Job Training for Single Mothers in Delaware
Delaware Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in Delaware who need job training that actually leads to a paycheck. It gives exact amounts, phone numbers, timelines, and the fastest ways to start today—plus plan B options if one route doesn’t work.
Skip to Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Quick Help Box
- Call the Delaware American Job Center to start training help and funding: (302) 761‑8085. Ask for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) training. (labor.delaware.gov)
- If you’re working for a small employer, apply for Elevate Delaware for up to $10,000 toward short‑term certificates plus help with living costs: (302) 451‑3488. (labor.delaware.gov, delcode.delaware.gov)
- Training + a paycheck: ask about On‑the‑Job Training (OJT). Employers can be reimbursed 50% of your wages for 4–26 weeks; OJT jobs must start at least 16/hour∗∗;supportiveservicesupto∗∗16/hour**; supportive services up to **1,000 per OJT. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Need child care while you train or work? Delaware Purchase of Care (POC) is open to about 185% FPL at entry, phases out up to 215% FPL, and closes at 85% SMI; copays can be waived up to 150% FPL. See income table below. Apply online via ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Free or tuition‑covered workforce certificates at Delaware Tech through SEED+: tuition only, not fees/books, for approved programs (many are 100+ hours). (dtcc.edu)
- If you’re on SNAP, ask about SNAP E&T. Transportation reimbursement is small but real—monthly up to 30∗∗,withanautomatic∗∗30**, with an automatic **5 allowance in New Castle County or $10 in Kent/Sussex plus verified costs. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.delaware.gov)
Why this guide is different
Most search results list programs but skip the hard parts—how to qualify, how much you can actually get, who to call, and how long it takes. Below you’ll find:
- Exact dollar amounts, phone numbers, addresses, and realistic timelines.
- Common mistakes that slow applications.
- Plan B options for every major path.
- County‑by‑county contacts.
Everything links to official Delaware/state or well‑established sources and is current as of September 2025.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who It Helps | What You Can Get | How to Apply | Key Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WIOA training via American Job Centers | Low‑income adults, dislocated workers; SNAP/TANF recipients may qualify faster | Tuition support via Individual Training Accounts (ITA), career services, testing, case management; timeline often 4+ weeks | Create a Delaware JobLink account, complete CASAS test, attend Career Planning, meet one‑on‑one with Employment Specialist | AJC Scheduling: (302) 761‑8085; Start here: DET Job Seeker Services page (labor.delaware.gov) |
| Elevate Delaware | Employed by DE employer with < 51 employees; accepted to approved non‑credit certificate; subject to DE income tax | Up to $10,000 tuition; auxiliary expense help (living costs) during training and up to 90 days after | Create Delaware JobLink; submit Elevate application | Program line: (302) 451‑3488; Details: Elevate Delaware (labor.delaware.gov, delcode.delaware.gov) |
| On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) | Jobseekers hired into full‑time roles | Employer reimbursed 50% of wages for 4–26 weeks; OJT jobs must start at 16/hr∗∗;supportiveservicesupto∗∗16/hr**; supportive services up to **1,000 per OJT | Ask your AJC specialist; employer signs OJT contract before your start date | OJT info: Delaware OJT Program (labor.delaware.gov) |
| Registered Apprenticeship | Hired by a sponsoring employer; “earn while you learn” | Paid job + at least 144 classroom hours/year; typical 4 years/8,000 hours; average entry wage $14.70 | Apply to sponsor; or call Apprenticeship Office for openings | Apprenticeship Office: (302) 761‑8328; Info: Apprenticeship & Training (labor.delaware.gov) |
| Purchase of Care (POC) child care | Working/training parents | Subsidized child care; copays waived ≤ 150% FPL; 7% of income (150–215% FPL) | Apply via ASSIST | POC details + income table: DSS Child Care (dhss.delaware.gov) |
| SEED+ (Delaware Tech) | DE residents in credit or select workforce programs (≥100 hours) | Tuition only for eligible programs; up to 10 semesters | Apply to DTCC + SEED application (no FAFSA for non‑credit) | SEED+ at DTCC: Scholarship info (dtcc.edu) |
Start Here: 15‑Minute Plan to Get Into Training
- Create or update your free Delaware JobLink profile. It’s the system your case manager will use to refer you to training and employers. Delaware JobLink.
- Call the American Job Center and ask for an appointment for training: (302) 761‑8085. Tell them you’re a single parent seeking WIOA training funding and need CASAS testing and the Career Planning workshop. Allow at least 4 weeks from first appointment to a training approval. (labor.delaware.gov)
- If you are already working for a small employer (< 51 employees), call Elevate Delaware at (302) 451‑3488 and ask if your certificate is on the eligible list. Elevate can stack with employer help and other aid, up to $10,000. (labor.delaware.gov, delcode.delaware.gov)
- If child care blocks you from training, apply for Purchase of Care right away (ASSIST). See income table below. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Delaware’s American Job Centers (AJC): WIOA Training Funding
Most moms start here, especially if not employed or changing fields.
- Most important action: call (302) 761‑8085 and request a training appointment at your nearest AJC. (labor.delaware.gov)
What AJC can cover
- Training tuition for approved degree, license, and certificate programs (through Individual Training Accounts—ITA) plus job search workshops and case management. Not an entitlement; eligibility must be established. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Steps you must complete:
- Create/Update your Delaware JobLink profile.
- Take the CASAS reading/math test.
- Attend the Career Planning Workshop (they help you choose a target occupation and school).
- Bring documents to your one‑on‑one meeting (see checklist below). (labor.delaware.gov)
- Timeline: DET says the process “can take at least four weeks.” Plan accordingly—line up child care and transportation early. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Where to go (you can use any office; pick the closest):
| Office | Address | Training Line |
|---|---|---|
| Wilmington AJC | 4425 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 19802 | (302) 761‑8085 |
| Newark AJC | University Office Plaza, 252 Chapman Rd., 2nd Floor, Newark, DE 19702 | (302) 368‑6622 |
| Dover AJC | Blue Hen Corporate Center, 655 S. Bay Rd., Suite 2H, Dover, DE 19901 | (302) 739‑5473 |
| Georgetown AJC | 8 Georgetown Plaza, Suite 2, Georgetown, DE 19947 | (302) 856‑5230 |
Eligible training and demand jobs
- Use the Delaware Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) and the High Demand Occupation List to pick a program that’s fundable and leads to local jobs. DWDB Training & Providers (ETPL). (labor.delaware.gov)
Reality check
- WIOA funds are competitive and capped. There isn’t one public cap published for all programs; your case manager decides based on policy, your eligibility, the school’s cost, and funding on hand. Bring a cheaper backup program in case your first choice is over budget. See the DWDB’s ITA forms page to understand approvals and provider rules. ITA Forms/Process. (labor.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask for OJT (below), an apprenticeship lead, or Elevate Delaware if you’re already employed by a small business. Also check Delaware Tech SEED+ (tuition only) and free training at the Food Bank of Delaware. (labor.delaware.gov, dtcc.edu, fbd.org)
Elevate Delaware: Up to $10,000 for Short‑Term Certificates (non‑credit)
Best for single moms already working for a Delaware small employer who need a certificate to move up.
- Most important action: call (302) 451‑3488 or start with Elevate Delaware. (labor.delaware.gov)
What it pays
- Up to $10,000 toward approved non‑credit certificate tuition.
- “Auxiliary expenses” (basic living costs or training supplies) can be paid while in training and up to 90 days after you finish, up to the difference between your tuition payment and $10,000. First‑come, first‑served. (delcode.delaware.gov, legis.delaware.gov)
Who qualifies
- You’re employed by an employer with under 51 employees; accepted into an eligible non‑credit program listed by the Delaware Workforce Development Board; and you are subject to Delaware income tax (as a resident or as a nonresident working for that eligible employer). (delcode.delaware.gov)
How to apply
- Create a Delaware JobLink account, get your program acceptance letter, ask your employer for any training aid it can provide, then submit the Elevate application. Keep paystubs/tax info handy. (labor.delaware.gov)
Reality check
- This is not a guarantee—funds are limited each year and paid out in order. If your employer has 51+ employees, Elevate doesn’t apply. (delcode.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask AJC for WIOA ITA funding or OJT, or check SEED+ at Delaware Tech for tuition‑only coverage. (labor.delaware.gov, dtcc.edu)
On‑the‑Job Training (OJT): Learn on the clock
OJT is a fast way to get hired and trained with support from the state.
- Most important action: tell your AJC counselor you want OJT and share target employers. They can pitch OJT to the company.
Key facts
- Employer reimbursement: up to 50% of your wages for 4–26 weeks.
- OJT starting wage: at least $16/hour.
- Full‑time only: at least 37.5 hours/week.
- Supportive services: up to $1,000 per OJT for training needs (pre‑approved). (labor.delaware.gov)
Example
- A Dover mom lands an entry IT help desk job at 18/hour∗∗underOJT.Theemployerisreimbursedhalfherwagesforthreemonths.Shealsogets∗∗18/hour** under OJT. The employer is reimbursed half her wages for three months. She also gets **350 to cover exam fees and a headset under supportive services. (Amounts per program limits; your case manager must pre‑approve.) (labor.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about Registered Apprenticeship openings in your county (electrician, HVAC, plumbing). Or pivot to a short certificate funded through Elevate or SEED+. (labor.delaware.gov, dtcc.edu)
Registered Apprenticeship: “Earn while you learn”
- Most important action: call the Apprenticeship Office at (302) 761‑8328 or email apprenticeship@delaware.gov for current openings and pre‑apprenticeship options in your county. (labor.delaware.gov)
Facts at a glance
- Typical length: 4 years (8,000 hours) with at least 144 classroom hours per year; wages rise as you progress. Average entry wage is $14.70. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Top Delaware trades: Electrician, HVAC, Plumbing/Pipefitting, Carpenters, Construction Laborers. Early childhood education and automotive apprenticeships also exist. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Tuition: Many apprenticeships are tuition‑free for the related instruction once sponsored, but books/fees vary by local program. Confirm with the school.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Start with a pre‑apprenticeship at a vo‑tech adult ed (New Castle, Polytech, Sussex Tech) while you job hunt. Ask AJC for OJT as a bridge. (labor.delaware.gov)
Child Care While You Train or Work: Purchase of Care (POC)
- Most important action: apply as soon as you schedule training—delays in child care can delay everything.
Eligibility and current income rules (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025)
- Initial eligibility at or below 185% FPL; graduated phase‑out to 200%–215% FPL at redetermination; case closes if income exceeds 85% SMI.
- Copay waived at or below 150% FPL; copay equals 7% of gross income for 150%–215% FPL families. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Selected monthly income thresholds (from DSS table)
| Family Size | Max Gross Monthly Income (200% FPL) | Redetermination Max (215% FPL) | 85% SMI Monthly Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,408 | $3,664 | $5,388 |
| 3 | $4,304 | $4,627 | $6,656 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $5,590 | $7,924 |
| 5 | $6,098 | $6,555 | $9,192 |
How to apply
- Apply online (ASSIST) or contact DSS.
- Bring proof of training schedule or work hours, income, ID, kids’ birth certificates, and provider info.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your AJC case manager for short‑term child care assistance through program supportive services (if available) and check whether your training provider has on‑site or partner child care. If you’re on SNAP/TANF, ask your DSS worker about child care support tied to those programs. (regulations.justia.com)
SEED+ at Delaware Tech: Tuition‑Only Help for Credit and Workforce Programs
- Most important action: choose an eligible DTCC program (credit or non‑credit workforce of at least 100 hours), then complete the SEED application. For non‑credit programs, FAFSA is not required. (dtcc.edu)
Key points
- SEED covers tuition only; fees/books are your responsibility. Many workforce programs are short (weeks to a few months). (dtcc.edu)
- SEED eligibility has expanded (often called SEED+): open to Delawareans of all ages; up to 10 semesters of coverage; 5‑year residency required if age 25+. Undocumented students may qualify if Delaware high school grads who meet affidavit and other conditions (see DTCC). (dtcc.edu)
- FY25–26 cost of attendance (credit programs) shows in‑state tuition 4,575∗∗peracademicyear;SEEDmayreduceyourout‑of‑pockettuitiontozero,butyoumuststillcoverfeesandbooks(sample:averagefees∗∗4,575** per academic year; SEED may reduce your out‑of‑pocket tuition to zero, but you must still cover fees and books (sample: average fees **870 per year). Workforce program fees vary by course—check your program page. (dtcc.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use WIOA ITA via AJC or Elevate Delaware for non‑credit certificates; combine with employer tuition help, payment plans (Nelnet), or scholarships through your campus. (labor.delaware.gov, dtcc.edu)
SNAP Employment & Training (E&T): Small but Useful Support
If you receive SNAP, ask to be referred to SNAP E&T.
What you can get
- Transportation reimbursement each month up to 30∗∗total:automatic∗∗30** total: automatic **5 (New Castle) or $10 (Kent/Sussex) plus verified costs above that initial amount; one allowance per month; additional documented costs can be approved but cannot exceed the monthly standard without supervisor sign‑off. Dependent care and other supportive services may be available case‑by‑case. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.delaware.gov)
- Federal rules require states to reimburse reasonable/necessary E&T costs; amounts vary by state. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your training costs more than SNAP E&T can cover, pivot to WIOA (AJC), Elevate Delaware, SEED+, or OJT. (labor.delaware.gov)
TANF and Training
If you receive TANF cash assistance, you must meet work requirements—training can count. Delaware lists monthly payment standards and income tests for FFY 2025.
Selected TANF figures (FFY 2025)
| Budget Group Size | Recipient Max Net Monthly Income | Payment Standard (TANF & RCA) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $941 | $201 |
| 2 | $1,278 | $270 |
| 3 | $1,614 | $338 |
| 4 | $1,950 | $407 |
| 5 | $2,287 | $475 |
- Work expectation: generally 30 hours/week to keep your check. Talk to your DSS worker about approved training activities and supportive services (transport, supplies, testing fees). (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If TANF hours are hard to meet due to child care or transportation, tell DSS immediately. Ask about child care through POC and coordinate with your AJC to count your training and job search hours correctly. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Wages and Labor Market Snapshot (so you can pick a target)
- Delaware’s median hourly wage across all occupations was $23.69 (May 2023). Use BLS May 2024 profiles for occupation‑specific wages when choosing a program. (bls.gov)
- Minimum wage: 13.25/hour∗∗in2024;increasesto∗∗13.25/hour** in 2024; increases to **15.00/hour on January 1, 2025 (good to know when you evaluate job offers and OJT terms). (labor.delaware.gov)
- State jobs sometimes publish training‑linked salaries; for example, newly certified CNAs at state facilities start around $34,000/year, plus benefits. (news.delaware.gov)
Tip: When comparing programs, look up the BLS May 2024 wage for your exact occupation title in Delaware and the county you’ll work in. Use the “May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates” map to pick Delaware, then your occupation. (bls.gov)
Adult Education and GED (for moms finishing high school or boosting basic skills)
- Free adult education (ABE/GED prep) is available statewide through providers funded under WIOA Title II. See the Delaware DOE provider list with phone numbers by county. (education.delaware.gov)
- GED test fees: Some local info lists 144∗∗total;anolderDDOEpagelists∗∗144** total; an older DDOE page lists **120. Sites set by GED Testing Service may differ—confirm your center’s current fee when you book. Financial help exists through health plans (e.g., AmeriHealth “Mission GED” vouchers) and some adult ed programs. (dcdal.org, education.delaware.gov, amerihealthcaritasde.com)
- Example testing centers include Appoquinimink Adult Education (Middletown), Polytech Adult Education (Woodside), DSU (Dover), and DTCC sites. See the DOE table for addresses and location IDs. (education.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If distance learning is unavailable or paused, call a nearby in‑person provider from the DOE list (e.g., Polytech Adult Education (302) 697‑4545, Sussex Tech Adult Education (302) 856‑9035). (education.delaware.gov)
Local Training You Can Start Quickly (often low/no cost)
- Food Bank of Delaware — Culinary School (14 weeks) and L.O.G.I.C. warehousing/logistics (14 weeks). Tuition, meals, uniforms, supplies, and transportation covered; includes a paid work experience and ServSafe. Newark and Milford. New Castle contact (302) 219‑5320; Kent/Sussex (302) 424‑3301 ext. 171. (fbd.org)
- Goodwill of Delaware — workforce development, re‑entry, disability employment services, and a job resource center. Start here if you need job readiness and barrier removal along with training. (goodwillde.org)
- Year Up United (Wilmington/New Castle virtual campus) — tuition‑free training with educational stipend in paths like Data Analytics, Financial Ops, and Customer Success; targets ages 18–29. Rolling start dates in 2025. (yearup.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your AJC counselor to connect you to a different nonprofit program or an employer cohort in healthcare, IT, or manufacturing. Use Delaware VOCAL to message staff and browse opportunities in one place. (labor.delaware.gov)
In‑Demand Paths That Fit Parenting Schedules
- Healthcare support (CNA to LPN), medical assistant, pharmacy tech.
- Skilled trades (electrician, HVAC, plumbing) via apprenticeship.
- Transportation/logistics (CDL‑A, warehousing).
- IT help desk and data support (short certificates; OJT pairs well here).
Use the Delaware High Demand Occupation List and ETPL to pick a path that is fundable and hires in your county. (labor.delaware.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting a class before funding approval is in writing.
- Choosing a program not on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL)—then WIOA can’t pay.
- Skipping the CASAS test or Career Planning workshop; your case can’t move forward without them.
- Not lining up child care early; POC approval can take time and missing class hours can get you dropped.
- Ignoring attendance rules—OJT and Elevate require steady participation to keep payments flowing. (labor.delaware.gov)
Application Checklist
Bring these to your AJC/School/DSS appointments to cut weeks off your timeline.
- Photo ID and Social Security card.
- Proof of Delaware address (lease, utility bill, or mail).
- Proof of household income for the last 30 days (paystubs, benefit letters) and any child support received.
- Training program acceptance letter (for Elevate/SEED+/ITA) and cost sheet.
- Work schedule (if employed) or unemployment claim info.
- Child birth certificates and schedule/need for child care (for POC).
- SNAP/TANF/Medicaid award letters (these can expedite eligibility in some programs). (labor.delaware.gov)
County‑by‑County Contacts (keep this list)
| County | Where to Call/Go | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| New Castle | Wilmington AJC: (302) 761‑8085; Newark AJC: (302) 368‑6622 | WIOA training, OJT, job search help |
| Kent | Dover AJC: (302) 739‑5473 | Same as above |
| Sussex | Georgetown AJC: (302) 856‑5230 | Same as above |
| Apprenticeship (statewide) | (302) 761‑8328, apprenticeship@delaware.gov | Apprenticeship openings and sponsors |
| Child Care (statewide POC) | Apply via ASSIST; see DSS Child Care | Subsidized child care while you train/work |
Realistic Timelines
- American Job Center WIOA training approval: at least 4 weeks from first contact to enrollment (can be longer in busy months). (labor.delaware.gov)
- Elevate Delaware: first‑come, first‑served each funding period; allow several weeks for processing. (labor.delaware.gov)
- OJT: can move quickly once an employer says yes—make sure the OJT contract is signed on or before your start date. (labor.delaware.gov)
- POC child care: variable; apply early to avoid losing your training seat. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Pay and Budget Notes You Should Know
- Delaware minimum wage rises to $15.00/hour on January 1, 2025. Don’t accept less for non‑tipped jobs. (labor.delaware.gov)
- OJT jobs must start at least $16/hour—use that floor when negotiating. (labor.delaware.gov)
- If you’re laid off and on Unemployment Insurance, training is allowed if it’s “approved by the Secretary of Labor” and you otherwise meet UI rules; don’t refuse suitable work. Ask UI before changing your schedule. (labor.delaware.gov)
Diverse Communities: Getting the Right Fit and Support
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Check inclusive training environments and support groups at your chosen campus. Delaware Tech’s student services and many nonprofits (e.g., West End Neighborhood House) provide welcoming spaces and referrals. See adult ed providers and community partners listed on DOE/DTCC pages. (education.delaware.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising children with disabilities: Call the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) at (302) 761‑8275 (Wilmington) or your county office. DVR can fund training, job coaching, and accommodations and coordinate with AJC and DSS. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask AJC for veteran priority of service and meet with the Local Veterans’ Employment Representative (LVER) or DVOP specialist at the AJC. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: SEED eligibility may include undocumented Delaware high school graduates who meet DTCC affidavit requirements. For benefits access, DSS’s Community Partner Support Unit helps community agencies and can connect you to language support. (dtcc.edu)
- Tribal citizens: Use AJC plus national Native‑serving workforce programs if eligible; keep documentation of tribal citizenship for any program that asks.
- Rural single moms (Kent/Sussex): Use Georgetown/Dover AJCs. Food Bank training in Milford can be faster to start and comes with transportation support. (labor.delaware.gov, fbd.org)
- Single fathers: Every program here (AJC, Elevate, OJT, POC) applies to single dads too; eligibility is based on income and need, not gender. Programs serve all parents.
- Language access: Many state pages offer “Listen” buttons and translation. Ask for an interpreter at AJC/DSS appointments; it’s your right.
Sector Tables (Pick your lane)
Training and Funding Options by Goal
| Goal | Best First Step | Typical Timeline | Money in Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quick job with training | Ask AJC for OJT lead | Weeks | Employer reimbursed 50% wages; you get a paycheck; supportive services up to $1,000 |
| Promotion at small employer | Apply to Elevate Delaware | Weeks | Up to $10,000 tuition + auxiliary costs during training and 90 days after |
| Skilled trade career | Call Apprenticeship Office | Months | Paid job from day one; entry wage ~$14.70; tuition for related instruction often covered by sponsor |
| Healthcare entry (CNA/MA) | ETPL school via AJC; Food Bank Culinary for kitchen track | 1–4 months | WIOA/SEED/Elevate vary; confirm each program’s costs |
| IT/data support | Short certificate via AJC/SEED; Year Up United if 18–29 | 3–6 months | Tuition covered (SEED), or employer OJT; Year Up offers stipend |
Child Care Support Snapshot (POC)
| At application | At redetermination | Copays | Closure trigger |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ 185% FPL | Up to 200–215% FPL (phase‑out) | Waived ≤ 150% FPL; then 7% of gross income to 215% FPL | Income > 85% SMI or no ongoing need |
American Job Centers and Key Lines
| Location | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Wilmington (New Castle) | 4425 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 19802 | (302) 761‑8085 |
| Newark (New Castle) | 252 Chapman Rd., 2nd Floor, Newark, DE 19702 | (302) 368‑6622 |
| Dover (Kent) | 655 S. Bay Rd., Suite 2H, Dover, DE 19901 | (302) 739‑5473 |
| Georgetown (Sussex) | 8 Georgetown Plaza, Suite 2, Georgetown, DE 19947 | (302) 856‑5230 |
“What If” Playbook
- If your chosen school is too expensive for an ITA: switch to an ETPL program in the same field with lower costs or ask about OJT with an employer who will train you. (labor.delaware.gov)
- If you’re already employed but can’t afford school: Elevate Delaware or SEED+ workforce certificates (tuition only). Stack with employer tuition aid if offered. (labor.delaware.gov, dtcc.edu)
- If transportation is the blocker: ask your AJC case manager about bus passes or mileage help under supportive services; SNAP E&T can reimburse small amounts monthly (see above). (labor.delaware.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- If you were laid off: ask UI whether your plan counts as “approved training” so benefits continue while you attend. (labor.delaware.gov)
10 Delaware‑Specific FAQs
- How long does it take to get WIOA training approved?
- At least 4 weeks from first contact to approval, per DET. Start CASAS and Career Planning quickly. (labor.delaware.gov)
- What’s the fastest way to get into a paid training path?
- OJT or Registered Apprenticeship—both pay while you learn. OJT requires an employer to sponsor; apprenticeship requires a sponsor/employer too. (labor.delaware.gov)
- I work for a small employer. Can I get help to move up?
- Yes—Elevate Delaware can pay up to $10,000 for approved non‑credit certificates plus auxiliary expenses during training and 90 days after. Must be employed by an employer with < 51 staff and subject to DE income tax. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Will SEED+ at Delaware Tech cover everything?
- SEED covers tuition only (not fees/books). Many short workforce programs qualify (≥100 hours). For non‑credit, FAFSA isn’t required. (dtcc.edu)
- Can I get child care while I train?
- Yes—POC subsidizes care. Copay may be waived up to 150% FPL; see table. Apply early via ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Can I collect Unemployment Insurance while in school?
- Possibly, if your training is approved by the Secretary of Labor and you meet all other UI rules. Don’t quit a job to enroll without checking—quitting can disqualify you. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Is there help with transportation?
- AJC can sometimes provide bus passes or small supportive funds (ask your case manager). SNAP E&T can reimburse transportation up to $30/month with rules. (labor.delaware.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- What are OJT’s pay rules?
- OJT jobs must start at least $16/hour, be full‑time (37.5+ hours/week), and are meant to continue after training ends. (labor.delaware.gov)
- I never finished high school. What are my options?
- Free GED/ABE classes statewide; confirm current GED test fees with your testing center (recent local info lists 144∗∗total;somepageslist∗∗144** total; some pages list **120). Health plans like AmeriHealth may provide GED vouchers. (dcdal.org, education.delaware.gov, amerihealthcaritasde.com)
- What wage should I expect?
- Use BLS May 2024 for your occupation in Delaware. As a baseline, DE’s median across all jobs was 23.69∗∗(May2023).Alsonotethestatewideminimumwagerisesto∗∗23.69** (May 2023). Also note the statewide minimum wage rises to **15.00/hour on Jan 1, 2025. (bls.gov, labor.delaware.gov)
Resources by Region
- New Castle County: Wilmington AJC (302‑761‑8085); Newark AJC (302‑368‑6622); Food Bank training in Newark; Goodwill workforce services; Year Up United virtual campus. (labor.delaware.gov, fbd.org, goodwillde.org, yearup.org)
- Kent County: Dover AJC (302‑739‑5473); Polytech Adult Education (302‑697‑4545); Food Bank training in Milford. (labor.delaware.gov, education.delaware.gov, fbd.org)
- Sussex County: Georgetown AJC (302‑856‑5230); Sussex Tech Adult Education (302‑856‑9035); Food Bank training in Milford. (labor.delaware.gov, education.delaware.gov, fbd.org)
“Pick a Target” Wage Tools (so you don’t undersell yourself)
- May 2024 BLS State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (choose Delaware, then your occupation). (bls.gov)
- Delaware Office of Occupational & Labor Market Information (OOLMI) — wage publications and projections. (lmi.delaware.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Delaware Department of Labor (DET/DVR), Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DSS), Delaware Department of Education, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and established nonprofits like Delaware Tech, Food Bank of Delaware, Goodwill, and Year Up.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules and amounts change. Always confirm with the agency or school using the links and numbers in this guide.
- This is general information, not legal advice or a case decision.
- Security note: for your privacy, do not email full SSNs or full EBT card numbers; use official portals (ASSIST, Delaware JobLink, or agency phone lines) for personal documents.
- Health‑related references (e.g., Medicaid, child care) are informational only—confirm coverage and provider networks with DSS/DMMA or your health plan.
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Sources (selected)
- American Job Centers, contacts/hours/addresses; AJC steps and timeline; OJT details. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Elevate Delaware statute and program page (amounts/eligibility/auxiliary expenses). (delcode.delaware.gov, labor.delaware.gov)
- POC child care income limits, phase‑out, copays, 85% SMI threshold (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Registered Apprenticeship overview, entry wage, contact. (labor.delaware.gov)
- Minimum wage (2024 and 2025 change). (labor.delaware.gov)
- BLS wages (statewide median; link to May 2024 pages). (bls.gov)
- SNAP E&T reimbursements (policy + DE regs). (fns.usda.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- TANF payment standards/income tests FFY 2025. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Adult Education/GED providers and GED fees notes; local health plan GED vouchers. (education.delaware.gov, dcdal.org, amerihealthcaritasde.com)
- Food Bank of Delaware workforce programs. (fbd.org)
- Year Up United Wilmington/New Castle information (eligibility/paths/dates). (yearup.org)
If a link is temporarily down, try again later or call the listed office number. We monitor and correct broken links quickly.
🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware
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- ⚖️ Legal Help
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
