5 DES Programs You Never Knew Existed

When you think of DES, you may be familiar with some of our most common services like Nutrition Assistance (formally known as the food stamp program), Cash Assistance, Unemployment Insurance and Child Support, for example. But as the Human Services agency for the State of Arizona, did you know that DES provides more than 40 different programs and services to those in need? From entrepreneurship for individuals who are visually impaired to tuberculosis control, there’s a myriad of services available. Listed below are just a few of the programs of which you may not be aware.

Business Enterprise Program

The DES Rehabilitation Services Administration provides several services for individuals with disabilities to reach their potential in the workplace. One such service, the Business Enterprise Program, provides a unique opportunity for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to become entrepreneurs. Participants operate their own merchandising businesses, including vending and food service operations, and create jobs within their communities.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Employment and Training

Through the Nutrition Assistance program, nutritious meals can be provided to individuals and families. But the program goes beyond groceries. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Employment and Training (SNA E&T) provides participants the opportunity to find employment by engaging in work-related activities. Through training, job search activities, and community service, participants can find their way to self-sufficiency.

Senior Medicare Patrol

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries. A component of SHIP, the Senior Medicare Patrol is a team of volunteers working with DES to educate our aging community to reduce fraud, warn against scams, and safeguard Medicare and Medicaid for the people who are supported by them.

Trade Adjustment Assistance

We live and work as a part of a global community, and as trade and infrastructure changes around the world, import and production shifts can affect your workplace and your place within it. Trade Adjustment Assistance exists for workers who were laid off or threatened with layoff due to foreign competition or outsourcing of jobs to another country. TAA connects with trade-affected workers to help them return to suitable employment as quickly as possible.

Tuberculosis Control

Although the Arizona Department of Health Services oversees the Tuberculosis Control program, DES plays an important role in assisting those who are certified unemployable as a result of communicable tuberculosis. Those who are eligible can receive cash assistance to meet their basic needs.