The Welfare to Work System passed federal legislation in 1997. The design and scope changed welfare from potential lifetime dependency to
serving transitional needs over a five year lifetime limit. Also a mandatory work component after 24 months of Transitional Assistance to Needy Families cash assistance was imposed.
Funding is provided through the Department of Public Welfare.
There are two different components within the contract. The first one being the Employment, Advancement and Retention Network, Career Development Component (EARN CDC), which is to
ensure the achievement of the federal mandated work participation rate which is 50%. The second component was the Employment, Advancement and Retention Network, Work Support Component
(EARN WSC) which was for new cash recipients. North Central served a total of 977 clients within both of these programs.
