H.O.P.E.
Initiative
H.O.P.E. believes financial literacy can drive economic growth and empowerment so each family can make strategic plans for their future. Participants in our program will gain tools necessary to advance their specific financial goals. Access to employment training and workforce readiness opportunities and career advancing resources will drive success goals for families.
Our program team and community partners will execute holistic plans that guide and assist families along this journey from goal setting to accomplishments and achievements. HOPE will pursue alongside our families building their confidence with concentrated consistency and compassion that success is the only option.
Eligibility:
HOPE Initiative provides services to income eligible families. Our income guidelines are established by the Department of Health and Human Services. Families who receive TANF and SNAP, reside in the city limits, and have a child(ren) under the age of 18 residing in the home are categorically eligible for the program.
From Potential to Professional
CAO of WNY’s HOPE Initiative is a pilot program with strategic activities designed to enhance and advance family’s access to economic and employment resources. Our focus is on financial literacy, workforce development and readiness, with personal and professional goals setting for a holistic approach to training and employment.
Our program focuses on gaining skills and putting them to practical use. We encourage employers to pay close attention to our participants as they will be newly equipped to join the workforce. We are committed to eliminating barriers families experience as they move forward towards their economic and employment goals.
Dr. Melanie Porter
Sr. Program Manager
Resources
H.O.P.E. Initiative resources will be found here as they are released.
Q&A
Who is eligible to participate?
HOPE Initiative provides services to income eligible families. Our income guidelines are established by the Department of Health and Human Services. Families who receive TANF and SNAP, reside in the city limits, and have a child(ren) under the age of 18 residing in the home are categorically eligible for the program.
Will participating in the program impact my public benefits?
NO. Income eligible participants receiving social service benefits will not lose any benefits while in the program. Eligibility requirements established by the Department of Social Services are to be maintained through the Department of Social Services.
What documentation do I need to qualify?
Participants need to provide documentation of income of all adults in the household. Income statements can include but are not limited to: paystubs, SSI/SSD award letters, pension statements, child support, etc.
Participants need to provide documentation for all residents of the household. Proof of child(ren) include birth certificates, SS card, or health insurance cards. Adults should provide photo ID (drivers license, non-driver ID, passport, etc).
Participants need to provide proof of residency. Rental agreement, utility bill, bank statement with current address.
What is the benefit of the HOPE Initiative Program?
The HOPE Initiative is a pilot program that will incentivize efforts of employment search and workforce readiness. Participants in the program will attend workshops and trainings to advance personal and professional skills. Participants will work with Life and Career Coaches to set and achieve goals. This program is designed to provide incentives that encourage active participation and achievement.