Abstract
The functioning of the U.S. social safety net as a support for low-income families depends on various means-tested programs and a system of both public agencies and nonprofit organizations. Using in-depth interviews (n = 5) and a survey of nonprofit employees (n = 73), we seek to understand the role of nonprofits in promoting equitable access to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Our findings reveal that public assistance programs are a necessary support for families, but that access is not always easy or equitable, and nonprofits form a protective layer of support providing resources and guidance for those most in need. Implications for policy and partnerships between the various components of the social safety net are discussed.
| Original language | American English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 121-134 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Families in Society |
| Volume | 103 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Apr 2022 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
Keywords
- administration/management/organizations
- case management
- client–worker relationship
- interdisciplinary practice
- poverty
- vulnerable/marginalized populations
- working alliance