“Ending the Scavenger Hunt: A Guide for Better Supportive Services Under WIOA” describes a proactive and cost-controlled approach to supportive services under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, or WIOA, which is America’s most consistent source of workforce development funding.

Costs such as childcare and transportation often prevent workers from entering or completing WIOA programs. Traditionally, the federal government and the entities that implement these programs use a “scavenger hunt” approach that requires showing workers can’t get help elsewhere before WIOA funds these needs. If workers make it through this gauntlet, they may get sent on another scavenger hunt to find services they can afford using small stipends and vouchers from workforce providers.

This guide, produced by JOBS THAT WORK Solutions, offers an alternative approach. It describes how WIOA allows a broader range of options on supportive services than typically allowed and offers a proactive, cost-controlled approach meant to provide immediate answers to the human needs that can keep workers from economic mobility.

You can download the guide below. Note: Nothing in this guide should be construed as legal advice. Your organization should get the U.S. Department of Labor’s approval before using this strategy on DOL-funded projects.

The following documents are tools that workforce boards can use to implement the concepts in the guide, including a worksheet for determining the fit of this approach with the workforce board’s issues and area.