Workforce Training

Welcome to the WorkFirst Program

Tuition, Books & Childcare Assistance · For Low-Income Working Parents

If you are a low-income working parent, SVC's WorkFirst program may be able to help you realize your dreams for education and a better job. The program offers financial aid and childcare assistance to eligible low-income working parents.

WorkFirst is part of Washington state's Welfare-to-Work program. WorkFirst receives funding from the U.S. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Bureau (TANF). (hyperlink to http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/tanf/about.html)

SVC's talented WorkFirst staff will assist you in developing a plan to gain professional skills and seek a better-paying job.

Workfirst Program Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for any WorkFirst program you must:

• Work 20 or more hours per week
• Be a parent with a child/children under age 18
• Meet Federal Poverty Income Level Guidelines

Tuition Reimbursement Guidelines

• Eligible Washington state residents receive full tuition reimbursement.
• For non-residents, WorkFirst may pay the resident tuition rate and the student will be required to pay the remaining difference between resident and non-resident.

SVC's WorkFirst Assistance Programs

Adult Basic Education/GED
Offered at SVC's campus or the WorkFirst Literacy Skills center. WorkFirst can assist with the cost of books, tuition, and GED test fees.

Working Connections Child Care
WCCC is a childcare subsidy program through Washington state's Department of Social and Health Services.

• To be eligible you must:
  • Be working 20 hours or more per week
  • Or be working 16-19 hours per week work-study
  • Be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits
  • Be taking Vocational, Technical, ESL, or GED classes

Customized Job Skills Training
Programs of 8-22 weeks, funded by WorkFirst. Typical training options have included Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Registration Representative, Customer Service, and Foundations of Healthcare.

• To be eligible you need:
  • A high school diploma or GED
  • A referral from a case manager or Job Club worker
  • To successfully complete SVC's 4-week WorkPlace Essential Skills

WorkFirst WorkStudy
Students earn $8.00 per hour while working 16-19 hours per week on campus. WorkStudy qualifies you for the 20 hours per week requirements in other WorkFirst programs.

• To be eligible you need:
  • To be receiving TANF assistance
  • To be enrolled in 6+ credits in a vocational program
  • To be eligible for financial aid

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For more information, call the WorkFirst office nearest you:
Mount Vernon Campus
Sinead Fitzpatrick, WorkFirst Employment and Training Specialist
(360) 416-7869
Whidbey Island Campus
Joyce Gillingham, WorkFirst Coordinator
(360) 416-7856