Workforce Development Frequently Asked Questions
For more information call 330.630.4646 or email SummitNEXT@JFS.Ohio.gov
Each Benefit Bridge application is carefully reviewed for eligibility. Once all eligibility factors are verified, staff will continue reviewing the applicant by determining their suitability for Benefit Bridge. This involves conducting a phone interview and completing an intake assessment simultaneously. If the applicant is determined to be suitable, they will receive a phone call from the provider informing them of their approved enrollment.
Members can earn up to $7000 in cash earned incentives throughout their 18 months in the program.
Any Summit County resident that has had a reduction in SNAP benefits due to increased earned income and/or an increase in Title XX co-payment due to an increase in earned income.
Yes. Supportive services can be provided for transportation, child care, work supports, and additional supportive services are available on a case-by-case basis.
Summit County NEXT is the Benefit Bridge program designed to provide opportunities and address the needs of individuals who are experiencing the effects of the benefits cliff. NEXT provides retention and supportive services for recently employed individuals who are experiencing a reduction in public assistance caused by an increase in household earnings known as the benefits cliff. Although the household earnings have increased, they have not increased enough to replace the loss in benefits.
The program helps SNAP participants gain skills, training, and/or work experience to increase their ability to obtain employment or better their employment situation and become self-sufficient.
Satisfactory progression must be maintained during enrollment through case management services or disenrollment could occur.
You will receive a call, text, and/or email to discuss the SNAP E&T program in more detail. After the discussion, an in-person assessment must be scheduled and completed to determine suitability as part of the SNAP E&T enrollment process.
Yes. SNAP E&T is a great steppingstone into the Benefit Bridge program.
Yes. Supportive services can be given for transportation, childcare, work equipment, and work attire to list a few examples.
All residents of Summit County who receive SNAP are eligible to participate.
- Call us at 330-630-4642
- Walk into the Next Step youth resource room at the OhioMeansJobs Center Summit County located at 1040 E. Tallmadge Avenue Akron, Ohio 44310, Monday-Friday from 8:00am-4:00 pm
- Find us in Unite Us, ask your social service professional to make a referral
The BOSS program is free for those meeting the eligibility requirements to enroll
- A customized goal blueprint
- Access to multiple resources
- Paid work experience
- Supportive Services
- Financial assistance for short term training
- Study skills and tutoring
- Financial literacy
- Assistance with High School Equivalency Diploma