Education Grants for Single Mothers in Colorado
Colorado Education Grants for Single Mothers (2025): The No‑Fluff Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a fast, fact‑checked hub for Colorado single moms who need real, immediate help paying for college or job training. Every number and rule below links to an official source. We kept it practical, with exact amounts, timelines, and who to call.
Quick Help (start here)
- FAFSA/CASFA open now: file today to unlock grants. Use the federal FAFSA if you’re eligible; use Colorado’s CASFA if you’re not eligible for federal aid (undocumented, mixed‑status). Filing early unlocks state grants that run out. Apply at FAFSA on StudentAid.gov or Colorado CASFA. Federal deadline for the 2025‑26 FAFSA is June 30, 2026. (cdhe.colorado.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Colorado Promise (new): families with income ≤ $90,000 get a refundable state tax credit to reimburse out‑of‑pocket tuition/fees for up to 65 credits at public colleges (claimed on your state tax return). No separate application. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- COF stipend: Colorado pays $116 per credit toward resident undergraduate tuition at public colleges (you must create and authorize your COF account). (frontrange.edu, financialaid.colostate.edu)
- Big grants to know: Federal Pell Grant up to 7,395∗∗(2025‑26);FSEOGupto∗∗7,395** (2025‑26); FSEOG up to **4,000; TEACH Grant max 4,000∗∗butreducedto∗∗4,000** but reduced to **3,772 after sequestration. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Colorado Student Grant (state need‑based): typically up to $5,000 per year (amount set by each college). Check your school’s aid page. (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu)
- Tuition‑free short programs: Career Advance Colorado and Care Forward Colorado cover tuition, fees, and materials for select high‑demand job certificates (nursing, EMT, ECE, construction, law enforcement, more). (cccs.edu)
- If child care blocks school: Apply for CCCAP (county child care subsidy), campus CCAMPIS slots, and local scholarships like WomenGive in Larimer County. Note: many counties have CCCAP freezes/waitlists in 2025—plan backups. (cdec.colorado.gov, rrcc.edu, coloradosun.com)
- Need a human now: Colorado Workforce Centers can fund training (WIOA) and help with costs. Find your nearest office and call. Directory includes phone numbers for every county. (cdle.colorado.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | What it pays | 2025 amounts (most common) | Who qualifies | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Need‑based grant for undergrads | Up to $7,395 (2025‑26) | Based on FAFSA and Student Aid Index (SAI) | Pell Grant overview (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | Extra grant for highest‑need students | Up to $4,000/yr | Pell recipients with exceptional need; limited funds | Ask your college aid office (FSEOG rules). (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | For future teachers (service required) | Max $3,772 (FY26 disbursements) | Agree to 4‑year teaching service in high‑need field | TEACH/Sequester notice (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Colorado Student Grant | State need‑based | Up to $5,000 (varies by campus) | CO residents/ASSET with need | See your college’s aid page (examples CSU, CU Denver). (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu) |
| COF Stipend | Per‑credit tuition stipend | $116/credit (2024‑26) | CO resident undergrads | COF student page + your school portal. (frontrange.edu) |
| Colorado Promise | Refundable tax credit | Reimburses your out‑of‑pocket tuition/fees up to first 65 credits if family AGI ≤ $90,000 | CO public colleges, meet term GPA/credits | Colorado Promise details. (cdhe.colorado.gov) |
| Career Advance Colorado | Tuition‑free job training | Covers tuition, fees, materials | Target fields (nursing, ECE, education, firefighting, forestry, law, construction) | Program list. (cccs.edu) |
| Care Forward Colorado | Tuition‑free healthcare certificates | Covers tuition, fees, materials | CNA, EMT, MA, Dental Assistant, more | Care Forward overview. (cccs.edu) |
Start Here: File FAFSA or CASFA (Colorado’s State Aid application)
Action first:
- File the FAFSA if you’re eligible for federal aid. If you’re not eligible (e.g., undocumented), file CASFA to unlock Colorado state and institutional grants. Do this now—some funds are first‑come. Deadline for 2025‑26 FAFSA is June 30, 2026; campus priority dates are often in March–April (check your college). Apply at StudentAid.gov and Colorado CASFA. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
What to have ready (save time):
- 2023 federal tax return or non‑filer info, Social Security Number (if you have one), driver’s license or ID, bank balances, child support received/paid.
- For CASFA (undocumented students), documents proving Colorado residency and high school completion (ASSET rules). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Reality check:
- The FAFSA is simpler now but still trips people up on parent/contributor info. Create FSA IDs first, then complete in one sitting if possible. If your ex won’t share info and you can’t include a required contributor, call your school aid office—there may be a dependency override. Processing quirks happen; don’t wait until the last week.
Plan B if this doesn’t work:
- Book a free FAFSA/CASFA help session through your college aid office or a local Workforce Center. If online filing glitches, submit paper plus copies of needed docs and confirm receipt. (cdle.colorado.gov)
Colorado Promise (new): Two Free Years Expanded
Action first:
- Enroll in an eligible Colorado public college and complete FAFSA or CASFA. If your family AGI is $90,000 or less, the state will refund your out‑of‑pocket tuition and fees for up to 65 credits via a refundable state tax credit. No extra application. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Key facts:
- Covers tuition/mandatory fees after other grants/scholarships.
- Term requirements: complete at least 6 credits and earn 2.5 term GPA. Institutions notify students about eligibility/amount (starting with the 2024–25 academic year; refunds claimed on 2025 tax return, paid in early 2026). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- Works at all Colorado public institutions (community colleges, four‑years, local district and area technical colleges). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Tips:
- File taxes even with $0 income—you still get the refund because it’s refundable. If your parent claims you as a dependent, you should still file separately to claim the credit. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Plan B:
- If you don’t meet the Promise term GPA/credit bar, ask your aid office to reassess midyear and look at institutional “promise” programs (e.g., CMC Promise; Mines Promise for full‑Pell students). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
College Opportunity Fund (COF) Stipend
Action first:
- Create your COF account and authorize your school to invoice COF each term. The stipend pays $116 per credit directly to the college for resident undergrads. You only apply once; authorization must be set with each institution. (frontrange.edu, financialaid.colostate.edu)
Good to know:
- Lifetime limit: 145 undergrad credits (waivers available). Private‑college use is limited and requires Pell eligibility. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Plan B:
- If you missed authorizing COF before billing, most schools will let you authorize late within the term. If you hit the 145‑credit cap, ask for an institutional waiver first; then a CCHE waiver if denied. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Colorado Student Grant (State Need‑Based)
Action first:
- File FAFSA/CASFA early and ask your college about “Colorado Student Grant” awarding. Typical max is up to 5,000/year∗∗,proratedbycredits,andvariesbycampusfunding.Examples:CSUlists“upto∗∗5,000/year**, prorated by credits, and varies by campus funding. Examples: CSU lists “up to **5,000,” CU Denver notes a $5,000 cap. (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu)
Eligibility basics:
- CO resident/ASSET, undergraduate, at least half‑time, and financial need (SAI ranges set by each campus). Community colleges follow state rules; colleges set exact amounts within caps. (cccs.edu)
Reality check:
- Funds are limited. Priority filing dates matter (often around March 1). If you enroll part‑time, the award is prorated.
Plan B:
- If your campus is out of state‑grant funds, ask about institutional need grants (many schools stack their own grants where state dollars fall short).
COSI scholarships and “Finish What You Started”
Action first:
- Ask your college or county foundation if COSI funds are available to you. Programs include Matching Student Scholarships, COSI Achieve (launching 2026), and Finish What You Started for adults with some credit and no degree. Awards vary and often combine scholarship dollars with coaching and emergency help. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Helpful details:
- COSI serves students up to 250% of Pell‑eligible need and funds colleges and county partners statewide. Recent awards spread millions across colleges and counties. You typically access COSI by applying at your college foundation or county partner—ask financial aid where to apply on your campus. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Plan B:
- If your campus doesn’t have COSI funding this year, ask about county‑based COSI scholarship pools or “last‑dollar” promise programs (some schools run their own). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Federal Grants You Should Not Miss
Action first:
- When you file FAFSA, you’re automatically considered for Pell and FSEOG. If you’re going into teaching, ask your aid office about TEACH Grant (but read the service requirement carefully).
Key amounts (2025–26):
- Pell Grant: max 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740; summer Pell may add up to 150% if you enroll year‑round. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- FSEOG: 100–100–4,000; campus‑based and limited; awarded first‑come to the highest‑need Pell recipients. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TEACH: statutory 4,000∗∗,butFY25–26sequestrationreducesthemaximumto∗∗4,000**, but FY25–26 sequestration reduces the maximum to **3,772 for disbursements on/after Oct 1, 2025 (and same reduction applied in FY25). If you don’t complete service, it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Plan B:
- If you miss out on FSEOG (campus ran out), focus on COSI, state grants, and institutional “promise” programs plus Work‑Study.
Tuition‑Free Fast Tracks: Career Advance Colorado + Care Forward Colorado
Action first:
- If a quick certificate gets you to higher pay faster, ask your nearest community or technical college whether spots remain in these zero‑cost programs.
What they cover:
- Career Advance Colorado (HB23‑1246): tuition, fees, materials for training in construction, education, early childhood, firefighting, forestry, law enforcement, and nursing. Funding still available at several colleges. (cccs.edu)
- Care Forward Colorado (SB22‑226): tuition, fees, and course materials for entry‑level healthcare certificates (CNA, EMT, MA, Phlebotomy, Dental Assistant, and more) while funding lasts. (cccs.edu)
Timeline:
- Programs can be finished in months, not years. Colleges post remaining seats by program; call admissions/financial aid to hold your spot.
Plan B:
- If your campus has no seats left, ask for referrals to other CCCS colleges or apply for WIOA training funds at your local Workforce Center to cover similar programs. (cdle.colorado.gov)
Campus Child Care Help (CCAMPIS) + County Subsidy (CCCAP)
Action first:
- Ask your college if it has CCAMPIS (Child Care Access Means Parents in School) funding—this helps Pell‑eligible student parents pay campus‑connected child care. Example: Red Rocks CC runs CCAMPIS that offsets center tuition for enrolled students. (rrcc.edu)
- Apply for county CCCAP if you work, job‑search, or attend school/training. Counties must serve families at or below 185% FPL, and cannot serve above 85% of State Median Income; eligibility and copays vary by county. (cdec.colorado.gov)
2025 reality check:
- Many counties placed CCCAP on waitlist/freeze due to budget pressure; expect delays and consider backups. News and state data show widespread freezes affecting thousands of children in 2025. (coloradosun.com)
Plan B:
- If CCCAP is frozen, ask your campus for CCAMPIS, emergency grants, and flexible scheduling. In Larimer County, apply to WomenGive child care scholarships (semester‑based awards; can also cover CCCAP parent fees). (uwaylc.org)
Support That Frees Up Your Budget While You Study
These aren’t “education grants,” but they can make school possible by covering basics.
- SNAP food help (student rules): if you meet an exemption (e.g., work‑study, working 20+ hours/week, caring for a young child, or in certain programs), you may qualify. Max monthly SNAP for 48 states (FY2025) is 292∗∗(1person),∗∗292** (1 person), **536 (2), 768∗∗(3),∗∗768** (3), **975 (4). File with your county. (fns.usda.gov)
- Colorado Works (TANF): monthly cash plus help with school/training and child care; lifetime limit applies. For a one‑parent family with two children and no income, the state “grant standard” is $592/mo (larger families receive more). Apply via PEAK or your county office. (law.cornell.edu)
- Minimum wage and work‑study pay: Colorado 2025 minimum wage is 14.81∗∗(statewide)and∗∗14.81** (statewide) and **18.81 in Denver; campus and off‑campus jobs must comply. Work‑study typically pays at least the local minimum. (cdle.colorado.gov, denvergov.org)
Plan B:
- If your county denies SNAP due to student status, ask the worker to screen all student exemptions (work‑study, child under 6, state‑financed training). For TANF, ask about one‑time “diversion” if you only need short‑term help. (fns.usda.gov)
Tables You Can Scan Fast
A) Colorado and Federal Grants at a Glance
| Grant | Max amount | Key eligibility | Where to act |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pell Grant | $7,395 | FAFSA; SAI‑based; undergrad | File FAFSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | $4,000 | Exceptional need; campus‑based | Ask aid office after FAFSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | $3,772 (after sequestration) | Teaching service requirement | Ask aid office; review service rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Colorado Student Grant | $5,000 (typical cap) | CO resident/ASSET; need | Your school’s aid portal. (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu) |
| COF stipend | $116/credit | Resident undergrad | Create/authorize COF. (frontrange.edu) |
| Colorado Promise | Refund of out‑of‑pocket tuition/fees (≤ 65 credits) | Family AGI ≤ $90,000; GPA/credit minimums | No separate app; claim on taxes. (cdhe.colorado.gov) |
B) Fast Training: Free Tuition Programs
| Program | Sectors | What’s covered | How to enroll |
|---|---|---|---|
| Career Advance Colorado | Nursing, education/ECE, firefighting, forestry, construction, law enforcement | Tuition, fees, materials | Apply at participating CCCS colleges; FAFSA/CASFA required. (cccs.edu) |
| Care Forward Colorado | Healthcare certificates (CNA, EMT, MA, Dental Assist., etc.) | Tuition, fees, materials | Apply at participating colleges; funding while available. (cccs.edu) |
C) Budget Helpers While in School
| Program | 2025 numbers | How it helps |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Max/mo: 292∗∗(1),∗∗292** (1), **536 (2), 768∗∗(3),∗∗768** (3), **975 (4) | Food budget freed for books/transport. Student exemptions apply. (fns.usda.gov) |
| Colorado Works (TANF) | Example grant standard: $592 for 1 parent + 2 kids; higher for bigger households | Cash + work/education help; child care connections. (law.cornell.edu) |
| CCCAP (child care) | Must serve ≤ 185% FPL; no service > 85% SMI; 2025 freezes in many counties | Subsidizes child care while you attend class/work. (cdec.colorado.gov, coloradosun.com) |
D) FAFSA/CASFA and Promise Timelines
| Step | Date/Timing |
|---|---|
| 2025‑26 FAFSA/CASFA open | File now; don’t wait. |
| Federal FAFSA deadline | June 30, 2026 (you can still miss campus priority if you wait). (investopedia.com) |
| Colorado Promise tax credit | Credits for academic year 2024‑25 are claimed on 2025 state tax return; refund arrives early 2026. (cdhe.colorado.gov) |
E) Who to Contact (Statewide)
| Need | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Workforce training (WIOA), tuition help, job search | Find your local Workforce Center (addresses and phones listed): Colorado Workforce Center directory. (cdle.colorado.gov) |
| COF/State aid questions | CDHE State Aid/COF overview and COF info. (cdhe.colorado.gov) |
| TANF/Colorado Works | County human services via CDHS Colorado Works. (cdhs.colorado.gov) |
| CCCAP | County subsidy info + application: CCCAP for Families. (cdec.colorado.gov) |
How to Apply (step‑by‑step) and What to Submit
Action first:
- File FAFSA or CASFA.
- Create COF account and authorize your school.
- Ask your aid office to review you for Colorado Student Grant, FSEOG, Work‑Study, and campus “promise” programs.
Documents checklist:
- Government photo ID; Social Security Number (if any); proof of Colorado residency; 2023 tax return/W‑2s (or non‑filer statement); child support received/paid; SNAP/TANF award letters (can increase aid); proof of household size; proof of independent status (if needed).
- For CCCAP: pay stubs (last 30 days), school schedule, chosen provider details, and any county forms. Counties must apply the ≤185% FPL rule and ≤85% SMI cap; have your income handy so workers can calculate quickly. (cdec.colorado.gov)
Timelines:
- FAFSA eligibility shows on your college portal in about 1–3 weeks after submission in typical cycles; awarding happens on rolling priority dates. Campus grants (FSEOG/state) can run out—apply early.
Plan B:
- If your SAI looks “too high” due to a recent income drop, ask for a Professional Judgment (PJ) review with current pay stubs or unemployment proof. If you have a zero‑income month, ask about “expected cash support” so aid is calculated correctly.
Real‑World Examples
- Community college + Promise + COF: A Denver mom taking 9 credits at a community college sees base tuition around 2,619∗∗for9credits;COFreducesthatby∗∗2,619** for 9 credits; COF reduces that by **1,044; if Pell and Colorado Student Grant still leave 400∗∗infees,ColoradoPromiserefundsthat∗∗400** in fees, Colorado Promise refunds that **400 at tax time (assuming family AGI ≤ $90,000 and term GPA ≥ 2.5). (frontrange.edu, cdhe.colorado.gov)
- Fast track to a license: A single mom completes a CNA certificate under Care Forward Colorado with no tuition/fees/materials out‑of‑pocket, then uses WIOA to fund an employer‑linked Phlebotomy add‑on and cover testing/transport. Start‑to‑job in months, not years. (cccs.edu, cdle.colorado.gov)
- Child care while in classes: A Larimer County mom uses WomenGive to cover her CCCAP copay during semesters (WomenGive can cover CCCAP parent fees), keeping her in 9 credits without dropping below half‑time. (uwaylc.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not authorizing COF after creating the account. You’ll be billed full in‑state tuition without the $116/credit stipend. Fix in your student portal. (financialaid.colostate.edu)
- Waiting until May/June to file FAFSA/CASFA. State/campus grants are often gone by then, even though the federal deadline is June 30, 2026. (investopedia.com)
- Ignoring student SNAP rules. Many student moms qualify under exemptions (work‑study, working 20+ hours, caring for a young child). Don’t self‑deny—ask to be screened. (fns.usda.gov)
- Not asking for a PJ (appeal) when income drops midyear (job loss, reduced hours, loss of child support). Aid offices can legally adjust data case‑by‑case.
- Missing county CCCAP waitlist updates. Counties enter/exit freezes—check monthly and keep alternative providers in mind. (coloradosun.com)
What to Do If This Doesn’t Work (Plan B Options)
- If Pell + state grant still isn’t enough: Add Work‑Study; look at institutional “Promise” programs (Mines Promise for full‑Pell, Colorado Mountain College Promise), and private scholarships targeted to parents (WISP, Project Self‑Sufficiency partnerships, WomenGive). (cdhe.colorado.gov, wispinc.org)
- If CCCAP is frozen: Ask your campus about CCAMPIS seats; ask local nonprofits for temporary child care help; use flexible class times; try a zero‑tuition short program to boost wages first. (rrcc.edu)
- If you need a fast re‑skill with funding: Apply through your Workforce Center for WIOA training funds or paid on‑the‑job training; they can also cover supportive costs (transport, supplies). Call your local center (directory has phone numbers). (cdle.colorado.gov)
Resources by Region (selected offices with phones)
- Denver Metro:
- Denver Workforce Services: see Denver listing under directory. Minimum wage in Denver is $18.81 in 2025. (cdle.colorado.gov, denvergov.org)
- Jefferson County (Golden/Lakewood/Arvada):
- Jefferson County Business & Workforce Center, Golden main office (303) 271‑4755. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Larimer County (Fort Collins/Loveland):
- Larimer County Economic & Workforce Development (970) 498‑6600. WomenGive child care scholarships via United Way of Larimer County. (cdle.colorado.gov, uwaylc.org)
- Pueblo:
- Pueblo Workforce Center (719) 562‑3731. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- Western Slope (Grand Junction):
- Colorado DVR (job training for people with disabilities) Grand Junction (970) 248‑7103; Workforce Center numbers listed by county via directory. (dvr.colorado.gov)
Local Nonprofits and Campus‑Parent Help
- WomenGive (Larimer County): semester‑based child care scholarships; can cover CCCAP parent fees; income up to 225% FPL; multiple application windows annually. (uwaylc.org)
- Project Self‑Sufficiency (NoCo): case management, scholarships, career coaching for single parents (ask WomenGive/college for referral).
- CCAMPIS campuses: ask your college child care center (e.g., Red Rocks CC runs CCAMPIS). (rrcc.edu)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Look for campus LGBT resource centers (emergency grants, childcare referrals). For national scholarships, the Point Foundation supports LGBTQ+ students; combine with state aid and Colorado Promise.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)—they can fund tuition, fees, books, and accommodations after other grants are applied. DVR offices statewide; main line 303‑318‑8571. (dvr.colorado.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Combine GI Bill with COF/Colorado Promise. The Colorado National Guard Tuition Assistance can cover up to 100% tuition at state institutions (contact 303‑677‑8913). (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: If you’re not FAFSA‑eligible, file CASFA to access Colorado state and institutional aid and ASSET resident‑tuition status if you qualify. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- Tribal citizens:
- Southern Ute: full‑time/part‑time higher‑ed scholarships; contact Education 970‑563‑2783; full‑time deadline July 1. Also certificate and internship stipends. (southernute-nsn.gov)
- Ute Mountain Ute: Higher Education and vocational scholarships via the Ute Mountain Learning Center; contact the Higher Education office for deadlines. (utelearning.org)
- National: American Indian College Fund—over 21M∗∗annually;averageawards∗∗21M** annually; average awards **2,000–$3,000; apps open Feb 1 with priority by May 31. (collegefund.org)
- Rural single moms: Use your Workforce Center for WIOA training funds and distance programs; CCCS online plus COF and Promise can lower costs.
- Single fathers: All grants here apply to single dads too. Use the same steps: FAFSA/CASFA, COF, Colorado Promise, and CCCAP if eligible.
- Language access: State pages offer Spanish; campuses can provide interpreters. CASFA is available in Spanish. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
Application Checklist (print this)
- FAFSA or CASFA submitted (confirmation saved).
- COF account created and school authorization completed.
- College aid portal checked for: Colorado Student Grant, FSEOG, Work‑Study, institutional promise programs.
- If parenting: CCCAP application (or waitlist), CCAMPIS inquiry at your campus, and backup child care plan.
- Workforce Center intake (WIOA) if pursuing short‑term training; appointment booked.
- Documents uploaded: ID, SSN/ITIN (if any), 2023 taxes or non‑filer, pay stubs, child support, SNAP/TANF letters, lease/utility for residency, school schedule.
- Ask for a Professional Judgment if your current income is much lower than 2023.
10 Colorado‑Specific FAQs
- What is the 2025–26 Pell Grant maximum?
- 7,395∗∗.Minimumis∗∗7,395**. Minimum is **740. You may get up to 150% across fall/spring/summer if eligible. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How much is the COF stipend?
- $116 per credit for 2024–26 at many public institutions. Create and authorize your COF to get it. (frontrange.edu)
- How do I know if I get Colorado Promise?
- If your family AGI is ≤ $90,000, you filed FAFSA/CASFA, and you meet term requirements (≥ 6 credits, 2.5 GPA), the college will notify you of the amount and you claim it as a refundable credit on your Colorado tax return. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- What’s the Colorado Student Grant amount?
- Varies by college; typical cap is up to $5,000 for undergrads with need. Check your aid portal. (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu)
- Is there extra grant money for the highest‑need students?
- Yes. FSEOG gives 100–100–4,000 depending on campus funds; awarded first to Pell recipients with exceptional need. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Can Colorado fund my short‑term workforce training?
- Yes. Career Advance Colorado and Care Forward Colorado cover full program costs in specific high‑demand fields. Workforce Centers can also fund WIOA training and paid experiences. (cccs.edu, cdle.colorado.gov)
- My county’s CCCAP is frozen. Any alternatives?
- Ask your campus about CCAMPIS and emergency grants; apply to local scholarships like WomenGive (Larimer). Keep checking county status; freezes are widespread in 2025. (rrcc.edu, uwaylc.org, coloradosun.com)
- What are TANF cash amounts in Colorado?
- The state “grant standard” for a one‑parent family with two children and no income is $592/mo; larger families receive more. Rules and calculations are in state regulations. (law.cornell.edu)
- What student minimum wage should I expect if I work?
- Statewide 14.81∗∗;inDenver∗∗14.81**; in Denver **18.81 (2025). Some cities have their own rates. (cdle.colorado.gov, denvergov.org)
- Who can help me one‑on‑one?
- Your college aid office and your local Workforce Center (phones/addresses listed here): Workforce Center directory. DVR helps students with disabilities; main line 303‑318‑8571. (cdle.colorado.gov, dvr.colorado.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE), Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), U.S. Department of Education, and USDA. It follows our Editorial Standards and cites only official or established nonprofit sources. We verify agency links, benefit levels, and eligibility rules and update quickly when policies change.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Have a correction? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program amounts, eligibility, and timelines can change at any time. Always verify details with the official agency or your campus financial aid office before making decisions.
- Security reminder: Never email full SSNs, bank logins, or unredacted documents to anyone. Use official portals (StudentAid.gov, PEAK, county portals) and enable two‑factor authentication where available.
- This guide is for general information, not legal advice. Individual results vary.
Source highlights used throughout this guide
- Pell and federal grant rules/amounts (2025–26): U.S. Department of Education. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- CASFA and ASSET (state aid for undocumented students): CDHE. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- COF stipend and rules: CDHE + campus examples. (cdhe.colorado.gov, frontrange.edu)
- Colorado Promise refundable tax credit details: CDHE. (cdhe.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Student Grant campus caps: CSU, CU Denver. (financialaid.colostate.edu, ucdenver.edu)
- Zero‑cost workforce programs: CCCS. (cccs.edu)
- Workforce Centers/WIOA: CDLE directory and WIOA page. (cdle.colorado.gov)
- CCCAP policy and 2025 freezes: CDEC and Colorado Sun. (cdec.colorado.gov, coloradosun.com)
- SNAP FY2025 max allotments and student rules: USDA FNS. (fns.usda.gov)
- TANF/Colorado Works grant standards: Colorado regulations (LII/Cornell). (law.cornell.edu)
- Minimum wage 2025: CDLE (state) and Denver. (cdle.colorado.gov, denvergov.org)
- Tribal scholarship contacts: Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute resources; American Indian College Fund. (southernute-nsn.gov, utelearning.org, collegefund.org)
If you hit a wall anywhere, reply with your county, school (or program), credits planned, 2023 AGI, and ages of your kids. We can triage your exact next steps in minutes.
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- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
