BATAVIA, OH (Aug. 24, 2023) — Food. Transportation. Housing. Mental Health. Education. Employment. Child Care. Respite/Camps/Activities. Social Services – Other. Basic Needs. Medical. Clothing. Services. Other.
Those were identified as the biggest needs when Clermont County Family & Children First asked agencies who work with children, adults and families. Family and Children First responded with a list of resources to meet those needs.
In upcoming weeks, those resources will be shared on Clermont County’s social media channels as part of an effort to educate people about how to meet these needs. Here’s a look at the resources in total, in a Q/A format:
Where can you find food, utilities or clothing for those that don’t qualify for SNAP (food stamps)?
Food pantries and churches will often provide food boxes for those who do not qualify for SNAP. Utilities are often difficult to get assistance with unless the person qualifies for HEAP or PRC funding. Clothing for children can be requested through Give Like A Mother at 513-400-3208 or Impacting Tomorrow provides clothing for adults and children www.impacting tomorrow.com
Where can you find transportation to non-medical or mental health appointments, including transportation for youth without parents available to help?
Transportation is available to medical or mental health appointments through Medicaid Managed Care Plans. Call the number on the back of your card for assistance with arranging the transportation. For medical or mental health appointments for youth under 18 on a Medicaid Managed Care Plan, a parent/guardian is required to accompany the youth on the ride. Families may call Clermont Transportation Connection at 513-732-7433 to ask about the cost for transportation for other reasons.
Who can assist you in finding place to live?
If adults are assigned a Case Manager through a mental health agency or possibly through the adult court system, they may request assistance from their Case Manager. If a youth is involved in OhioRISE, the parent may request assistance from their Care Coordinator. Under the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) may issue a voucher to an eligible family, but CMHA is not permitted to assist in the searching process because any “help” provided would appear to be ‘endorsing’ one landlord over another. The family is to ‘choose’ its own unit. Under Public Housing and CMHA’s Project Based Voucher (PBV) program, the specific units with subsidy are owned by CMHA. The family who is eligible who reaches the top of the list is shown the corresponding vacant unit for suitability.
Are there food pantries in Clermont County who will deliver food?
Medicaid Managed Care Plans will provide transportation to the grocery store or food pantry per their plan. Call your Medicaid Managed Care Plan for details. Additionally, you can call InterParish Ministries at 513-561-3932 if there are extenuating circumstances.
Can I get gas cards to go to the grocery store or medical appointments?
Medicaid Managed Care Plans provide transportation to their customers to medical appointments and also food pantries/grocery stores per the plan. Call the Medicaid Managed Care Plan for details. Additionally, NET (Non-Emergency Transportation) may be requested through Clermont Transportation Connection (rides) by calling 513-732-7433 (press 2 to speak to a Dispatcher) or Department of Job & Family Services (gas cards – call 513-732-8006 for information) for medical appointments for those on Medicaid.
Can I get transportation to an urgent medical appointment if I’m on Medicaid?
Transportation to medical appointments needs to be scheduled days in advance. Call your Medicaid Managed Care Plan to see if transportation is available for an urgent appointment. Additionally, transportation to medical appointments through Clermont Transportation Connection can be scheduled up to 14 days in advance and trips are scheduled on a first come first serve basis. A customer can always call CTC at 513-732-7433 (Press 2 to speak to a Dispatcher) to see if an urgent appointment can be accommodated.
Where can I receive food assistance?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income people and families buy the food they need for healthy living and a balanced diet. SNAP can help stretch food dollars. SNAP eligibility is based on income and resources depending on a person’s age and household size. To apply for SNAP benefits: https://publicassistance.clermontcountyohio.gov/how-do-i-apply/
There are food pantries in most Clermont County communities, often run through local churches or schools. Interparish Ministries has many drive thru food events throughout Clermont County. Check www.ipmfoodpantry.org for upcoming events. Additionally, there are a limited number of food boxes available each week for pick up at the Department of Job & Family Services (2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia). There is also a Department of Job & Family Services/OSU-Extension class that occurs the last Monday of the month at 10 a.m. in Room 103 at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia that allows participants to select items from a food pantry after attending the class.
Are there mental health services for those without insurance?
Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services offers a sliding scale for adults and for those who qualify, there may be no charge for services. For children, there is a sliding scale offered by Child Focus and it is less restrictive with regard to diagnoses.
There is also assistance for individuals who have high deductible insurance plans, for those who qualify.
Are there “second chance” employers?
Ohio Means Jobs has a list of second chance employers. Call OMJ at 513-943-3000. https://bcwworkforce.com/
Can I get my student’s school transcript with grades if fees are owed?
Families can work with the school district’s Resource Coordinator to determine if this is possible.
Are there school supplies available to children who are in need?
Most school districts have events prior to the start of the new school year where school supplies may be available. Additionally, IPM has an event (sign up is required) where they provide school supplies prior to the start of the school year. There is also a week later in the summer where school supplies can be purchased tax-free.
Where can I find affordable, equitable, quality child care?
Families who qualify may be eligible for financial support, or Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC), for children attending licensed and PFCC approved centers. PFCC applications can be found at https://publicassistance.clermontcountyohio.gov/child-care-assistance/ or emailing clermont_childcare@jfs.ohio.gov
4C for Children provides free assistance in locating licensed childcare/preschool/summer camps:
1-800-256-1296 x1330 or https://www.4cforchildren.org/
Where can I find respite for a child/youth with complex needs or autism?
Stepping Stones, Camp Joy and Batavia YMCA have summer camps that serve youth with disabilities. Stepping Stones and Camp Joy have weekend options available during the school year. Autism Connections may have additional information available on camps, call 513-561-2300.
Can I get assistance with car repairs?
For eligible customers, assistance for car repairs may be available per the Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan. Contact Clermont Community Services for details via email at support@cccsi.org
Is there income-based housing for seniors available in Clermont County?
Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority runs an elderly community as part of their Public Housing portfolio – 79 units in Bethel Woods, which is all 1 and 2 bedroom units. Anyone interested in applying for CMHA open wait lists can do so by applying at www.clermontmha.org
Where can I get general transportation?
The best option is to contact Clermont Transportation Connection at 513-732-7433. CTC does require advance notice and payment for non-Medicaid covered transportation.
Is there affordable and safe housing available in Clermont County?
Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority offers a HUD-VASH program, a NED program, a PBV program, a HCV Program, and Public Housing. However, the need is so great in our county that most of the wait lists remain full. Anyone interested in applying for any of CMHA’s open wait lists can do so by applying at www.clermontmha.org
Where can I get adult mental health services?
Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health offers comprehensive treatment services for those without insurance and there are numerous private practice treatment providers throughout the county who accept a variety of insurance plans.
Is there financial assistance for youth to attend driving school or to get their driver’s license?
Youth enrolled and active in CCMEP (Comprehensive Case Management & Employment Program) may be eligible for payment for driving school or a driver’s license. Call OhioMeans Jobs at 513-743-3000 for more information.
Can I get help with my rent or security deposit?
For eligible customers, assistance to pay a security deposit or rent may be available per the Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan. Contact Clermont Community Services via email at support@cccsi.org for details.
Are there home supports available for seniors?
Call Clermont County Senior Services at 513-724-1255.
Are there life skill classes for adolescents available in Clermont County?
OhioMeans Jobs provides support to eligible youth for job skills through CCMEP (Comprehensive Case Management & Employment Program). Call 513-943-3000 for details.
Are there parenting support resources available in Clermont County?
Child Focus provides Parent Enrichment free to families who do not have an open case with Children’s Protective Services. Additionally, there are numerous programs for parents of younger children, i.e. Every Child Succeeds, Early Intervention Service Coordination. Parents can sign up for free online parenting strategies courses at https://www.triplep-parenting.com/oh-en/triple-p/
Where can I find therapeutic services for children/families with trauma?
Child Focus provides therapeutic services to children/families with trauma and Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health provides therapeutic services to adults. Additionally, there is a list of trauma-certified therapists at https://www.tristatetraumanetwork.org/trauma-therapist-listing/
How do I find transportation to school for my student?
Public schools are only required to transport special needs students to school if that service is identified on their IEP under special transportation. Otherwise, school districts must follow the state minimum law for transportation.
Is there assistance available to help with court fines or costs?
The Clermont County Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan is being revised and costs for certain legal fees for custody may be available to eligible customers in the future.
It would be great if there was a centralized location for services in Clermont County.
There are numerous agencies at 2400 Clermont Center Drive in Batavia (Public Assistance, Child Support Enforcement Agency, Family & Children First, WIC, Educational Service Center) and other agencies/services are available on Clermont Center Drive or in the Batavia area.
Are there after-school events for youth engagement?
The Resource Coordinator for each school district should have a list of extracurricular or after-school activities available to youth.
Where can a youth interested in trade or vocational activities learn more about their options?
Eligible youth can work with CCMEP (Comprehensive Case Management & Employment Program) through OhioMeans Jobs. Call 513-943-3000 for more information.
Are there mental health supports and therapy available for transition-aged youth?
Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services has a Transition to Independence Program (TIP) which provides mental health, substance use disorder and co-occurring treatment to transition-aged youth. The program also coordinates care with multiple systems including Children’s Protective Services, Juvenile Court and Juvenile Probation. Call 513-331-5841 to see if a youth may be eligible.
Can I receive assistance with transportation to work or gas cards to get to work?
For those who qualify, gas cards may be available per the Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan. Call OhioMeans Jobs for more information at 513-943-3000.
What is available in Clermont County for those without housing?
For eligible customers, assistance is available to assist in paying for rent or security deposit per the Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan. Contact Clermont Community Services for details via email at support@cccsi.org.
Can I receive assistance with student lunches or fees?
School districts have free and reduced breakfast and lunch options. Inquire with the school district as to the necessary forms that need to be completed.
Is there home-based respite for children with complex medical needs?
Children/youth with complex medical needs may be able to access respite through their Medicaid Managed Care Plan or OhioRISE. Call the Medicaid Managed Care Plan or your OhioRISE Care Coordinator to discuss.
Are there resources for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault?
Call the YWCA at 513-753-7281. Additionally, the Clermont County Prosecutor’s Office has a Victim Assistance program. Call 513-732-7979 or 513-732-7810 to speak to an advocate.
Where can I get assistance with basic needs (including cleaning products, toiletries)?
Some local food pantries have cleaning products and toiletry items upon request. The Department of Job & Family Services/OSU-Extension collaboration has these items in the food pantry that a family may select from after attending a class that is offered on the last Monday of the month 10 a.m. in Room 103 at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia.
Is there help available to pay for funeral expenses?
Contact the Clermont County Coroner’s Office at 513-732-8117 and ask about their indigent program.
Is there assistance for AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices for nonverbal youth?
If a child/youth is eligible with Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the family may be able to request assistance through Family Support Services (FSS) funds. Medicaid or insurance plans may also be of assistance.
Where can I find resources on autism?
Contact Autism Connections at 513-561-2300 or info@autismcincy.org or look online at https://www.autismcincy.org/
Is there help to pay my utilities bill?
For eligible customers, assistance with utilities may be available per the Department of Job & Family Services PRC Plan or HEAP. Contact Clermont Community Services for more information via email at support@cccsi.org
Where can I find trained providers for children with medical conditions?
Children with Medical Handicaps (CMH) at 513 732-7499 may be able to provide assistance
Where can I find after-school programs and summer supports?
There are many after-school and summer camps available in Clermont County (i.e. Batavia YMCA). Clermont Recovery Center does 4-day summer camps at low-income housing communities during the summer which are free to residents who live in the communities. The Boys & Girls Club has programming – call 513-947-9632. The Ohio Afterschool Child Enrichment (ACE) Educational Saving Account program provides qualifying families with a $1,000 credit per child. See https://education/ohio/gov/OhioACE
Where can I receive information on educational advocacy?
The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities provides educational advocacy information. Call 844-382-5452.
Are there mental health services in more rural areas?
Many providers offer telehealth options and are marketing services and providing outreach in rural communities throughout the county.
Is there affordable/safe housing for those with legal charges/evictions?
If a family is being screened for Public Housing or PBV, which are units Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) owns and they act as the owner/property manager, CMHA will do a background screening for prior rental history. However, if someone is denied for their rental history (or for any reason), CMHA gives them a right to an informal review and they can explain what lead to the eviction, etc. Anyone interested in applying for any of CMHA’s open wait lists can do so by applying at www.clermontmha.org
Is there transportation available in rural areas?
Clermont Transportation Connection is available in rural areas and needs to be scheduled in advance. Call 513-732-7433.
Where can I get outpatient treatment for Substance Use Disorder?
Clermont Recovery Center has a day treatment program and offers a variety of group options. Call 513-735-8100 for more information.
Where can I learn more about lifelong education?
Contact vocational schools or OhioMeans Jobs at 513-943-3000 for information.
Is there childcare available for all shifts and weekends?
Little Anderson provides some evening and weekend care. Monday-Saturday 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Call 513-474-7800.
Can undeclared families receive medical insurance?
Undeclared children and families may be eligible for all public assistance programs with verification of status. Call 513-732-7111.
Where can I find free or low-priced everyday clothing for adults?
Impacting Tomorrow can provide clothing to adults. Www.impactingtomorrow.com Goodwill or St Vincent DePaul has clothing for sale and at times, InterParish Ministries will provide clothing vouchers for St. Vincent DePaul.
Where can I find clothes/shoes for school-aged children/youth?
Children/youth can receive outfits through Give Like A Mother. Call 513-400-3208
Is there assistance to get medications for children/youth?
There are often discounts that pharmacies will provide if a family cannot pay for medication. Additionally, the pharmaceutical company can be called to talk about options and samples can be requested from the prescriber.
Is there somewhere I can get baby items until my WIC appointment?
Some food pantries have baby items available if requested. If a child is enrolled in a home visiting program, like Every Child Succeeds, the parent can talk with their Home Visitor.
Where can I find respite for youth with no disabilities?
There are many camps and before and after-school programs available for children without disabilities. The School Resource Coordinator in your school district should be able to provide options. Funding for respite is not available for children without disabilities.
Are there peer navigators available to assist kinship providers with finding resources?
OhioKAN is available to help kinship families navigate the system and locate resources https://ohiokan.jfs.ohio.gov/
Is there assistance to purchase laundry detergent?
Some food pantries will provide laundry detergent when requested. Laundry detergent is available as a choice in the Department of Job & Family Services/OSU-Extension collaborative food pantry when an adult takes a class at JFS on nutrition and budgeting for food. These classes occur the last Monday of the month at 10am in Room 103 at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia.
Where can I get nutrition education?
OSU-Extension provides various classes and opportunities to learn about nutrition. There is a class once a month at the Department of Job & Family Services that focuses on making nutritious meals and making food dollars stretch. The class occurs on the last Monday of the month, 10am in Room 103 at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia.
Where can I find providers for medical or dental appointments?
Medical and dental providers should be able to be obtained by calling your Managed Care Plan directly or by searching on the Managed Care Plan’s website. For those who are veterans, call the VA for assistance. For those without insurance, the application to apply for Medicaid can be completed online https://publicassistance.clermontcountyohio.gov/how-do-i-apply/
Is there assistance available for work clothes for adults?
OhioMeans Jobs may be able to provide work clothes for eligible adults. Call 513-943-3000. Impacting Tomorrow provides clothing to adults and children. Www.impactingtomorrow.com
Where can I find information on local jobs opportunities and training programs?
OhioMeans Jobs has job listings and can provide training to eligible people in a high-demand job. Call OMJ at 513-943-3000. https://bcwworkforce.com/
UPDATE (Jan. 31, 2023) — Extra SNAP (food stamp) benefits will end for all SNAP households beginning in March 2023.
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BATAVIA, OH (Jan. 11, 2023) — While Ohio has extended SNAP (food stamps) emergency allotments as long as federally allowable, February 2023 is the last month recipients will receive them. For more information, see the state’s news release https://jfs.ohio.gov/ocomm/index.stm
Due to a change in federal law, this will mean a loss of as much as $258 per month for some individuals.
To assist those in need, here is a list of free food pantries, meals and groceries in Clermont County: https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/clermont_ohio_food_pantries.html
Also, to help people search for a job or find a training program, OhioMeansJobs — Clermont County is open to the public. OMJ provides free phone use, copies, printers, fax machines, etc.
As of today, 22,206 people are receiving SNAP benefits in Clermont County. (Note: 47,163 people in Clermont County are on Medicaid, which will have changes in May.)
Here are examples of how the change will impact people:
BATAVIA, OH (Nov. 21, 2022) — Fifty families served by the Clermont County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS) will enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, thanks to the generosity of the Tree of Life Church in Montgomery.
Shalena Wilson (left) of the church and Sanna Gast of DJFS helped coordinate the effort. The church has donated food boxes for Clermont County families for a half-dozen years. Each box contains a complete Thanksgiving meal and a gift card for a turkey. Wilson delivered the boxes in a U-Haul truck this morning.
“It’s more important this year because, with the high food prices, a lot of families are going through hard times,” Gast said. She noted that all of the boxes are spoken for, and five additional families will get meals due to donations by the Board of County Commissioners and others in the community.
The majority of families are served by Children’s Protective Services, with several assisted by Ohiomeansjobs Clermont County and public assistance.
Gast added that food boxes are being accepted to help families during the upcoming holiday season. They may be dropped off 9 a.m.-noon on Fridays starting Nov. 4 at 2400 Clermont Center Drive, South Entry, Batavia. All boxes need to be marked with “Sanna Gast Food Box for CPS families.”
Items to include: Tuna-2 cans, Chicken-2 cans, Chili-2 cans, Spaghetti Sauce-2 jars or cans, Spaghetti-4 boxes, Complete Pancake Mix, Pancake Syrup, Fruit-2 packages of fruit cups, Green Beans-2 cans, Corn-2 cans, Potatoes-2 cans, Instant Mashed Potatoes-2 boxes or pouches, Cereal-2 boxes, Instant Oatmeal-1 box, Macaroni & Cheese-4 boxes or microwaveable cups, Soup-2 cans, Cup of Noodle Instant Soup-2 cups, Ramen Noodles-4 packs, Granola Bars-1 box, Powdered Drink Mix-1 container, Peanut Butter-2 jars, Jelly-2 jars
The Board of County Commissioners last week welcomed new Department of Job and Family Services Director Susan Walther. She comes to Clermont County after serving as director of Warren County Children Services for five years.
Walther began her career as a caseworker at Hamilton County Children Services, 1992-2002. She served as a caseworker, supervisor and deputy director in Warren County Children Services before becoming director.
Walter holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Science in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University in Salt Lake City.
BATAVIA, OH – Clermont County’s Department of Job and Family Services will hold a Job Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 11-12 in the Educational Services Center, 2400 Clermont Center Drive, Batavia, OH 45103.
DJFS is looking for people in multiple departments:
* Child Protective Services
* Public Assistance
* Child Support Enforcement
* OhioMeansJobs
These jobs offer:
* Competitive Pay
* Paid Sick Time
* Paid Vacation after one year
* Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
* Tuition Assistance
* Public Employees Retirement System
* Personal Leave
* Ten Paid Holidays
Clermont County residents who have fallen behind on rent and utility payments (except telephone, cable and Internet) due to the pandemic can get financial help through a new program. Last month, the Board of County Commissioners approved a Clermont County Job and Family Services’ contact with Clermont County Community Services to administer the Emergency Rental Assistance Fund. Clermont County received $6.1 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for renters through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. Eligible renter households may receive up to 12 months of past-due payment assistance with direct payments made to the landlords and utility providers. Landlords may apply on behalf of the renter with their consent. Funding expires on Dec. 31.
Here, a landlord shares its experience with the program:
Q: Where are Thomaston Woods and Thomaston Meadows located in Clermont County? How many people live there? Ages?
A: Thomaston Woods is located at 1460 Thomaston Drive in Amelia, Ohio off of Amelia-Olive Branch Road. Thomaston Woods is an affordable living community created by the St. Thomas Housing Corporation and is managed by Episcopal Retirement Services. We offer numerous programs, services and activities that empower residents to not only have a greater quality of life now, but also to help them achieve their larger goals in the future.
We have 100 apartments at Thomaston Woods with over 300 residents ranging from newborns to 80+ and everyone in-between. We pride ourselves with being a welcoming community where families support each other.
We also are fortunate to have Thomaston Meadows which houses 13 residents, ages 62 and older for older adults with limited income. The Meadows opened in 2005.
Q: How has the emergency rental and utility assistance program helped Thomaston Meadows?
A: The emergency rental and utility assistance program allows our families to move forward with dignity and integrity. No one was prepared for COVID-19 and what damage it would create. The emergency rental and utility assistance programs have kept families solvent instead of being evicted or becoming homeless. Not only did our residents lose jobs through permanent or temporary layoffs, but a number of our residents became caregivers for family members. With loss of income, the emergency assistance program kept families together while giving the adult residents time to get back on their feet.
We can’t tell you how many times we had families say to us, “I’m used to helping others. I’m not used to asking for help.” Many of the families, who received the grant, were residents who were always timely with their rent payments throughout the years. COVID-19 threw a huge curveball and residents were caught off guard with losing their jobs, being in quarantine, testing “positive” for COVID-19 and or being their children’s teacher.
All of the grant recipients were grateful for this opportunity. This program allowed our residents to stay in their homes and avoid eviction. The money has also allowed them to focus on other important expenses such as car repairs or daily living needs. Some of our residents have returned to work, or have new jobs that give them flexibility.
Q: How many residents benefit from the program – and how? (Please give some examples)
A: Eleven families have been approved and two are waiting for approval. The majority are single or single kinship mothers with children.
The world doesn’t stop when COVID-19 happened. One family stepped-in to provide caregiving services for a much beloved, elderly family member when paid caregivers stopped coming to her home. She was someone in the last stages of her life, and the possible caregivers were concerned with giving her or catching COVID-19. The family member left her job out of love and was able to provide support until the end of this family member’s life.
Several of the families receiving the grant are “kinship,” parents. They are raising other children in addition to their own children. Some are housing their grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. They are not receiving financial assistance for these other members and are used to working to support their family. These families were especially hit hard during COVID-19.
A number of the residents had hours drastically cut, because their business heavily relied on professionals going to their offices. When work became virtual, their services were not required. Not only does this assistance help these residents stay in their apartments, but it also gives them time to decide if they need to move out of their current jobs and into something that could provide more opportunities.
Q: How has COVID affected Thomaston Woods and its residents?
A: COVID-19 has impacted many of our Thomaston Woods individuals and families in an unsuspecting way. Like other Ohioans and US citizens, they were not prepared when shutdowns happened in March 2020. Some residents were permanently laid off from their jobs while others had substantial time eliminated from their work weeks. Others were forced to self-quarantine because a co-worker tested positive for COVID-19. Some were put on indefinite layoffs. There was high uncertainty if they would have a job when companies re-opened. All of these factors resulted in loss of income. Unemployment often took weeks to months for our residents to receive. Consequently, our families were struggling even more to pay their rent, utilities, and daily living expenses.
Many of our families have children. When the schools closed, a number of the parents were forced to take off of work to supervise, support, and assist their children during the virtual school day. Parents were thrown into a role of being their children’s teachers. Parents realized that they needed to budget for breakfast and lunches. Although this is something that many of us might take for granted, meals can make a huge impact on a budget.
Q: How did you hear about the program?
A: Our community manager received the information through Clermont County Job and Family Services. We immediately communicated to our Thomaston Woods families through a group email. We also placed flyers on the residents’ home for several weeks and posted the information in public places and our Community Message Board. Because there was a lot of information that the residents needed to provide, we encouraged families to privately meet with us. In turn, we worked closely with the Clermont County Support Services staff to make sure that families had the required information to qualify. Sometimes it took days and weeks to have everything in place.
When a new program opened up in 2021, LeAnn Townes communicated this information to us. Everyone with this program has been very instrumental with processing the grant money.
Q: Anything else you would like to add?
A: The staff at Clermont County Support Services has been incredibly kind, communicative, and helpful in getting grants though. Their paperwork and requests can be overwhelming. Even so, they are exceptional with their follow-up and making sure that they have what they need from our residents. The staff is very respectful to our Thomaston residents and staff alike. It has been a pleasure working with them.
On the resident side, each resident has worked very hard to get in the information that they need. At first, many residents were a little embarrassed. What this program has taught us all is that are times when we might need help. It’s OK to accept help when times get tough. We truly believe that the residents, who qualified for rental assistance, will pay it forward. Some already have.
BATAVIA, OH (Feb. 10, 2021) — Clermont County residents who have fallen behind on rent and utility payments due to the pandemic can get financial help through a new program.
The Board of County Commissioners today approved a Clermont County Job and Family Services’ contact with Clermont County Community Services to administer the Emergency Rental Assistance Fund. Clermont County received $6.1 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for renters through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
This program covers rental payments that are late and overdue as well as utility payments, including gas, electric, fuel oil, trash removal, internet service and water and sewer.
Applicants must have filed their taxes this year, as their 1040 will be used to verify income eligibility. They must have been unemployed due to COVID-19 or experienced a reduction in income due to the pandemic.
Eligible renter households may receive up to 12 months of past due payment assistance with direct payments made to the landlords and utility providers. Landlords may apply on behalf of the renter with their consent.
Clermont County residents can apply by emailing Support@CCCSI.org or by going to www.CCCSI.org .
“Thank you to the county employees who worked diligently on the specifics of this program,” said Claire Corcoran, president of the Board of County Commissioners. “This funding will not only benefit renters who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the landlords who have been impacted by the loss of income.”
Commissioner David Painter said: “This will bring much-needed relief to many families. Additionally, this will help avoid future eviction filings that would have otherwise overwhelmed our local courts.”
“I’m glad we were able to help those struggling to make ends meet due to the pandemic,” Commissioner Bonnie Batchler added.
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BATAVIA, OH (Dec. 19, 2019) — More than 100 Clermont County youth from low-income families will continue to get support to help them stay in school and plan a career.
County Commissioners on Dec. 11 approved an agreement with Pressley Ridge for the provision of a Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program for a maximum of $695,000, effective for the period of Oct. 1-Sept. 30, with the option to renew for two additional one-year periods. Pressley Ridge is expanding services formerly offered by EasterSeals TriState.
Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program is designed for youth ages 14 through 24 who may have some obstacle to success in education or employment. Pressley Ridge provides services to youth eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) services based on family income and having a minor in the family.
Fourteen different services are offered, including:
“These services are offered throughout the county and typically can be addressed by meeting youth in or near their schools,” said Ted Groman, deputy director of OhioMeansJobs in Clermont County. “We also meet youth in local libraries or other public centers.”
Services are year-round with education being a large focus during the school year and work experience being a key service during summer break.
Eligibility for the program is conducted by Job and Family Services. Those interested may contact OhioMeansJobs Clermont for further information. (Currently, the county is at full capacity for services.)
BATAVIA, OH (Nov. 19, 2019) – Timothy Dick, 48, of Union Township has been promoted to director of the Clermont County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS). The Clermont County Board of County Commissioners appointed Dick to the position on Nov. 4. He had served as interim director of DJFS for five months.
DJFS is comprised of four divisions, including Public Assistance (Medicaid, Child Care, SNAP Food assistance), Child Support Enforcement, Ohio Means Jobs (training and connecting unemployed and under-employed citizens with local businesses with hiring needs) and Children’s Protective Services. Collectively, DJFS administers about 100 programs with 50 major Federal and State funding streams.
“Having a stable, well trained staff is essential to effectively administer so many different programs,” Dick said. “Equally as important is having public and private community partners that support and collaborate with our different divisions, so we can understand the needs in the community and share knowledge about available resources for the citizens of Clermont County.”
Dick was with Children’s Protective Services for 12 years, the last 10 years as the deputy director. He went into the Army upon completing high school. After his enlistment, he joined the Ohio National Guard while he went through college. He was in the service for eight years. He graduated from Northern Kentucky University with Bachelor’s Degrees in Justice Studies and Sociology. After graduation, he started working for Clermont County Juvenile Court Judge Stephanie Wyler. He worked for Judge Wyler for 10 years as a probation officer before transferring to Children’s Protective Services.
David Painter, president of the Clermont County Board of Commissioners, said: “Based on his experience as interim director and long history in social services, Tim will do a great job serving Clermont County in this key role. He oversees a department that helps many Clermont County residents through its Child Support Division, Children’s Protective Services, Public Assistance Services and Ohio Means Jobs Clermont operations. We feel fortunate to have such a capable leader in this position.”
“We were very fortunate to have such an experienced and dedicated leader right here in Clermont County for this vital role,” County Commissioner Claire Corcoran said. “The Department of Job and Family Services has a major impact on many individuals and families in our county. The Child Support Division collects about $36 million annually on behalf of 48,000 individuals. Children’s Protective Services investigates more than a thousand cases of child abuse and neglect per year, works with 95 foster families, and seeks adoption for 15 or more kids at a time. Public Assistance Services helps more than 35,000 Medicaid recipients, 13,000 food stamp clients, 400-plus households receiving Ohio Works First cash assistance, and 500-some families getting subsidized child care.”
“I’ve gotten to know Tim Dick during his time with Clermont County Department of Job and Family Services – and have found him very professional, knowledgeable and dedicated to his work,” Commissioner Ed Humphrey said. “The Department of Job and Family Services plays a big role in helping many people throughout the county through its four divisions. We wish Tim the best as he takes on this huge responsibility, one that he’s very capable of handling.”
“Tim has proven himself over the years as a very capable leader,” County Administrator Thomas Eigel said. “He brings a wealth of first-hand experience as well as compassion for the vulnerable population that the Department of Job and Family Services assists every day. He will do a great job in this important position, leading a department that touches the lives of thousands of Clermont County residents.”
