Commissioners support program to help county families in need
News | Published on March 17, 2026 at 3:15pm GMT+0000 | Author: Tucker Henderson
0MFIP program includes nutrition, housing support
By Tom Hintgen
Otter Tail County Correspondent
County commissioners, in late February 2026, approved three Employment Services Specialist positions to support the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and its work to assist families throughout Otter Tail County.
MFIP in Otter Tail County provides cash, food assistance and employment services to low-income families with children to foster financial stability. The program is aministered by Otter Tail County’s Human Services department. Those interested can contact the county Human Services offices at (218) 998-8150.
County commissioners see the need to provide money, through the MFIP program, to families who don’t have enough resources to pay for basic needs such as food, clothing and rent. MFIP defines a family as one or two parents living with their child or children under 18.
The age limit is 19 for children who are in school full time. A family could include biological children, step-children, adopted children and children of relatives.
When most families first apply for cash assistance, they will participate in the Diversionary Work Program (DWP). This is a 4-month program that helps parents go immediately to work. Some families may be referred to MFIP when they first apply for assistance or after they finish four months of DWP.
“We appreciate that MFIP helps families transition to economic stability,” says County Board Chairman Bob Lahman of Parkers Prairie. “Parents are expected to work and are supported while working.”
The MFIP program also includes housing support that pays for room and board for seniors and adults with disabilities who have low incomes. The program aims to reduce and prevent people from living in institutions or becoming homeless.