What is T.A.N.F.
In 2005, The Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians were designated to implement and administer the Tribal TANF program for Indian Families living on the Soboba Indian Reservation and within the City of Riverside. Tribal TANF is a federal and state funded program that provides time-limited assistance to needy families with children in an effort for those children to be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives. The Tribal TANF program was created by Native Americans to provide cash aid assistance and supportive services to meet the specific needs of Native American families. Tribal TANF is designed with the flexibility to address and focus on a variety of cultural and traditional needs.
As a Sovereign nation, our mission is to assist American Indian families and future generations to reach their fullest potential in securing economic stability while encouraging wellness in the family. Soboba Tribal TANF strives to provide welfare related services to eligible Native American families who meet all STTP requirements in an equitable and fair method according to customs and traditions.
"The main success of the Soboba Tribal TANF program is being able to keep a hands-on approach with all tribal TANF participants, which has helped the Soboba tribal TANF program not only reach but also exceed the federally mandated work participation rate."
"One of the greatest elements of the tribal TANF program is that it allows for Native children who would normally be lost in the foster care system to be cared for in their homes or in the homes of their relatives. These children qualify for assistance and services through the tribal TANF program. As part of the program we provide these children and their caretakers with education and learning assessments, cultural programs, and job skills training in a positive and empowering environment."
Shonta Chaloux - Executive Director
Another key to the program's success is continuously educating and training staff, which ensures that everyone from the direct line staff to administrators understands the program's goals, policies, procedures, and requirements.
