Michigan's MOST (Michigan Opportunity and Skills Training) program demonstrates the effectiveness of employment and training requirements for recipients of public assistance. A recent evaluation showed that AFDC recipients who participated in MOST had incomes 43 percent higher than those who did not. MOST participants also spent less time on public assistance. Clearly, the program is good for participants who move into jobs and for taxpayers who support fewer public assistance recipients.

Education Designed for Gainful Employment (EDGE) is an exciting initiative which brings more federal dollars to Michigan and provides public assistance families the education and employment skills they need to compete in the job market. EDGE is a cooperative effort between the Department of Social Services and Education and local school districts. It is an educational and vocational program designed to improve basic academic and job skills. Job development and placement assistance for successful participants is required. Supportive services in the form of transportation and child care are an essential part of the EDGE concept.

EDGE is especially designed to reach those recipients without high school diplomas--the same people who are at risk of long-term welfare dependency.

In the fall of 1991, EDGE operated in two counties, Washtenaw and Genesee, with a total enrollment of about 300 students. An additional 17 school districts began EDGE programs in January 1992 with an estimated enrollment of 2,000. By the fall of 1992 approximately 6000 AFDC recipients will be actively participating in this program leading to greater family self-sufficiency.