TAFDC Pathways to Work Programs Overview

The Department of Transitional Assistance offers a variety of programs, both funded and non-funded, designed to help clients on their education and career pathway and towards economic stability. TAFDC Pathways to Work includes contracted providers, cross-agency initiatives, and local and community partnerships.

Both case managers and clients can learn about the programs and resources in their local area through TAFDC Pathways to Work Orientations or connecting directly to a Full Engagement Worker (FEW).

Funded and Contracted Programs

DTA has funded/paid partnerships with a selection of service providers to assist Pathways to Work eligible clients by working with them to set goals, obtain education, certifications and work skills that will move the family towards achieving economic mobility.

These providers work with specific DTA offices to meet the needs of that area. Each program is tailored to meet the needs of an identified client population and promote successful education and employment outcomes. Organizational and program offerings will vary across the state. Many also serve clients under SNAP Path to Work or through other referral sources.

These programs include:

Work Participant Program (WPP)
Competitive Integrated Employment Services (CIES)
Young Parent Programs (YPP)
DTA Works (DTAW)
Massachusetts Office of Refugees and Immigrants (MORI)
Secure Jobs Initiative (SJI)
Empowering to Employ (ETE)

Local and Community Partnerships

Clients may also participate in community-based education, training and employment programs approved by the Department as a TAFDC Pathways to Work activity. A client may enroll in these activities on their own or may be referred by the Department if determined to be the right fit to meet their goals. These options may include:

College, including certificate and degree programs
Employment Training and Education; including vocational, certificate and job search programs
Basic Education; including Adult Education, High School Equivalency (HSE) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs
Work study and unpaid internships
TAFDC Community Service through approved non-profit volunteer sites

Every client will have the opportunity through their case manager and Full Engagement Workers (FEWs) to share their goals, discuss supports and explore what DTA and their local area has to offer.

TAFDC Pathways to Work Programs Overview

Funded and Contracted Programs

Local and Community Partnerships

Related Topics

Last Update: August 9, 2023