The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) sends this information as posted below:
OKLAHOMA CITY (August 15, 2025) – Oklahoma Human Services is partnering with the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) to support the state’s first-time offender programs (FTOPs) through federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) dollars. This approach allows OJA to redirect more than $500,000 of state funds to other priorities while continuing to provide critical prevention and diversion services for juveniles.
“These programs are about giving young people the tools to make better choices,” said Karen Youngblood, Chair of the OJA Board. “With the support of Oklahoma Human Services, we can fund these programs in a way that maximizes the state’s resources and keeps these vital services available for youth and families.”
FTOPs serve youth identified by law enforcement personnel, court officials, and community partners as having engaged in behaviors that warrant formal intervention but do not require full court involvement. Youth and their parents participate in up to 12 hours of skill-building classes covering communication, anger management, problem solving, decision-making, values, and understanding the consequences of their actions.
In 2024, more than 1,600 Oklahoma juveniles participated in FTOPs. By leveraging TANF funds to support these programs, Oklahoma Human Services and OJA can continue protecting futures and preventing deeper justice system involvement – while freeing up state dollars to serve other needs.
“Funding these programs with TANF is a smarter use of available resources,” said Jeffrey Cartmell, Director of Oklahoma Human Services. “By joining forces on this important initiative, we can continue to support families, prevent deeper involvement of youth in the justice system, and make the most of every dollar as we work together to build a safer, stronger Oklahoma.”
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