TANF is a federal block-grant program that provides funding to states for programs that support eligible families with children and promote economic stability and self-sufficiency.

TANF and Ohio Works First are connected, but they are not interchangeable. TANF is the broader federal program and funding source. Ohio Works First is Ohio’s TANF cash-assistance program. TANF funding also supports other services, including certain Prevention, Retention and Contingency programs.

Residents apply for the specific Ohio or Summit County program that meets their needs (like PRC or OWF), rather than applying for a separate Summit County benefit called TANF.