Transitional Jobs Program

The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute conducted an HIA to inform a decision on the status of the Wisconsin Transitional Jobs Program during the spring 2013 session that will shape the 2013-2015 biennial state budget. The HIA focused on the immediate health effects of changes in income related to employment, such as diet, alcohol and tobacco use, and family cohesion, as well as long-term outcomes including chronic disease, mental health, and child well-being. The HIA found that renewal of the Transitional Jobs Program would likely have a positive effect on immediate health indicators. For instance, 28% of survey respondents reported an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption since starting in the Transitional Jobs Program, and 22% of survey respondents said they spent more time reading with their children. The HIA made several recommendations, including focusing on creating lasting employment outcomes for participants in the Transitional Jobs Program after subsidized employment ends, and assuring priority to applicants with children, while not making parenthood an eligibility requirement.