The TAFDC and EAEDC Programs

The Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) program provides financial assistance and employment-related services to families with dependent children. The TAFDC program is subject to appropriation and is administered by the Department in accordance with M.G.L. c. 118 and other relevant statutes and the rules, regulations and policies. TAFDC regulations implement St. 1995, c. 5. TAFDC seeks to integrate clients into the work force and break the cycle of poverty. The major program objectives include: (1) requiring work and individual responsibility; (2) making public assistance transitional in nature by assisting families in crisis without allowing welfare to become a way of life; (3) maintaining and strengthening family life; and (4) encouraging teenage parents to live with their families or in supportive living situations and obtain basic educational achievements. The Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) Program provides financial assistance to qualified elderly and disabled persons, participants in MRC programs, and certain families who meet the program requirements. EAEDC is subject to appropriation and is administered by the Department in accordance with M.G.L. c. 117A and other relevant statutes and the rules, regulations and policies. The authoritative text of the regulations is published by the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Copies of the regulations are available to the public at the Department's area offices.