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Ohio Works First (OWF) For Kinship Caregivers | Summit County Department Of Job And Family Services

1180 South Main Street, Suite 102, Russell M. Pry Building, Akron, OH 44301

Barrier Free Restrooms|Designated Parking|Full Wheelchair Access|Wheelchair Accessible Building (ramps & main entrance doors).
Eligibility
Offers two (2) types of assistance. Provides assistance for the child only which can be received regardless of the caregivers’ income. Child-Only benefits consist of monetary assistance, and a medical card/insurance. Offers a second type of assistance is provided on behalf of the caregiver(s) and the child(ren). The assistance can include monetary assistance, as well as food stamps, and a medical card/insurance. This type of assistance is dependent upon the caregiver(s)’ income. Assistance is available until the child(ren) reaches 18 years of age, or 21 years of age if the child is in school. Changes in household composition and unreported income could all result in changes to benefit amount. Recipients are responsible for reporting these or any other changes within 10 days of occurrence. Receiving more than a household is entitled to could result in overpayment penalties or charges of fraud.
Required documents
During the interview must provide the following for each household member:
  • Social Security number.
  • Photo ID.
  • Alien registration card (if not a United States citizen).
  • Proof of earned and unearned income.
  • Child support that is paid to someone not living in the household (if applicable).
  • Child support received (if applicable).
  • Proof of disability (if applicable).
Hours
Ohio Benefits Phone Line Hours:
  • To apply for initial benefits or renewal of benefits: Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 3:00pm.
  • For changes or questions: Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 4:00pm.
  • Available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
(800) 573-8080
Voice·

voice | Automated Information Line

Languages
Utilizes language interpretation services.
Application process
  • Call the Ohio Benefits line or visit the website at https://Benefits.ohio.gov for more information, to apply for benefits or to update information.
  • Must submit a completed, signed, and dated application with supporting documentation.
  • Must verify annually.
Fees
No fee to apply.
Service area
Summit County, Ohio
Provides Kinship Caregivers and the children in their care who are eligible to receive OWF, a monthly cash assistance program.
Last assured
04/13/2026
Providing organization
Summit County Department Of Job And Family Services
A local government agency providing public assistance, workforce development, and other social service programs to qualified applicants of Summit County, Ohio.