How can service providers more effectively serve the needs of rural clients?
Historically, rural residents have relied more on informal levels of service in keeping with a strong tendency toward self-reliance, something that providers might want to consider when marketing their services. Spatial and financial limitations may necessitate greater efforts toward collaboration across agencies and programs. There are a number of actions that providers can take to promote service coordination within and among rural county and local programs. Providers can set similar program eligibility requirements across programs. Eligibility requirements that factor in the unique needs and characteristics of the rural workforce will help to promote program coordination. For example, easing sanction restrictions and modifying time limits in areas of high seasonal unemployment. Alternative forms of service delivery such as the web, the telephone, and home visits may also benefit rural residents.
