Statement of Deborah Noble, Willimantic, Connecticut

My name is Deborah Noble and I am from Willimantic, Connecticut. I am very concerned about the April 5th, 2001 hearing which will be convened by the Subcommittee on Human Resources. The meeting is regarding work requirements in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash welfare programs, as well as other means-tested benefit programs. I ask that you please read this letter and submit it for consideration by the subcommittee on Human Resources and for inclusion in the public record.

I am one of many individuals who has been able to move successfully back into the workforce after being on welfare. I was able to accomplish this only after attending a community college. During my second semester there I was fortunate to have been employed in a work study position as well. Since attending college my family and I have become self-sufficient and are completely free from any sort of public assistance.

I can not emphasize enough the need for education before forcing TANF recipients into the workforce or workfare programs. In addition to that, I would I would ask that the work that one does as a parent be given the respect and consideration it is due.

In conclusion, by being able to attend a community college I learned more than mere academics. I discovered a world of opportunities; opportunities which are now being denied, or at the very least, restricted to most individuals now receiving state and/or federal assistance. Education gives us the tools to build the foundation of a health and prosperous life for ourselves and our families. This opportunity should be granted and encouraged so that these individuals who so desperately need to lift themselves out of poverty are given the building blocks to do so.