PRC is a program that provides aid to families in the form of a voucher to buy items or services that are emergencies and non-recurring. PRC stands for “Prevention, Retention and Contingency” Program. They are issued primarily to help adults get or keep a job or to a limited group of families who meet specific criteria.

Applicants who qualify may receive items and services which help to divert them from public assistance, help to maintain or obtain employment, help to remove barriers leading to neglect and abuse, help to stabilize the family or establish a two-parent family.

This may include uniforms, tools, work wardrobe, car repairs, items to help keep the family in their own home or apartment such as rent payments, utility bills, items for the child such as beds, mattresses, clothing, winter boots. Items and services provided are based on individual family needs – the above items are examples and are not all-inclusive. Total value of services and/or cash payments to a family cannot exceed $1,500 in a 12-month period.

Families living with at least one minor child, pregnant women, or, in some cases, a parent who does not live with his or her child. Except for employment related needs, only families within certain categories can receive PRC services: (1) those with an active case with Children & Family Services, Senior and Adult Services, a homeless program or a domestic violence program; (2) those with a summons to appear in housing court or court-ordered eviction notice or who need utility assistance; and (3) those who have experienced a fire or natural disaster.

You are not eligible if you are: Single individuals who are not pregnant, families with no minor children, non-U.S. citizens or non-qualified aliens, fugitive felons, and those convicted of program fraud – where repayment has not yet occurred.

Your eligibility will be based on your income and household size. See the chart below to see if you are eligible.

At a Neighborhood Family Service Center. If you have a worker, call to make an appointment. If you are not now receiving cash, food, or medical benefits you may apply in person between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday, or call (216) 987-7000 for an appointment for other hours.

You must complete and sign the application below stating the emergency need and items requested. Also, individual and community resources should be explored before items are provided. You may be asked for cost estimates. Benefits will be issued within 30 days of receiving necessary paper work, if found eligible.

Click here to download Application 1685 En Español *NOTE: The Application Forms can only be viewed using Adobe's free Acrobat Reader Software. To download a copy of Acrobat Reader, click on the picture below.

Once you have completed your application, you may submit it by mail or FAX prior to your appointment.

To mail or FAX in your application, click here.

For more information, please call (216) 987 – 7000.