Graphs of AFDC and "W-2" Caseloads and Unemployment Rates in 72 Wisconsin Counties: 1986-1998

Abstract

The Employment and Training Institute prepared graphs of AFDC (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) and “W-2” (“Wisconsin Works,” the replacement family income support program using federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funds) caseloads along with unemployment rates by county for the period from July 1986 through December 1998 when Wisconsin implemented its welfare reform initiatives. The graphs show the monthly unemployment rates and AFDC (and "W-2" TANF support) caseloads for each of Wisconsin's 72 counties. The ETI evaluations of Wisconsin welfare reform efforts during the period from 1987-1991 showed the strong impact of a rapidly improving labor market, which accounted for most of the caseload reduction during the 1986-1991 period. Additional months of AFDC and unemployment data are presented for the period 1991-1998, but statistical testing has not been conducted for this most recent period