Ohio Works First (OWF) builds on the Federal Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996.  It provides time-limited cash assistance which allows participants to receive cash benefits while working or participating in training to develop skills that will help them become self-sufficient.

Employment and Training

All adults receiving OWF cash assistance are required to work or participate in training programs at least 30 hours per week.  The adults in two parent households must work at least 35 hours per week.  Case Managers work with each participant to evaluate their skills, abilities, and barriers to employment and assist in developing an individualized employment plan and self-sufficiency contract.   

Supportive Services

All recipients of OWF cash benefits are eligible to receive health care coverage through Medicaid.  In addition, working families who lose eligibility for cash assistance may receive medical coverage for up to one year after leaving cash assistance to assist them in making the transition to employment.  Child Care assistance is guaranteed for families receiving cash assistance with the family's fee based on a sliding schedule.  Other supportive services, including transportation, is provided or arranged based on the individual needs of the family. 

Prevention, Retention and Contingency Program (PRC)

PRC is not ongoing financial assistance but a program designed to help people overcome immediate barriers to achieving or maintaining employment or economic self-sufficiency, thereby preventing the need for ongoing public assistance.  It is a tool to encourage families to attain and retain employment, prevent dependency, and promote family stability.