Former TANF Recipient Now Works for Pottawatomie County DHS

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 The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the program that provides Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - commonly known as TANF. The federally-funded program provides limited assistance for low income families for a limited time.

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the program that provides Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - commonly known as TANF. The federally-funded program provides limited assistance for low income families for a limited time.

That little bit of time was all Tiffany Walker needed to get back on track.

In 2012, Walker left her job to pursue an Associate's Degree in Behavioral Science.

"I decided to further my education," said Walker. "By 2013, I had depleted my savings and financial aid was no longer enough for me and my two children to live on, so I started job searching. In July 2013, I applied for TANF at the Pottawatomie County office."

While continuing to receive TANF, Walker kept looking for work and submitted her resume' to several businesses. She was interviewed for several jobs but was unable to find employment.

"I was close to the end of the road with TANF," she said, "and there were no other programs that fit my situation; and I could not locate a WEP (Work Experience Program)."

A DHS social worker told Walker about a 17-week class called Bridges Out of Poverty. The classes provide participants with specific strategies for improving outcomes for those living in poverty. At one of the classes, Walker met Adult and Family Services (AFS) Pottawatomie County Director Cindy Rudich. Walker shared her story with Rudich before discovering that Rudich worked for DHS.

"The fact that she wanted to continue her education was important," said Rudich. "Tiffany is exactly the person TANF is for - someone who just needs a little help for a little while."

Walker was invited to participate in the WEP program at the Pottawatomie County office, primarily imaging documents for other staff and putting together packets for AFS workers.

"All of the workers were welcoming," said Walker. "They always answered any questions I had and were accepting of letting me learn new things. I'm so very grateful for the work I did so I could help them better serve their clients."

In June, Walker was offered a full time position with DHS, working with LIHEAP clients. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally-funded program that helps low income families pay their utility bills.

"I believe by participating in the WEP program, I was better prepared for that position," said Walker. "I had knowledge of forms, procedures, and knew which workers I could ask questions of in different situations."

Walker is now a DHS Customer Service Representative. She is also attending Seminole State College and plans to graduate in December.

"Working for DHS was an achievement I thought was impossible," said Walker. "Working here allows me to give back to the community and help people who need it - just like someone helped me."

Rudich says Walker is a great addition to the team.

"There is a tremendous amount of support for her among staff," said Rudich. "We're very excited about having her join the Pott County DHS family."

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