Program Details
Connecticut’s Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) program helps parents gain the skills needed to obtain meaningful employment and become independent of assistance. The program is administered by the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) and the five Workforce Development Boards (WDBs).
The JFES program emphasizes a work first approach. Job search and both unsubsidized and subsidized employment activities are combined with education and training. Every participant is assigned to a case manager who provides one-on-one case management, assistance with applying for childcare subsidies and transportation needs, as well as referrals to a network of community support providers.
The JFES program emphasizes a work first approach. Job search and both unsubsidized and subsidized employment activities are combined with education and training. Every participant is assigned to a case manager who provides one-on-one case management, assistance with applying for childcare subsidies and transportation needs, as well as referrals to a network of community support providers.
About the Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) Unit
JFES Participant Case Management Process
The Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) program provides employment services such as job search assistance and skills training and employment services to time-limited recipients of Temporary Family Assistance (TFA). To receive TFA in Connecticut, families need to apply for eligibility online. Once DSS determines a family is eligible for TFA, participants will be referred to the JFES program unless there are medical or other program exemptions determined by DSS. All TFA participants who are subject to time limits are required to participate in employment services.
After the JFES program referral, the next step for the participants involves attending a JFES Program orientation session either virtually or in person at an American Job Center. Following the orientation, participants are assigned dedicated JFES case managers to assist with employment and support services.
Some JFES participants may qualify for further education and training such as on-the-job training, occupational skills training, adult basic education, GED preparation, and English for speakers of other languages.
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The Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) is not responsible for the contents of pages referenced through links on this page. The responsibility for content rests with the organizations that are providing the information. DOL is providing these websites as a courtesy to its customers and does not specifically endorse these services or products. DOL is not responsible for the accessibility to persons with disabilities of any off-site pages referenced through links.
Contact Information and Location
Eligibility for the JFES program is only determined by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS). Interested individuals need to be referred to the JFES program by DSS.
Anyone interested in applying for Temporary Assistance (TFA) benefits or the JFES program should contact the DSS Client Information and Benefits Center. Persons with speech or hearing difficulties should call the TDD/TTY number. Follow the prompts to get the information you need.
DSS Client Information and Benefits Center:
1-855-626-6632
For persons with speech or hearing difficulties:
TDD/TTY 1-800-842-4524