Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund (PEAF)

Louisiana families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits through the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) are eligible for an additional $100 cash infusion payment in November 2023 for each eligible household member.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which established a $1 billion Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund (PEAF) to aid needy families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, provides funding for this program.

Between November 2021 and July 2022, Louisiana provided PEAF cash infusions to eligible FITAP and KCSP families in four payments averaging $572. These payments allowed a $250 cash infusion payment for each eligible family member. These cash infusion payments targeted assistance to TANF families facing winter clothing expenses, holiday expenses, summer expenses, school-related expenses, and other essential living needs. Ninety-six percent of the initial Louisiana PEAF award was provided directly to needy FITAP and KCSP recipient families with children to offset economic hardships related to the pandemic.

As a result of unspent PEAF across the nation, Louisiana received a final PEAF award, scheduled for dispersal on November 22, 2023. Because the funding allotted to Louisiana from other states is limited, the fifth and final payment allows for a $100 cash infusion payment for eligible FITAP members only.

The November 2023 issuance is intended to help families purchase technology hardware in the form of a computer, and assist with connectivity and related costs.