualized services than any other program. Unlike many other anti-poverty programs, CCMEP engages participants in meaningful employment and training activities that can help them build lifelong, sustainable careers. If you would like more information on enrolling in this program, please call 216-777-8222 or send them a message at https://www.clevelandyrc.org/contact. You may also call 844-640-6446 Mon-Fri 8am-4pm or visit benefits.ohio.gov to apply for Ohio Works First (OWF) cash assistance and your eligibility will be determined. Additional information for the CCMEP program can be found on the CJFS website.
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Changes for Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) |
Until further notice, monthly premiums have been suspended for customers receiving Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD). Notices were previously sent in the mail about this change. Additionally, it is important to note that customers receiving this form of Medicaid may have been receiving a deduction in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) budget for the MBIWD premium. Removing that deduction may cause a slight decrease to their SNAP benefit allotment.
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COVID-19 Resources Available for Families in Need |
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) has made funds available from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to provide assistance to families affected by COVID-19. This emergency assistance is available to assist eligible families with essential needs during the current state of emergency.
Temporary funding through the Prevention, Retention, and Contingency (PRC) program will allow Cuyahoga Job and Family Services (CJFS) to provide emergency assistance to eligible families through a PRC voucher. While limited funding is available, COVID-19 PRC vouchers will provide aid with additional food assistance, select essential supplies, and housing costs.
Please visit our website for additional details regarding eligibility, availability, and how to submit an application. Deadline to submit applications is Friday, November 19, 2021.
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Accessing Public Benefits Has Never Been Easier
Cuyahoga Job and Family Services (CJFS) encourages the public to use the various self-service options available to apply and manage public benefit cases. Cuyahoga Job and Family Services will provide meaningful access to program information, benefits and/or services for all Limited-English Proficient applicants/recipients as well as individuals with disabilities. We do this by providing access to language services, including American Sign Language, please be sure to request it from CJFS staff.
For more information on the different ways to access services through CJFS please click here .
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Protect yourself, your family members, and friends by getting the free COVID-19 vaccine. All Ohio Medicaid and MyCare recipients age 12 and older who receive their first dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine between now and December 31, 2021, can receive a $100 gift card. To get this incentive, the customer should contact their managed care plan provider at the number on the back of their medical card. For more information visit www.covidvaxonthespot.com.
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Connecting the Unconnected |
Nearly one in four households in Cuyahoga County have no internet access. If you are a Cuyahoga county resident age 60 or older, have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line or receiving government assistance you may be eligible for a free computer. If you are a family with K-12 students, or a job seeker you may also qualify. Connecting the Unconnected is a program designed to help low-income residents bridge the digital divide. Connecting the unconnected has income requirements so that customers can receive a free device through financial aid funding. Computers are available for purchase as well for anyone and can be purchased at 3126 St Clair Ave Cleveland OH 44114. Families of K-12 students do not need to provide an income verification they simply need to verify their child is in school. If you’re interested in the program, please visit pcsforpeople.org/ohio to check your eligibility and register for a computer. PCs for People requires photo identification and income documentation for program qualification. Income verifications must be dated within the last 6 months and have the recipient’s name on the document. Acceptable documents for income documentation fall into two categories: 1) Proof of current enrollment in an income-based government assistance program or 2) Documentation from a government source of current income under 200%of the federal poverty level (relative to household size). This program does not check citizenship or immigration status. Eligibility requirements will vary based on participant category.
Seniors:
· Driver’s license or state ID card for non-drivers, Passport, Formal ID card (such as veteran or student), or Company or work-issued identification.
· Income eligibility document
Job Seekers:
· Driver’s license or state ID card for nondrivers, Passport, Formal ID card (such as veteran or student), or Company or work-issued identification.
· Income eligibility document
Families with K-12 students:
You must submit verification of K-12 school enrollment within 7 days of your order. This can be a report card, letter from a school, etc.
But must show:
· School or district name
· Student or parent name
· Date
Computers are available on a first-come, first-served for families with K-12 students in Cuyahoga County who submit proof of enrollment. Once you have applied for the program, check your email for follow-up instructions, if you are a senior and need assistance establishing an email address help is available. Contact Ashbury Senior Computer community center at 216-202-4292 or email info@asc3.org. You may also stop by the center located at 11011 Asbury Ave. Cleveland, OH 44106. If you have any questions, please send an email to cuyahoga@pcsforpeople.org or call 216-930-5741 to speak with someone. For more information on eligibility requirements, and submitting documents please visit Eligibility - PCs for People.
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Free Eviction Help
Housing is a basic human need and the starting point for economic opportunity. Safe, stable housing is essential for economic, educational, and family stability. Unfortunately, too many families living in poverty are facing eviction. Evictions can be devastating for families. If you or someone you know is currently facing an eviction there is help available. Free Eviction Help provides legal assistance to tenants facing eviction so those tenants may stay in their homes or locate better housing, stay out of emergency shelters, and keep their children in school. A lawyer can help a tenant improve housing conditions and avoid eviction and homelessness. Families helped through this program may also receive information about resources for rental assistance, case management, access to food, and other important services. Legal Aid works to help as many people as possible with eviction cases. Thanks to COVID-19 federal funding via Cuyahoga County, Legal Aid is working together with United Way to do outreach and provide help to people facing eviction. If you did not hear about the free eviction help before your court date, you may still be able to get legal help on the day of your eviction hearing. If you think you qualify for help, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland (Legal Aid).
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Free Coat Giveaway
Join the Northeast Community Based Services Program and Moore Counseling & Meditation Services as they host a free coat giveaway. The event will take place at 22639 Euclid Avenue on November 18, 2021 from 11 am - 2:00 pm. Coats will be provided on a First Come, First Served basis. Coats are provided for K-8 students and parents must bring ID, proof of residency and verification of child's school. Event is open to residents of zip codes 44112, 44117, 44119, 44123, and 44132 only.
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Are you pregnant and in need of support?
Pregnancy is a wonderful time filled with joy and the happy thoughts of the new life growing inside of you. However, pregnancy can also bring worries, questions, and the need for a variety of support services. Neighborhood Leadership Institute (NLI) wants to help by providing Neighborhood Navigators. Neighborhood navigators are your bridge to a healthier baby and a healthier you. Neighborhood Navigation services helps connect pregnant mothers to the resources they need/desire to help keep them and their unborn child healthy. This is a short-term program up to 21 days geared towards lowering the infant mortality rate by being a support system and linking expectant mothers to resources and services that will continue past 21 days. Navigators are trained paraprofessionals who are passionate and committed to the health and wellness of their neighbors. Each participant is assigned a neighborhood navigator who identifies their needs and links them to the appropriate agency or provider. Through this program you participants may receive help with resources such as baby items, clothing, education, food, employment and so much more. If interested in the program, please contact Tammy Merritt Certified Community Health Worker with NLI at 216-682-5424.
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Cuyahoga County needs Corrections Officers
Cuyahoga County has a great need for Corrections Officers. Starting wage is $24/hr. and includes a comprehensive benefits package. To qualify for the position candidates
- must have a high school diploma or GED
- be at least 21 years of age, and have no prior felony or major misdemeanor convictions
- they must also have no pending cases against them.
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November SNAP Emergency Allotments Aproved
Ohio has been approved for emergency allotments (EAs) for November to bring all Assistance Groups (AGs) up to each AG’s maximum allotment and at least a $95 supplement to all AGs. The emergency allotments are scheduled to be available on Ohio Direction Cards by Wednesday, November 24, 2021.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Virtual Hold and Text Alerts
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Each month the Frequently Asked Questions section will feature a specific topic.
Q: I called the contact center for an interview and was disconnected after holding for hours what should I do?
A: We apologize for this inconvenience please in this instance report this to our Customer Resolution Department at 216-802-2810. Please be sure to leave a detailed message including your name and case number if you have it along with the date of call, approximate time you called in as well as the number you called from. Please also include the approximate time that you were disconnected.
Q: How can I receive text alerts of my case status?
A: Call the Ohio Eligibility Contact Center at 1-844-640-6446. Select Option 2 for Medical, Food and Cash Assistance. Enter your zip, Social Security Number, and Date of Birth. System will then read you a status of your benefits. When you reach the self-service menu, press 2 for text alerts.
Q: What is the benefit of text alerts?
A: Text message updates can keep you updated as to when documents are received, application updates, and benefit approval. Please note that although documents are not received the case may not yet be processed. Please allow 5 business days from when documents are submitted for case processing. (Standard Message rates apply)
Q: I have been on hold with the contact center for hours I can not wait on the phone any longer is there anything that I can do.
A: Yes, when you call in and are waiting on hold you will hear the automated voice telling you “Rather than wait on hold, we will call you back when it is your turn between (and it will tell you the estimated time for the callback). You will not lose your place in line. To receive a call back press 1.” You will then be asked to input the telephone number that you wish to be called back on . This feature is available for new application interviews and when calling to renew benefits.
Q: I requested a call back from the contact center will I receive a call back?
Q: I have an interview today is there a way to get my documents in before the interview?
A: Yes, you may upload documents via the self- service portal at www.benefits.ohio.gov. If you have an established account, you may upload documents there before or during the interview so that they are available for the eligibility specialist within minutes. Please let the eligibility specialist that you have uploaded documents via the self-service portal.
Q: I was not able to complete my phone interview due to the long wait time what should I do?
A: Call the Ohio Eligibility Contact Center at 1-844-640-6446 Mon – Fri 8am – 4pm to complete the missed interview before the end of the month to avoid any delays in getting your benefits.
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Over the next three weeks, we will hold a contest to name the newsletter. A selection committee will choose the winner, who will be acknowledged in the renamed newsletter debut. Here are a few guidelines for submissions:
- Submit only original work.
- The name should be relatively short - two to three words.
- It should express concepts such as public benefits or human services.
- It should be unique - there are many organizations that send out newsletters.
- Be creative!
The renamed newsletter will debut in the November 2021 edition. Start brainstorming and throwing your ideas into the ring! The deadline for entries is close of business on December 9, 2021.
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Stay up to date with community events by regularly visiting the Cuyahoga County Dept. of Health and Human Services event calendar. Find local community events, as well as career and job-related events.
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Join CJFS for a virtual Long-Term care community forum Thursday December 9, 2021 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM. For information of having CJFS attend community event or provide training on our programs and services please feel free to contact us. You may also access outreach materials .
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On the fourth Wednesday of each month CJFS will close the contact center early at 1:30 P.M for monthly all-staff meetings. Customers can utilize self-service options to check on benefit status during this time. There will be no early contact center closure for the month of November. CJFS will be closed in observance of thanksgiving on November 25-26.
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Help CJFS learn about our subscribers and the type of information you would like to see in the newsletter. |
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CJFS promotes economic self-sufficiency and personal responsibility for families and individuals by providing access to jobs, benefits, and community services. Staff determine eligibility for a range of quality services that include Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Prevention, Retention, and Contingency (PRC), Child Care Assistance, and Workforce Programs, in accordance with Federal, State, and County regulations. |
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This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/cr/fns-nondiscrimination-statement. Cuyahoga Job and Family Services provides access to an interpreter at no charge to customers who are limited – English proficient and individuals with impaired vision and/or hearing.
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