Cash Programs
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and Diversionary Work Program (DWP):
The Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP, is the state’s welfare reform program for low-income families with children. MFIP helps families move to work and focuses on helping families. It includes both cash and food assistance. When most families first apply for cash assistance, they will participate in the Diversionary Work Program or DWP. This is a four month program that helps parents go immediately to work rather than receive welfare.
Some families may be referred to MFIP when they first apply for assistance or after they finish four months of DWP. MFIP helps families transition to economic stability. Parents are expected to work, and are supported in working. Most families can get cash assistance for only 60 months.
Refugee Cash Assistance:
The refugee resettlement program coordinates services to assist refugees in making the transition to life in the United States. The RCA program provides cash assistance to refugees who are ineligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or MFIP for up to 8 months after arrival in the United States. Only refugee’s as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) are eligible.
General Assistance (GA):
The General Assistance (GA) program provides cash assistance for single, unemployed adults wih out children, including people who are elderly, ill, injured or otherwise incapacitated.
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA):
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) is a state-funded supplement for people who receive SSI.