Cash Assistance

Diversionary work program (DWP)

Diversionary work program is a 4 month program that helps lower-income families find a job. The goal of DWP is to help parents immediately go to work rather than go on public assistance. When most families first apply for cash assistance, they will participate in DWP, however some families may be referred to MFIP.

General assistance (GA)

General assistance program is a program to provide cash payments to persons who do not qualify for federal categorized assistance but meets the State General Assistance requirements.

Minnesota supplemental aid (MSA)

Minnesota supplemental aid is a program to provide payments to aged, blind, or disabled persons to supplement available income.

Housing Support formerly known as Group Residential Housing (GRH)

The Housing Support program pays for room and board for seniors and adults with disabilities who have low incomes. The program aims to reduce and prevent people from living in institutions or becoming homeless.

Emergency assistance / Emergency general assistance (EA / EGA) 

Limited time programs to assist individuals with evictions, utility disconnections, etc.

Minnesota family investment program (MFIP)

Some families may be referred to MFIP when they first apply for assistance or after they finish 4 months of DWP. MFIP helps families transition to economic stability. Parents are expected to work, and are supported in working. Most families can get cash assistance but the typical deadline is 60 months in a lifetime.

2024-2025 County MFIP Biennial Service Agreement

Refugee assistance

The refugee resettlement program coordinates services to assist refugees in transitioning to their life in the United States. These services include resettlement and placement, cash, medical assistance, and employment and social services.