Harrison County JFS expands PRC plan to cover appliance replacement

Deb Knight, director of Harrison County Jobs & Family Services, appeared before county commissioners at their Aug. 24 meeting to provide an update on the bi-annual Prevention, Retention and Contingency plan.

The PRC program is designed to help Harrison County families with “specific needed supports” in line with the four purposes of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Knight said the plan is funded by TANF and must be updated every two years with community input, then approved by the commissioners.

She said the proposed updates were developed through online surveys and staff input. While the plan does not include direct “me” services, it now expands an appliance replacement program. Previously, assistance was available only after a fire or natural disaster. Under the update, families can seek help replacing major appliances such as a refrigerator if one fails.

The clothing program remains in place, but it can only be offered if funding allows. Other supports include help with uniforms, gas money to get to work until the first paycheck arrives, and other job-related needs.

Eligibility is based on 200% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, Knight said, that currently means a maximum monthly income of $6,275. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or qualified aliens, Harrison County residents, and part of an assistance group.

The PRC plan follows four core purposes: to assist needy families so that children can be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives; to end dependence on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work and marriage; to prevent and reduce out-of-wedlock pregnancies; and to encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families.