Ending welfare through work first. Manager and client views

This paper examines how one state implemented a "work first" approach to moving welfare recipients into employment It also looks at how program managers and clients evaluate the adequacy of this program model in light of the diverse needs of welfare recipients and how those needs affect their success in the labor market. We describe the evolution of work first policies and question the appropriateness of this quick labor force attachment model as the exclusive strategy for assisting all recipients. We use data from an implementation study of local welfare programs in Michigan and from a survey of a random sample of single mothers who received welfare. Local Work First program managers and recipients give the Work First program mixed appraisals, and the two studies identify many barriers that may keep clients from effectively participating and finding jobs. The barriers noted in both studies are sometimes consistent with each other, but Work First program managers tend to underestimate the prevalence of some problems. If future policy and program changes were responsive to these concerns, work first programs would expand assessment of client needs and provide additional services, supports, and training opportunities.