Final answer:
The purpose of TANF is to provide financial assistance to low-income families and support needy families with children. States use the funds received from the federal government to address various aspects of poverty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of TANF, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, is to provide financial assistance to low-income families and support needy families with children.
Through TANF, the federal government gives a fixed amount of money to each state, which can then use the funds to address various aspects of poverty, such as providing cash assistance, reducing teenage pregnancy, or improving high school graduation rates. However, in order to continue receiving TANF grants, states must impose work requirements and limit the length of time individuals can receive benefits.