1.4.1 Referral and Case Management

The W-2 agency must evaluate the immediate and long-term needs of applicants and:

1. Provide information regarding all local housing and emergency financial resources; and

2. Make appropriate referrals to assist the applicant in meeting immediate and long-term needs. (See 1.4.1.1)

In addition, the W-2 agency is encouraged to provide appropriate case management services to the applicant. (See 1.4.1.2)

The W-2 agency must document in EA comments in WWP what resources and referrals were provided.

1.4.1.1 Referrals

Referrals may be made at the time of application to address immediate needs or at any time during the EA application process, including during a payment delay. Potential referrals include but are not limited to:

· W-2 emergency payments for W-2 participants awaiting a first W-2 payment (see W-2 Manual 19.1);

· Other resources such as FoodShare, Medicaid/BadgerCare, W-2, and other local services.

EXAMPLE: Traci and her two children applied for and received EA in August for impending homelessness. Traci reapplied for EA the following year in April after her home was damaged by flooding that occurred throughout the region. Traci is not eligible for EA because she received EA within the last 12 months. Although Traci is not eligible for EA, the W-2 agency referred Traci to the county emergency management agency for information about assistance available to properties impacted by flooding.

1.4.1.2 Case Management

The purpose of case management activities is to help an EA group avoid eviction or foreclosure, secure housing, and/or assist the EA Group with resources to resolving the emergency situation. These services may be particularly important for applicants who apply for EA year after year, are having difficulty finding housing, or are found ineligible for EA.

EXAMPLE: Elaine is unemployed and the mother of a 2-year-old daughter, Bria. She has been living with her sister in a small apartment for the past two months, but her sister’s boyfriend is now insisting that they can’t continue to stay. Elaine left Bria’s father following repeated episodes of domestic violence. As a consequence of the disruption their relationship had repeatedly created in her past rental complex, no landlord will offer a positive reference and she’s having difficulty finding housing of her own. The W-2 agency worker informed Elaine of the local Landlord/Tenant Mediation Program who is dedicated to promoting positive relations between tenants and landlords throughout the state. The program provides housing information and referrals, education about rental rights and responsibilities, and access to conflict resolution. The W-2 agency worker also pointed out the Domestic Violence Brochure so that Elaine can decide if it is safe to keep.