Our Advancing Strategies to Align Programs (ASAP) project helps state-level advocates increase enrollment in work support programs, including Medicaid and SNAP, through more integrated systems. There is strong evidence that work supports improve people’s immediate and long-term health as well as their educational and economic outcomes. Research also shows that receiving the full package of benefits—not just one program—is especially effective.
There is strong evidence that parents’ wellbeing, including physical and mental health and economic security, strongly influences children’s development. Likewise, children’s wellbeing affects parents’ success in school and the workplace. But far too often, public policies divide the needs of parents from their children. That’s why CLASP advances two-generation policies and reforms that address children’s and parents’ needs together as a family. This helps families meet immediate needs while preparing children for future success.