Luzerne County Community College - Center for Student Support and Intervention

KEYS

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What is KEYS?

The Keystone Education Yields Success (KEYS) Program is a collaboration program between the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges. KEYS is a referral program available to individuals who are receiving either TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) benefits and are enrolled or intend to enroll at Luzerne County Community College OR who need their high school equivalency (GED).

The KEYS program can provide academic, personal and career support services to participants throughout their educational journey. TANF students enrolled in KEYS can count class and study time as their work activity hourly requirements set forth by the county assistance office.

The KEYS Program can provide basic needs support services for students while enrolled at the community college. Students see additional benefits through KEYS as they build relationships with program facilitators and peers, are connected to resources in the college and community, and break barriers and cycles of poverty.

KEYS works by building relationships, connecting students and breaking down barriers!

New students can ask for more information about the KEYS program by submitting a request (HERE). A staff member will either call or email you within two (2) business days of receiving your inquiry.

Eligibility*

You may be eligible* for the KEYS program if you:

Are a student receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits (Cash Assistance); OR
Are a student receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (Food Stamps; AND
Want additional training and education to obtain employment

*Eligibility is determined by the County Assistance Offices

KEYS Support Services

Support Services are available for KEYS students to minimize barriers and allow them to attend classes regularly, study and complete assignments to achieve academic progress and success.

Based upon eligibility determined by the County Assistance Office (CAO), assistance is available to request supportive services, such as:

Childcare
Transportation
Mileage
Payment for Public Transportation
Motor vehicle operator fees (TANF only)
Motor vehicle repair costs
Textbooks
Education & training fees

Additional Support Services Include:

College and Community resource information
Academic Support
Peer Support
Career Counseling
Tutoring
On-Site Food Pantry
Personal Hygiene & Laundry Bundles upon request
Laptop Loan Program

***Certain restrictions may apply based on eligibility and funding***

How to Enroll in KEYS

Any student who meets eligibility criteria (TANF or SNAP) and is interested in a referral to the KEYS program should contact the KEYS office at (570) 740-0406 or 1-800-377-5222 (ext. 7406) or stop in the office to make an appointment in Building 9, suite 904.

Interested students must complete a Reverse Referral Form and return it to the KEYS office for program consideration.

Your local county assistance office makes all KEYS referral determinations for eligible TANF or SNAP students. Upon receipt of the referral, the KEYS office will contact students to complete the enrollment and orientation process.