Kansas Job Training for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in Kansas who need training that leads to a real job, with child care covered, deadlines clear, and phone numbers you can actually call. We checked every claim against official sources and gave you links you can click.

Before we start: what the top search results miss. Most results are either national lists or generic Kansas pages. They rarely list exact dollar amounts, income limits, phone numbers, or realistic timelines. This guide fills those gaps with Kansas‑specific numbers, state contacts, and step‑by‑step actions that fit a single mom’s schedule.

Quick Help Box

• Call your nearest Workforce Center now to start WIOA-funded training. Example numbers: Wichita Workforce Center (316‑771‑6800); Topeka Workforce Center (785‑235‑5627); Wyandotte County (Kansas City, KS) (913‑279‑2600). Use the statewide directory if you’re elsewhere. KANSASWORKS workforce center directory (official phone list). (kansasworks.com)
• Need child care while you train or work? Apply for the Kansas Child Care Assistance subsidy. For a family of 3, initial income can be up to $6,388/month (effective April 1, 2025). Call 1‑888‑369‑4777 or apply online. DCF Child Care Assistance (eligibility, income chart, application). (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Doing a 2‑year college or technical program? The Kansas Promise Scholarship can cover tuition, required fees, books, and materials (last‑dollar) up to a lifetime cap of $20,000\ast \ast or\ast \ast 68credithours\ast \ast .Incomelimits:upto\ast \ast$150,000 for a family of 3. Apply through the Kansas Board of Regents. Kansas Promise Scholarship (rules, amounts, deadlines). (kansasregents.org)
• Low income or laid off? Ask about WIOA training funds (Individual Training Accounts), On‑the‑Job Training, and Registered Apprenticeship. Start at your Workforce Center or at KANSASWORKS.com (state job, training, and apprenticeship portal). (kansasworks.com)
• If you have a disability (including learning, physical, mental health, or vision/hearing): Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) can fund training and supports. Call VR Customer Service 1‑866‑213‑9079 or your local DCF office. Kansas DCF Rehabilitation Services contacts. (dcf.ks.gov)

How to Use This Guide

• We start each section with the crucial action first.
• We give you the amounts, income limits, timelines, and forms.
• We end each section with “What to do if this doesn’t work” so you always have a Plan B.

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A. Fast Track: Start With Your Local Workforce Center (WIOA)

Most moms get training paid through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) run by Kansas through KANSASWORKS. These centers can pay for approved training, OJT, apprenticeships, and supportive services like books, testing, and sometimes transportation—even while you keep your benefits.

First action

• Call your nearest Workforce Center today and ask for a WIOA eligibility appointment. Use the official directory. KANSASWORKS workforce center directory (phones statewide). Examples: Wichita (316‑771‑6800); Topeka (785‑235‑5627); Johnson County/Lenexa (913‑577‑5900); Hays (785‑625‑5654); Garden City (620‑276‑2339); Salina (785‑827‑0385). (kansasworks.com)

What WIOA can pay for

• Training at approved schools (the state Eligible Training Provider List). Search programs inside KANSASWORKS. KANSASWORKS training search. (kansasworks.com)
• On‑the‑Job Training (OJT): you get hired and trained; employers are reimbursed for part of your wages during training. Kansas Dept. of Commerce says up to 50% wage reimbursement; the KANSASWORKS Programs page notes some contracts reimburse up to 75% and can run up to 26 weeks. Confirm locally because terms vary by area. Kansas Commerce OJT overview and KANSASWORKS Programs—OJT description. (kansascommerce.gov, kansasworks.com)
• Registered Apprenticeship (earn while you learn with a recognized credential). Start at your Workforce Center or contact the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship at (785‑296‑4161) or email listed on the page. Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship (how to get in, contacts). (kansascommerce.gov)

Basic eligibility (adult program)

• Priority if you receive public assistance (TANF, SNAP, SSI), are low income under federal guidelines, are homeless, or are “basic skills deficient.” Local centers confirm this with your paperwork.
• For income, WIOA uses federal Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL). For the Midwest region (includes Kansas), 2025 70% LLSIL examples: family of 1 $12,193–$11,649 (non‑metro/metro), family of 3 $27,431–$26,188, family of 4 $33,863–$32,327. Local staff will check the right column for your county and family size. 2025 LLSIL for Midwest region (official chart used by states). (dwd.wisconsin.gov)

Documents to bring (first appointment)

• Photo ID; Social Security card; proof you can work in the U.S.
• Proof of household income for the last 6 months (pay stubs, benefit letters, child support received).
• Public benefits letters (SNAP, TANF, SSI) if you get them.
• School transcripts or HS diploma/GED (if you have them).
• Child ages and care needs (so they can help plan child care and schedule).

Timelines

• Same‑week intake is common; eligibility review and training approval typically 1–3 weeks depending on how fast documents are submitted and class start dates. Local boards may have waitlists when funds are tight; ask about start dates and “supportive services” early. (Local plan postings and center handbooks confirm processes; call your center for current intake times.) (workforce-ks.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Starting school before funding is approved. Many moms pay out‑of‑pocket for week 1 only to learn WIOA can’t backdate costs. Get your WIOA training approval in writing first. (See local training policies and center handbook.) (workforce-ks.com)
• Choosing a program not on the state’s Eligible Training Provider List—no WIOA payment then. Check inside your KANSASWORKS account before enrolling. KANSASWORKS training/provider tools. (kansasworks.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Use the Kansas Promise Scholarship (below) and the Pell Grant to cover the same program while you keep trying for WIOA supportive services.
• Ask about OJT or apprenticeship openings (employers can hire you sooner and train you while you earn). Kansas OJT and Apprenticeship info. (kansascommerce.gov)

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B. Pay for School: Kansas Promise Scholarship + Pell Grant + Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant

If you’re doing a two‑year degree or certificate in approved fields (healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing/building trades, early childhood, and certain locally‑designated fields), Kansas Promise can close the gap after other aid.

First action

• File the FAFSA, then apply for the Kansas Promise Scholarship with the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR). Awards are “first‑come, first‑served” and can close early if funds run out. Kansas Promise Scholarship (application portal, fields, rules). Deadline examples posted for 2025 terms (Spring 2025 deadline was April 1, 2025; future dates post on KBOR page—apply early). (kansasregents.org)

Exact amounts and rules

• Award covers tuition, required fees, books, and required materials after other grants/scholarships (last‑dollar). Lifetime cap: $20,000 or 68 credit hours—whichever comes first. You must live and work in Kansas for 2 years after you finish, or repay. KBOR Promise—award rules and caps. (kansasregents.org)
• Household income limits: $100,000\ast \ast forafamilyoftwo;\ast \ast$150,000 for a family of three; add $4,800 for each additional family member beyond three. KBOR Promise—eligibility. (kansasregents.org)

Pell Grant (federal)

• Maximum Pell for 2025–26 (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026): $7,395\ast \ast ;minimumPell\ast \ast$740. Your actual Pell depends on the new Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and enrollment intensity. U.S. Dept. of Education Dear Colleague Letter GEN‑25‑02 (May 29, 2025 update). (fsapartners.ed.gov)

Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant

• State grant of up to $1,000\ast \ast perprogramterm(maxtwoterms)or\ast \ast$1,000 if your program is ≤1 school year, not to exceed tuition/required fees. Many technical certificate/AAS programs qualify. See statute for exact caps. K.S.A. 74‑32,425 (amounts and limits). (kslegislature.gov)

Real‑world example (how the stack works)

• A Sedgwick County mom enters a 1‑year Medical Assistant certificate costing $4,800\ast \ast tuition/fees+\ast \ast$600 books. She gets Pell $2,000\ast \ast basedonincome.KansasPromisecoverstheremaining\ast \ast$3,400 (tuition/fees/books minus Pell). WIOA later adds help with scrubs and exam fees as supportive services. Amounts vary by your FAFSA and local board policies; this shows how last‑dollar Promise works with Pell and WIOA. KBOR Promise rules; WIOA local policies vary by area. (kansasregents.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the FAFSA or forgetting to re‑file each year; Promise requires FAFSA completion.
• Ignoring the 2‑year Kansas residency/work obligation after completion—if you move out of state right away, you may have to repay the scholarship. KBOR Promise scholarship agreement rules. (kansasregents.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your program isn’t Promise‑eligible, ask your Workforce Center about an Individual Training Account (ITA) and/or OJT or apprenticeship options in the same field. Workforce Alliance program policies and plans (Local Area IV example). (workforce-ks.com)

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C. Child Care While You Train or Work

Training doesn’t happen without reliable child care. Kansas can help pay.

First action

• Apply for the Kansas Child Care Assistance subsidy and choose a licensed provider. Call 1‑888‑369‑4777, use the application link, and search for licensed providers through KDHE/Child Care Aware. DCF Child Care Assistance: eligibility & application and KDHE licensed provider search. (dcf.ks.gov, khap.kdhe.ks.gov)

Who qualifies (2025)

• Kansas uses up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) for initial eligibility. As of April 1, 2025, examples of maximum monthly income for initial approval:
  • Family of 2: $5,171
  • Family of 3: $6,388
  • Family of 4: $7,605
  • Family of 5: $8,822 (add more for larger families—see full chart)
    Source and April 1, 2025 update memos: DCF Child Care Assistance (income chart) and DCF Implementation Memo—poverty/SMI update effective 4/1/2025. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

What it covers

• A portion of your child care cost while you work, are in approved education/training, or job search (with limits). You pay a sliding family share (co‑pay). DCF verifies the provider and pays them directly after enrollment. DCF Child Care program guide. (dcf.ks.gov)

How to find a provider fast

• Use Child Care Aware’s referral line 1‑877‑678‑2548 or search online. They help you compare openings, hours, rates, and quality. Child Care Aware of Kansas—Family Referral. (ks.childcareaware.org)

Timelines

• DCF must approve or deny child care within 30 days after you apply (if you submit all information). If the provider enrollment isn’t finished by day 30, DCF can still approve your financial eligibility and finish provider steps after. KEESM 1414—Disposition timelines (30 days for child care). (content.dcf.ks.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Picking a provider who isn’t licensed or enrolled with DCF—payments can’t start.
• Not reporting schedule changes—benefits can be adjusted or paused.
• Missing your review. Keep your documents ready (pay stubs, school schedule). (See DCF program rules and memos.) (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask your Workforce Center whether WIOA can provide limited transportation or other supportive services to help you reach a provider with openings, and whether evening/weekend training is available. Workforce Centers—supportive services vary by area; contact your center. (kansasworks.com)

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D. Vocational Rehabilitation (if you have a disability)

If you have any disability that makes working harder—physical, mental health, learning, vision/hearing—VR can fund training, accommodations, job placement help, and sometimes tools or licensing fees.

First action

• Call VR Customer Service 1‑866‑213‑9079 or your local VR office (see contacts). Ask for an application appointment. Kansas DCF Rehabilitation Services—contacts. (dcf.ks.gov)

Eligibility and timelines

• By federal regulation, VR decides eligibility within 60 days from application (unless you agree to an extension). Your Individual Plan for Employment is typically set within 90 days of eligibility. (Kansas reported average times under these limits, but allow for case load.) Kansas WIOA State Plan—VR timeliness standards. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

Examples of help

• Tuition/equipment for approved training, testing fees, job coaching, assistive technology, interpreter services, transportation related to your plan, and more—based on your individual plan.
• If you’re blind/low‑vision or deaf/hard‑of‑hearing, ask for the specialized units listed on the contact page. VR programs overview. (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Use WIOA training through the Workforce Center while VR processes your case, and share your VR release so the two programs can coordinate funding.

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E. Temporary Cash While You Train: TANF/TAF and Work Program

If you’re in a crisis with very low income, the Kansas Temporary Assistance for Families (TAF, Kansas’s TANF) program may provide short‑term cash plus required work activities and support services.

First action

• Apply online or at your local DCF office; customer service 1‑888‑369‑4777. After applying, ask about the Work Program assignment and support services (transportation, special needs, job‑related fees). DCF Cash Assistance—Successful Families (TAF). (dcf.ks.gov)

Cash amounts (maximums)

Kansas pays different max amounts by county group and family size. Examples from the official chart:

• Shared living (many households fall here), family of 3: $349–$375 depending on county group.
• Non‑shared living maxs are higher; see full chart.
  See DCF payment standards and note: add $61 for each additional person. DCF Cash Assistance (payment tables). Also aligned tables in policy references. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

Time limits and participation

• Lifetime limit is 24 months (with limited hardship extensions up to 36 months). Participation hours depend on family makeup; single parent with a child under age 6 generally needs 20 hours/week in primary work activities; otherwise 30 hours/week. See statute/policy for details. Kansas statutes and DCF Work Program page and DCF Work Program overview. (law.justia.com, dcf.ks.gov)

Support services under TANF Work Program

• Transportation allowances, special services (uniforms, small tools, car repair—case‑by‑case), fees for training components, and short‑term help after your case closes for work (transitional supports). Limits and documentation are in KEESM section 3410. KEESM 3410—TAF support services (04/2025). (content.dcf.ks.gov)

Timelines

• DCF must approve/deny cash within 45 days from the date you apply (if you complete interviews and verifications). KEESM 1414—45‑day cash standard. (content.dcf.ks.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing your Work Program appointments (can cause denials); not turning in receipts when support payments require proof.
• Assuming child care is automatic—submit your class/work schedule so child care can be authorized. (See DCF pages for required steps.) (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you’re denied or delayed, you can appeal; Kansas Legal Services explains the appeal steps. Meanwhile, pursue Workforce Center services (WIOA doesn’t require TANF). Kansas Legal Services—appealing DCF denials. (kansaslegalservices.org)

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F. Adult Education (GED/HSE), ESL, and Bridge to Training

If you need a GED or English classes before training, Kansas Adult Education centers can get you ready—often at low or no cost.

First action

• Contact your nearest Adult Education Center (state directory) and ask about GED prep, GED Ready vouchers, ESL, and co‑enrollment options with your Workforce Center. Kansas Adult Education Centers (KBOR directory). (kansasregents.org)

Costs

• Official Kansas GED test fees (as posted): $39\ast \ast permodule(\ast \ast$156 total for four tests), with $13\ast \ast permoduleretestwithin12months;GEDReadypracticetestsare\ast \ast$6 online or $4 through participating centers (some centers waive). Check your local program for vouchers/waivers. KBOR—Kansas GED Information and fees. (kansasregents.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask your Workforce Center about WIOA Youth (if 16–24) or Adult co‑enrollment to fund GED prep and a short occupational certificate at the same time. Local youth providers can help pregnant/parenting youth too. (Example youth program eligibility descriptions show parenting youth as a priority.) (workforce-ks.com, lifeskillsconnection.com)

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G. Registered Apprenticeship: Earn While You Learn

First action

• Search for an apprenticeship or ask your Workforce Center to connect you. For statewide help, call the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship (785‑296‑4161). Kansas Registered Apprenticeship (state office). (kansascommerce.gov)

Why this works for single moms

• You’re paid as an employee from day one, related instruction is structured, and you finish with a portable credential in fields like healthcare, construction, IT, and more. Local intermediaries (e.g., South Central Kansas) can also help place you. Workforce Alliance RA info for job‑seekers (local support). (workforce-ks.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Try OJT with a single employer (shorter training, similar “earn while you learn” model) or a short certificate + employer‑sponsored upskilling. Kansas OJT page. (kansascommerce.gov)

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H. Child Care and Daily Logistics: Finding Providers and Quality

• To check a provider’s license and inspection history: use KDHE’s online search. KDHE Child Care Licensing facility search. (khap.kdhe.ks.gov)
• For help comparing options and getting referrals: call 1‑877‑678‑2548 or use Child Care Aware’s search. Child Care Aware—Finding Quality Child Care. (ks.childcareaware.org)
• Kansas’s Links to Quality (L2Q) helps identify programs working on quality improvement—ask providers about their L2Q badges. Links to Quality (state QRIS info) and DCF L2Q page. (ks.childcareaware.org, dcf.ks.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan and call)

• Training money (WIOA): call your Workforce Center; statewide phones listed here. KANSASWORKS contact directory. Examples: Wichita (316‑771‑6800); Topeka (785‑235‑5627); Johnson County (913‑577‑5900); Kansas City, KS (913‑279‑2600). (kansasworks.com)
• Child care subsidy: DCF 1‑888‑369‑4777 (income up to $6,388/mo for family of 3 at initial approval). DCF Child Care Assistance (income chart & application). (dcf.ks.gov)
• Promise Scholarship: last‑dollar up to $20,000 lifetime or 68 credits; KBOR page has application and program lists. Kansas Promise Scholarship. (kansasregents.org)
• Pell Grant: max $7,395 for 2025–26. ED Dear Colleague Letter (GEN‑25‑02). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• VR (if you have a disability): Toll‑free 1‑866‑213‑9079. VR contacts page. (dcf.ks.gov)

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Tables you can save

1) Which training pays for what?

2) Kansas Child Care Assistance – Initial Income Limits (effective Apr 1, 2025)

Source: DCF Child Care Assistance page and April 1, 2025 implementation memo. Eligibility & income chart. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

3) TANF/TAF Cash Payment Examples (maximums)

Add $61 for each additional person. Check the full table and your county group on DCF’s page. DCF Cash Assistance payment standards. (dcf.ks.gov)

4) Typical Processing Timelines You Can Expect

5) Key Kansas Workforce Center Numbers (save these)

Full directory (with more cities and mobile centers): KANSASWORKS contact directory. (kansasworks.com)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Photo ID and Social Security numbers for you and children (for DCF programs and WIOA).
• Proof of Kansas residency (lease, utility bill).
• Income proof: last 30–60 days of pay stubs; benefit letters (TANF, SNAP, SSI, unemployment); child support received.
• School/training documents: acceptance letter, class schedule, program cost sheet, books/tools list.
• Child care info: provider name, license number (or plan to select), hours needed.
• Transportation plan: car registration/insurance (if seeking help with repairs), bus route or ride share plan.
• Bank statements if requested for need‑based programs.
• Any disability documentation if applying to VR.

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Realistic Timelines & How to Stack Programs

• Week 1: Call your Workforce Center; schedule WIOA intake; open your KANSASWORKS account. KANSASWORKS job seeker portal. (kansasworks.com)
• Week 1–2: File FAFSA and Kansas Promise application (if your program is eligible). KBOR Promise page. (kansasregents.org)
• Week 1–3: Apply for Child Care Assistance and pick a provider; DCF has 30 days to decide. DCF Child Care. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Within a month: If you have a disability that affects training/work, file a VR application (eligibility decision due within 60 days). VR contacts. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
• If bills can’t wait: Apply for TANF (approval in 45 days if eligible) and ask for Work Program support services while you ramp into training. DCF Cash (TAF). (content.dcf.ks.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid (seen all the time)

• Starting classes before your WIOA approval letter.
• Forgetting to file FAFSA—Promise won’t process without it.
• Picking an unlicensed child care provider (no DCF payments).
• Missing DCF/Workforce appointments; if you can’t make it, call ahead to reschedule.
• Not keeping copies/screenshots of your application submissions and confirmation emails.

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What to Do When You Hit Delays

• Ask for a supervisor callback if your application is past the 30‑day (child care) or 45‑day (cash) processing standard. KEESM 1414 processing standards. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• If DCF denies you and you believe it’s wrong, consider an appeal (free). Kansas Legal Services—how to appeal DCF denials. (kansaslegalservices.org)
• While waiting, ask your Workforce Center about short courses that start soon (CNA, CDL, CompTIA, welding basics) and about OJT placements that can hire you now. Wichita/Local Area IV policies & programs page (example). (workforce-ks.com)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Resources and Tips

Kansas programs serve all families. Here are specific doors to knock on:

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Workforce Centers follow equal opportunity rules and have Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and nondiscrimination policies; ask for any needed accommodations. (Example: Workforce Alliance LEP policy updated Sept 2023.) LEP policy—Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas. (workforce-ks.com)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply to VR for your own employment plan; ask DCF about child care exceptions and supports. VR contacts and DCF child care policy notes for school/work needs. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Veteran single moms: Use the KanVet portal via Kansas Dept. of Commerce to connect to employment, education, and benefits (ask your Workforce Center to make a warm referral). Job Seeker Services—KanVet is listed here. (kansascommerce.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas provides refugee employment, ESL, case management, and job placement services—call (913‑433‑2100) or connect online. Refugee Employment Services—CCNEK. (catholiccharitiesks.org)
• Tribal citizens: Contact your tribe’s education/employment office. Examples: Prairie Band Potawatomi Education (Adult Education, Job Placement & Training) (785‑966‑3926); PBPN Vocational Rehabilitation (785‑966‑8331); Sac & Fox Nation of Missouri contacts listed online; Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas main offices (Horton) (785‑486‑2131). PBPN Education & Training; PBPN VR; Sac & Fox Nation—job listings/contacts; Kickapoo Tribe contact directory entries. (pbpindiantribe.com, sacandfoxks.com, nativeministriesinternational.growthzoneapp.com)
• Rural single moms (long drives, limited providers): Use the KANSASWORKS Mobile Workforce Centers and ask about remote/online training; Child Care Aware can help locate providers across county lines. KANSASWORKS contact (includes mobiles); Child Care Aware—referrals. (kansasworks.com, ks.childcareaware.org)
• Single fathers: All programs in this guide apply equally if you meet the eligibility rules; call the same numbers.
• Language access: Ask for an interpreter at Workforce Centers or DCF. (Workforce Alliance posts LEP policy; DCF provides multilingual services and TTY.) LEP policy—Workforce Alliance and DCF contact page w/ TTY & location list. (workforce-ks.com, dcf.ks.gov)

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Local Organizations and Supports (add these to your phone)

• Dress for Success Wichita (suiting, job retention support): (316‑262‑3960), 500 S. Topeka St., Suite 100, Wichita. DFS Wichita—contact and services. Call for appointment. (wichita.dressforsuccess.org)
• Women’s Employment Network (Kansas City metro): career coaching, workshops, financial coaching. Main line (816‑822‑8083); 4328 Madison Ave., Kansas City, MO (serves KS side). WEN contact page. (kcwen.org)
• Goodwill of Western Missouri & Eastern Kansas (Kansas City metro & Olathe resource center): career services and digital skills; call/text (816‑842‑7425) (select option 2). Goodwill Community Resource Centers & services. (mokangoodwill.org)
• Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (workforce and refugee services): (913‑433‑2100). Employment services. (catholiccharitiesks.org)

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Steps to Choose a Training Path (quick scan)

• Pick a target job that hires in Kansas (healthcare, manufacturing, IT, the trades, CDL). Your Workforce Center can show local wages and openings. (BLS and KDOL show current wages; example: Wichita average hourly wage $27.34 in May 2024, with higher pay in engineering/IT/healthcare). BLS Wichita OEWS release July 8, 2025. (bls.gov)
• Confirm your program is on the Eligible Training Provider List or is an apprenticeship/OJT with a hiring employer.
• Stack funding: Pell + Promise + WIOA (supportive services) + child care subsidy.
• Get your schedule right: ask for evening/online options and line up child care hours that match.

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What to Bring to Each Office (by program)

• Workforce Center (WIOA): ID, SSN, proof of income/benefits, school estimate sheet, resume, and child care needs.
• DCF (child care, TANF): IDs, children’s birthdates/citizenship documents, income verification, lease/utility, school/work schedule, provider info. DCF Child Care; Cash Assistance info and (https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/pages/cash/cashassistance.aspx). (dcf.ks.gov)
• KBOR Promise: FAFSA done, Promise online application, and your college’s financial aid office completes the award. KBOR Promise application portal. (kansasregents.org)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Kansas‑specific)

1. Can WIOA pay for my entire program?
   Sometimes. It depends on your local board’s policy and budget; many students combine Pell, Promise, and an ITA. Always apply early and ask about supportive services (testing, scrubs, tools). Local plan/policy references; Workforce Center handbook. (workforce-ks.com)
2. How fast can I start training?
   Short programs (CNA, CDL, basic IT) often have monthly starts. With complete documents, WIOA approvals often take 1–3 weeks. Confirm intake availability at your nearest center. KANSASWORKS directory. (kansasworks.com)
3. If I’m already working part‑time, can I still get child care help while in school?
   Yes, if you meet income limits and your education/training is approved. DCF lists education/training as an allowable reason. DCF Child Care Assistance. (dcf.ks.gov)
4. What if my TANF time limit ran out?
   You can still use Workforce Center services and Promise/Pell. TANF has a 24‑month lifetime limit (extensions up to 36 months in hardship cases), but WIOA and Promise are separate. KSA 39‑709; DCF Cash overview. (law.justia.com)
5. Does Kansas Promise cover four‑year degrees?
   Generally no—it covers two‑year associate degrees and technical certificates (some transfer programs eligible under specific agreements). KBOR Promise rules. (kansasregents.org)
6. I need a GED first—how long and how much?
   GED costs $39\ast \ast pertest(\ast \ast$156 total). Your local Adult Education Center can prepare you and may have vouchers. KBOR GED info & fees. (kansasregents.gov)
7. Can VR help if I have anxiety or ADHD?
   Yes, if it creates a barrier to employment. VR can fund supports and training tied to your plan. Call 1‑866‑213‑9079. VR contacts. (dcf.ks.gov)
8. My provider says they don’t take subsidy yet—what now?
   DCF can enroll eligible providers; approval is required before payments. If enrollment takes time, DCF can still decide your financial eligibility and finish provider steps afterward. KEESM 1414 note for child care processing when provider enrollment is pending. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
9. Is apprenticeship only construction?
   No—Kansas apprenticeships exist in healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and more. Call the state office (785‑296‑4161) or ask your Workforce Center. Kansas RA office. (kansascommerce.gov)
10. I live in a small town far from a center. Do I still have options?
    Yes. Use the Mobile Workforce Centers and online services. Child Care Aware can help locate providers across counties. KANSASWORKS contact (mobiles) and Child Care Aware. (kansasworks.com, ks.childcareaware.org)

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Resources by Region (examples with phones)

• Northeast (Topeka/Lawrence/KC): Topeka (785‑235‑5627); Lawrence (785‑840‑9675); Wyandotte County (913‑279‑2600); Johnson County (913‑577‑5900). Full directory. (kansasworks.com)
• South Central (Wichita/El Dorado/Ark City): Wichita (316‑771‑6800); Butler (El Dorado) (316‑321‑2350); Cowley (Ark City) (620‑441‑5313). Workforce Alliance locations page. (workforce-ks.com)
• Southwest (Garden City/Dodge City/Liberal): Garden City (620‑276‑2339); Dodge City (620‑227‑2149); Liberal (620‑417‑1958). KANSASWORKS contact page. (kansasworks.com)
• North Central/West (Hays/Colby/Salina/Manhattan): Hays (785‑625‑5654); Colby (785‑462‑2024); Salina (785‑827‑0385); Manhattan (785‑539‑5691). KANSASWORKS contact page. (kansasworks.com)

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What Kansas Employers Look For (so your training pays off)

• Credentials in high‑demand fields (CNA/PN/RN, welding, machining/CNC, CDL‑A, cybersecurity, medical coding, HVAC, early childhood education). Workforce Centers and BLS reports show area wages; Wichita’s mean hourly wage was $27.34 in May 2024; computer/math and healthcare majors pay above average. BLS Wichita OEWS release 7/8/2025. (bls.gov)
• Consistent attendance and reliable child care—line this up before class starts.
• Certifications and clean documentation (IDs, driving record for CDL, immunizations for healthcare).

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), Kansas Department of Commerce/KANSASWORKS, Kansas Board of Regents, U.S. Department of Education, and other established nonprofits.

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.

Editorial standards reference: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (workforce-ks.com)

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change at any time. Always verify with the official agency links provided in this guide before you apply or enroll.
• This guide is informational and not legal advice. For appeals or legal questions, contact Kansas Legal Services.
• Security tips: only submit personal information through official .gov or established nonprofit sites linked here; avoid public Wi‑Fi when uploading IDs; save confirmation pages and emails.
• Health and safety: if your training requires vaccinations, physicals, or drug screens, follow your provider’s official instructions and use licensed clinics.

Helpful agency security and privacy pages are linked wherever possible (for example, KDHE licensing, DCF program pages, and KBOR portals cited above).

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You’ve got the phone numbers, amounts, and forms. Pick a program, make the first call today, and use the Plan B options if something stalls. This is the shortest path from training to a better‑paying job in Kansas.

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🏛️More Kentucky Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kentucky

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