BSF works with state/local partners to develop or refine interventions to promote healthy marriage among interested unwed parents at or near the birth of their child.

This brief looks at child welfare agencies' reliance on kin, that is, relatives, to care for children who may otherwise need to be in state custody. In most states, these agencies use voluntary kinship arrangements on a fairly limited basis when…

Mentoring programs have a positive affect on improving outcomes for youth; however, there are few programs available for youth with disabilities. This article outlines the benefits of mentoring and reviews accommodations that can be made to…

This issue brief highlights key facts about the impact of substance abuse on welfare reform and TANF recipients and describes innovative state welfare program attempting to lower barriers to employment and self-sufficiency.This brief is available…

This issue brief examines changes to prescription drug benefit coverage in large employer plans and implications for a Medicare prescription drug benefit. The brief is available on the National Health Policy Forum's Web site.

Contrary to expectations, recent leavers are no more disadvantaged than those at the start of welfare reform, according to this Urban Institute report. Researchers caution, however, that States have considerable work ahead if they are to help…

Three-city study from Johns Hopkins University examines who is affected by sanctions and case closings and why.

This issue brief by the Welfare Information Network discusses the challenges to self-sufficiency and employment facing low-income mothers with criminal records. The brief provides strategies, best practices, and resource contacts to effectively…

This issue brief by the Institute for Community Inclusion examines how welfare reform affected Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) caseworkers in Massachusetts and describes the impact of these reforms on the lives of people with…

This issue brief, written by the National Center for Children in Poverty, addresses the needs of welfare parents experiencing (either singly or in combination) domestic violence, substance abuse and serious mental health issues. Children of these…