A high-level primer that explains what it takes to stand up and operate an open-source, one-way government notification service for sending text messages and emails.
Minnesota is a good example of an organization that started small in its drive to integrate benefits programs. For instance, its recent statewide rollout of its online integrated benefit application website, MNbenefits.mn.gov, started as a pilot in 2020 with Code for America. The pilot encompassed two counties including Hennepin County, where Minneapolis is located. The pilot later expanded to four counties, then 16 and a tribal nation. The final roll out, which took 12 months to implement, included the state’s 87 counties and three tribal nations.
This guide highlights approachable ideas for state and local public benefits agencies to improve applications, renewals, and correspondence. As outlined in this resource, even small improvements can be transformative for residents and caseworkers alike.
A curated toolkit of plain-language writing resources, training, and guidance aimed at helping government and public-service staff create accessible, easily understood communications.
A practical toolkit that guides teams through designing and building accessible forms in print and PDF formats that are usable by people with disabilities and meet accessibility standards.
A practical toolkit that provides plain-language writing resources, checklists, and guidance to help government and public-service teams write content that is clear, accessible, and centered on community needs.
A plain-language overview explaining how federal law regulates automated calls and text messages to the public, including when consent is required and who is exempt.
A practical guide for government teams on how to design, test, and run effective public text message campaigns for benefits and service communications.
This Urban Institute report highlights how immigrant and mixed-status families continued to avoid safety net programs in 2023 due to lingering fears around the public charge rule.
