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Job Training for Single Mothers in Missouri

Missouri Job Training for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, Missouri‑specific hub to help you start or move into a better‑paying job, fast. Every program below links straight to the official source and includes the numbers single moms ask for first: who qualifies, what it pays or covers, how to apply, and how long it usually takes.


Find your nearest Missouri Job Center (phone numbers included). Missouri Job Centers are the front door to most training dollars, including WIOA, apprenticeships, and referrals to SkillUP and TANF/MWA. (jobs.mo.gov)

Quick Help Box (start here)

  • Call your closest Missouri Job Center today and ask for “training help under WIOA.” Example numbers: St. Louis County–St. Ann 314‑615‑6010, Kansas City–Paseo 816‑889‑2165, Springfield 417‑887‑4343. They screen you and can pay for approved training or apprenticeships. See the full list and numbers. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • On SNAP? Ask for SkillUP. It covers short‑term training, uniforms, books, test fees, minor car repairs, and job coaching. Start at SkillUP, Missouri DSS. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Getting TANF cash? You’re required to work with MWA (Missouri Work Assistance), which can fund short courses, tools, and transportation to get you job‑ready. Contact MWA via DSS: MWA program page. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Prefer “earn‑while‑you‑learn”? Ask your Job Center about Registered Apprenticeships and pre‑apprenticeships (like BUD Construction Apprentice Ready). See Missouri’s current apprenticeship/pre‑apprenticeship directory and contacts: JobsMo Apprenticeship Grant Resource Directory. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Going back to college or a short‑term credential? Check Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant (covers remaining tuition/fees; up to $500 if your aid already covers tuition). See Missouri partners’ details and how to apply: OTC Fast Track overview and East Central College Fast Track details. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu)

How Missouri Pays for Job Training (and how to get it)

Start with your local Missouri Job Center. They screen you for WIOA funding, connect you to approved training, and refer you to other supports (childcare referrals, SNAP E&T SkillUP, apprenticeships). Use the state’s locator with phone numbers: Find a Missouri Job Center. (jobs.mo.gov)

Table A. Your main training routes in Missouri, at a glance

Route Who it’s for What it covers Where to apply
WIOA training (ITA) Adults with low income or laid off workers; also youth via local policies Tuition/fees for approved programs; supportive services (transportation, supplies) vary by region Start at your Job Center: Find a Missouri Job Center. Policy refs: ITA Policy. (jobs.mo.gov)
Apprenticeships Anyone 16+ (most require 18+); “earn while you learn” Paid on‑the‑job training + related instruction; some pre‑apprenticeships are 4–6 weeks See current programs and contacts: Apprenticeship Directory. (jobs.mo.gov)
SNAP E&T SkillUP SNAP recipients Short‑term training, books, uniforms, tools, minor car repairs, job coaching SkillUP – DSS. (mydss.mo.gov)
TANF/MWA Families getting Temporary Assistance cash Required work activities; can fund short trainings/tools; childcare referrals MWA – DSS. (mydss.mo.gov)
Fast Track Grant Adults returning to school, in high‑need fields Fills remaining tuition/fees; if fully covered, up to $500 Apply in MDHEWD portal; see how it works at OTC Fast Track and ECC Fast Track. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your Job Center says local funds are tight, ask when the next quarterly allocation opens and to be put on the waitlist. Also ask about on‑the‑job training placements (employer gets reimbursed while you’re paid). Use the same Job Center contacts above. (jobs.mo.gov)

WIOA Training (through Missouri Job Centers)

Most single moms use WIOA because it can pay tuition for in‑demand short programs (healthcare, CDL, manufacturing, IT). You must pick a program on the ETPL and show need (low income/dislocated worker). Missouri’s ITA and income‑guideline policies are current for 2025: ITA Policy 14‑2024 (posted 6/3/2025) and Income Guidelines Policy 13‑2024 (updated 5/30/2025). (jobs.mo.gov)

Action steps (don’t bury the lead):

  • Call your nearest Job Center and say, “I want to enroll in WIOA training. Can I get an intake appointment this week?” Use the locator with numbers: Find a Missouri Job Center. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Bring documents to the intake (ID, SSN, proof of Missouri address, proof of income or UI, children’s ages for childcare planning).
  • Ask: “What’s my region’s current ITA cap and supportive‑services policy?” Caps vary by Local Workforce Development Board. The state confirms local boards make final determinations. ETPL overview. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Pick a program from the ETPL via MoSCORES and ask your case manager to issue the ITA to that school. ETPL system. (jobs.mo.gov)

Reality checks and tips:

  • WIOA is not automatic. Expect an eligibility review, career assessment, and a training justification (to show your program leads to in‑demand jobs in your area). That’s required by state policy. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Timelines: orientation + eligibility + training plan can take 2–4 weeks if you show up fast with documents; longer if classes start later or funds roll over next quarter. Ask your case manager about timing in your region.
  • Supportive services (gas cards, books, test fees, tools) are allowed but amounts differ by region and budget. Your board’s policy controls the exact dollar caps. When unsure, ask staff to show you the written local policy and the state Supportive Services guidance. See Missouri OWD Issuances hub for current policies. (jobs.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for alternatives the same Job Center can fund: short On‑the‑Job Training or Paid Work Experience while you wait for a class seat. See the state’s training & certification page. Missouri Training & Certification. (mo.gov)

Apprenticeships and Pre‑Apprenticeships (Earn While You Learn)

If you need a paycheck now and a career ladder, this is it. Many Missouri pre‑apprenticeships run 4–6 weeks and feed directly into paid Registered Apprenticeships.

  • Use the state’s current Apprenticeship Grant Resource Directory to find options and contact points. Examples include:
    • BUD – St. Louis Construction Pre‑Apprenticeship (5 weeks; OSHA‑10). Apply via Missouri Works Initiative.
    • Missouri Apprentice Ready (multiple regions; 5 weeks; OSHA‑10).
    • C.A.R.E. Energy Pre‑Apprenticeship (Urban League St. Louis; phone 314‑658‑9303).

    Directory and end dates are posted here: JobsMo Apprenticeship Directory. (jobs.mo.gov)

How to apply fast:

  • Call your nearest Job Center and ask to be referred to the apprenticeship/pre‑apprenticeship listed in the directory; they can also check WIOA funds to cover boots, tools, or transit during training. Job Center contact list. (jobs.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

SkillUP (SNAP Employment & Training)

If you get SNAP, SkillUP is usually the quickest way to start a short, job‑ready class (CNA, CDL, welding basics, customer service, IT support). Missouri’s SkillUP can buy books, uniforms, tools, pay testing fees, and even help with minor car repairs that get you to training or work. Apply directly here: SkillUP – DSS. (mydss.mo.gov)

  • Coverage examples straight from DSS: “pay for short‑term training and certifications,” “buy clothing, books, supplies, or tools,” and “pay for minor car repairs.” (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Provider map by county (many Community Action Agencies deliver SkillUP): see the state plan’s provider/county table for 2024‑2027. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re not on SNAP, ask the Job Center about WIOA or local scholarships; if you are on SNAP but need childcare, ask for a referral to Child Care Subsidy via DSS Children’s Division’s “Help for Families.” Child Care—Help for Families. (dss.mo.gov)

TANF Cash + Missouri Work Assistance (MWA)

If you’re getting Temporary Assistance (TANF) cash, you’re required to participate with MWA. The MWA program can fund short credentials, supplies, transportation help, and connect you to jobs. Start here: Missouri Work Assistance – DSS. (mydss.mo.gov)

Missouri TANF cash benefit amounts (maximum monthly grant, statewide):

  • 1 person: $136
  • 2 people: $234
  • 3 people: $292
  • 4 people: $342
  • 5 people: $388

(The state sets grants at 34.526% of the “consolidated standard.” See Appendix B chart.) Appendix B—Consolidated Standard and 34.526% amounts (official DSS manual PDF). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)

  • Missouri enforces a 45‑month lifetime limit on TANF cash for adults (with exemptions). See DSS manual. (dssmanuals.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If TANF is not a fit or you’re near time limits, ask your Job Center about WIOA training or paid OJT. If you lose TANF due to increased earnings, ask MWA/DSS about Transitional Medical Assistance for continued MO HealthNet while working. (dss.mo.gov)

Table B. Missouri TANF cash grant maximums (you can scan this)

Household size Max TA grant/month
1 $136
2 $234
3 $292
4 $342
5 $388
6 $431

Source: DSS Appendix B—“34.526% of Need.” Amounts used in Missouri eligibility/grant calculations. (dssmanuals.mo.gov)

Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant (for adults returning to school)

If you’re at least 25 (or meet the two‑years‑out‑of‑school rule), Fast Track can fill tuition/fee gaps for high‑need programs at Missouri colleges, noncredit short‑term courses, and some apprenticeships.

  • What it pays: covers remaining tuition/fees after grants; if tuition is fully covered by other aid, Fast Track pays up to $500 for other education costs. See Missouri partner college pages: OTC Fast Track overview and ECC Fast Track details. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu)
  • Income limit for eligibility (per colleges citing state rules): 80,000∗∗jointfilers;∗∗80,000** joint filers; **40,000 other filers (Adjusted Gross Income). See program details on Missouri campuses. (students.otc.edu, semo.edu)
  • Application: use MDHEWD’s State Financial Aid Portal (open for 2025‑26). See college guidance pointing to the portal. (blogs.missouristate.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask your college’s workforce office about short noncredit courses the Job Center can fund with WIOA; or use SkillUP if you’re on SNAP. (mydss.mo.gov)

Table C. Which option fits your situation?

Your situation Best first step Why
On SNAP and need a fast credential SkillUP application Pays short training costs, gear, and minor car fixes; quick start. (mydss.mo.gov)
Need paid training now Pre‑apprenticeship → Apprenticeship Earn while learning; structured pathways; multiple sectors. (jobs.mo.gov)
Recently laid off or low income WIOA ITA through Job Center Tuition/fees for approved programs; supportive services possible. (jobs.mo.gov)
Returning adult, longer program Fast Track Grant Fills tuition gaps; up to $500 if full tuition covered. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu)
On TANF cash MWA (required) Short trainings, work experience, tools/supplies. (mydss.mo.gov)

Childcare while you train or work

No training sticks if childcare falls apart. Here’s how to line it up:

  • Ask your SkillUP/MWA coach or Job Center to refer you to Child Care Subsidy. Start with DSS “Help for Families” page and the provider search. Child Care—Help for Families. (dss.mo.gov)
  • For quick provider matches and openings, use Child Care Aware of Missouri via that same DSS page.
  • If your child is under age 3 and your income is under 185% of poverty, you may qualify for Home Visiting supports (screenings, coaching). See the program page and regional contacts listed by DSS. (dss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask your training provider or Job Center about on‑site childcare partnerships, alternative class schedules, or evening cohorts. If you’re on TANF/SNAP, ask your caseworker to document childcare as a barrier so they can approve extra support time. (mydss.mo.gov)

Where to go in your region (numbers you can call this week)

Use the state map to find all sites. Below are high‑traffic centers for fast help. Full directory with phone numbers. (jobs.mo.gov)

  • St. Louis County—St. Ann Job Center: 314‑615‑6010 (WIOA training, apprenticeships, job search)
  • St. Louis County—Ferguson Job Center: 314‑244‑8020
  • St. Louis City—SLATE Job Center (check site for current hours via the state locator)
  • Kansas City—Full Employment Council (Paseo): 816‑889‑2165
  • Independence Job Center: 816‑521‑5700
  • Springfield Job Center: 417‑887‑4343
  • Columbia Job Center: 573‑441‑6361
  • Joplin Job Center: 417‑629‑3000
  • St. Charles County Job Center: 636‑255‑6060 (toll‑free 1‑888‑728‑5627)
  • Rolla Job Center: 573‑368‑2354

Real‑world examples (how single moms actually use these)

  • A mom in Springfield used SkillUP to cover a CNA class fee, scrubs, and a state exam. The program also paid for a minor car repair so she wouldn’t miss clinicals. She transitioned into a hospital apprenticeship pathway. Source for SkillUP supports: DSS program description. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • A Kansas City mom met WIOA staff at the FEC Job Center, got an ITA for CDL, and received help with exam fees and PPE. (Specific WIOA caps depend on the local board; always ask your center’s current policy.) State confirms local boards control final approvals. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • A St. Louis mom entered the BUD pre‑apprenticeship (5 weeks, OSHA‑10) and then a paid building trades apprenticeship. Contact examples are posted in the state directory. (jobs.mo.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Starting a class before your ITA (WIOA) is approved. You risk paying out of pocket. Always wait for the written authorization.
  • Picking a school that’s not on Missouri’s ETPL. WIOA cannot pay if it’s not listed. Verify on MoSCORES/ETPL. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Not asking for supportive services. Many moms miss out on help with uniforms, tests, or minor car repairs (SkillUP/MWA). Ask in writing. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Assuming childcare isn’t covered. Ask for a referral to Child Care Subsidy early, not after your class starts. (dss.mo.gov)

Timelines you can expect

  • Job Center intake to ITA approval: commonly 2–4 weeks if documents are ready (varies by region and class start date).
  • SkillUP referral to class start: 1–3 weeks for short courses; longer if you need basic skills first. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Pre‑apprenticeship: many run 4–6 weeks (examples in the state directory list 5‑week cohorts with OSHA‑10). (jobs.mo.gov)

Application Checklist (bring these to your first appointment)

  • Government photo ID and Social Security card (your kids’ SSNs too if applying for DSS benefits)
  • Proof of Missouri address (lease, utility bill)
  • Proof of income (recent pay stubs), or UI letter, or zero‑income statement
  • Children’s birth certificates (if you’ll seek childcare help)
  • School program info: name, start date, cost sheet from the ETPL program page

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Dollars and eligibility (the numbers that matter)

  • TANF cash grant (max) example: family of 3 = $292/month statewide. Chart in DSS Appendix B. (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
  • TANF lifetime limit for adults: 45 months in Missouri (some exemptions). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
  • Fast Track award: fills remaining tuition/fees; if tuition fully covered, up to 500∗∗.Incomecaptypically∗∗500**. Income cap typically **80,000 joint / $40,000 single. See Missouri campus pages summarizing state rules. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu, semo.edu)
  • SkillUP and MWA can pay for specific training costs and small transportation/repair items; DSS lists these explicitly on the program pages. Amounts vary by provider and need. (mydss.mo.gov)

Local organizations and nonprofits that actually help

These are credible Missouri partners tied into the systems above.

  • Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis – C.A.R.E. Energy Pre‑Apprenticeship: contact 314‑658‑9303 (posted in the state apprenticeship directory). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Missouri Works Initiative (runs BUD Construction Apprentice Ready and “Apprenticeship Ready” cohorts statewide). Ask your Job Center to connect you (listed in the directory). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Better Family Life (St. Louis) – delivers MWA and SkillUP services; workforce coaching and supports. See program info. (betterfamilylife.org)
  • LINC (Kansas City region) – MWA and SkillUP locations in Jackson/Clay/Platte/Cass/Ray; main line 816‑303‑0660. (kclinc.org)

Diverse Communities: targeted help and access

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your Job Center for a contact who is trained on inclusive services and for a referral to supportive employers. Missouri’s WIOA nondiscrimination policies require meaningful access, including for LEP and LGBTQ+ communities. See OWD Issuances on access and EP policies. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Call Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation (statewide gateway via DSS “Other helpful numbers,” or ask your Job Center for a DVOP/VR referral). DSS lists core numbers and translation services. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Ask for the Job Center’s JVSG staff (DVOP/LVER) for priority of service and veteran‑specific training referrals. Use the Job Center directory and ask for “veteran services.” (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: SkillUP and WIOA can include ESL/ABE components. Ask your Job Center for an ESL referral and for a SkillUP provider in your county (see DSS E&T provider list by county). (wioaplans.ed.gov)
  • Tribal citizens: Ask your Job Center to connect you with any WIOA Indian and Native American (INA) grantee serving your county; they coordinate training and supportive services alongside WIOA Adult.
  • Rural single moms: Use the Job Center list to find affiliate centers and access points with set weekly hours (many host training sign‑ups on specific days). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Single fathers: Every program above is gender‑neutral. If you have custody or are the primary caregiver, you can access the same routes.
  • Language access: Job Centers and DSS offer translation and Relay Missouri access; DSS lists translation contacts and relay info. (dss.mo.gov)

Region‑by‑Region: quick contacts

Use these to book an intake this week (full list via state locator). (jobs.mo.gov)

  • St. Louis County—St. Ann: 314‑615‑6010 | Ferguson: 314‑244‑8020
  • St. Charles County: 636‑255‑6060 (toll‑free 1‑888‑728‑5627)
  • St. Joseph: 816‑387‑2380
  • Kansas City—Paseo (FEC): 816‑889‑2165 | Independence: 816‑521‑5700
  • Columbia: 573‑441‑6361 | Rolla: 573‑368‑2354
  • Springfield: 417‑887‑4343 | Joplin: 417‑629‑3000
  • Branson: 417‑334‑4156 | Sedalia: 660‑530‑5627

Step‑by‑step: getting approved without delays

  • Book a Job Center intake (phone numbers above). Say you want training under WIOA or a referral to SkillUP/MWA.
  • Bring your documents (see the Application Checklist above).
  • Pick an ETPL program that leads to a job in your region (case managers must justify “in‑demand” occupations per state policy). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Ask in writing for supportive services you’ll need (childcare referral, gas assistance, uniforms, testing fees). SkillUP/MWA pages list what’s possible. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Confirm start date, payment authorization, and who pays which fees before day one.

Tables you can screenshot

Table D. Fast Track Grant essentials

Item Details
What it pays Remaining tuition/fees after grants; if fully covered, up to $500 for other education costs
Income limits 80,000∗∗joint/∗∗80,000** joint / **40,000 single (AGI)
Where to apply MDHEWD State Financial Aid Portal (see campus instructions)
Good for Certificates, associate degrees, some noncredit courses and apprenticeships in high‑need fields

Sources: Missouri college pages summarizing state Fast Track rules. (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu, semo.edu)

Table E. Sample pre‑apprenticeship options (check the directory for current cohorts)

Program Region Length Credential(s) Contact
BUD Construction Pre‑Apprenticeship St. Louis area ~5 weeks OSHA‑10 Apply via Missouri Works Initiative (see directory)
Missouri Apprentice Ready Multiple regions ~5 weeks OSHA‑10 Apply via Missouri Works Initiative (see directory)
C.A.R.E. Energy Pre‑Apprenticeship St. Louis area Varies Entry energy credentials Urban League 314‑658‑9303

Source: State Apprenticeship Grant Resource Directory. (jobs.mo.gov)

10 Missouri‑Specific FAQs

  1. Where do I apply for WIOA training funds?
  1. Is there a statewide dollar cap for WIOA training?
  • Missouri does not publish a single statewide cap. Local Workforce Development Boards set the caps and supportive‑services rules. Ask your center for your region’s policy. ETPL/local approval explanation. (jobs.mo.gov)
  1. Can WIOA or SkillUP pay for my uniform, test, or tools?
  • Yes, if approved. Missouri’s SkillUP page lists books, supplies, tools, uniforms, and minor car repairs. MWA can do similar for TANF recipients. (mydss.mo.gov)
  1. Are there fast, paid training options?
  • Yes. Apprenticeships pay wages while you learn. Use the state’s directory for current programs and contacts. (jobs.mo.gov)
  1. I’m on TANF. What’s my monthly cash amount?
  • It depends on family size. Example: family of 3 = $292/month. See the full statewide chart in DSS Appendix B. (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
  1. How long can I receive TANF?
  • Missouri enforces a 45‑month lifetime limit for adults (with certain exemptions). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
  1. I’m going back to school part‑time. Any grant help?
  • Check Fast Track. It fills tuition/fee gaps and can pay up to $500 if your tuition is fully covered. Apply via the state financial aid portal (see college instructions). (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu)
  1. I need childcare to attend class. Where do I start?
  • Ask the Job Center or your SkillUP/MWA coach for a Child Care Subsidy referral and use the DSS provider search. (dss.mo.gov)
  1. Who qualifies as “low income” for WIOA Adult?
  • Missouri follows federal HHS Poverty Guidelines or 70% of LLSIL per its policy. Staff use the current year’s income tables to determine eligibility. (jobs.mo.gov)
  1. How do I pick an approved school?
  • Search the ETPL (MoSCORES). Only ETPL programs can be paid by WIOA. Ask your case manager to confirm your program’s listing before enrolling. (jobs.mo.gov)

What to do if you get stuck (Plan B ladder)

  • Call the Family Support Division info line (855‑373‑4636) and ask about SkillUP or MWA if you receive SNAP/TANF. See DSS “helpful numbers.” (dss.mo.gov)
  • Ask your Job Center about OJT positions—paid work with training reimbursement to the employer—while you wait for a class seat. (mo.gov)
  • If transportation is the barrier, put a written request for supportive services (gas cards, repairs) in your case notes (SkillUP/MWA). (mydss.mo.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (JobsMoGov), Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), and established nonprofits listed in state directories. It follows our Editorial Standards, uses only official sources, is regularly updated and monitored, but is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please email corrections or local updates to info@asinglemother.org.

Disclaimer

Information here is based on official Missouri sources and current program pages as of September 2025. Programs change, funding can pause between quarters, and local Workforce Boards set some dollar caps. Always verify amounts, dates, addresses, and eligibility with the agency before you enroll or pay fees. Do not email or text your SSN, EBT number, or full medical details to anyone; use official portals or in‑person appointments. This site provides general information, not legal advice or case management.

Key sources cited:

  • Missouri Job Centers locator with phone numbers and hours. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Missouri ETPL/MoSCORES overview. (jobs.mo.gov)
  • OWD ITA Policy (posted 6/3/2025); OWD Federal Income Level Guidelines policy (updated 2025). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • Apprenticeship Grant Resource Directory (programs and contacts). (jobs.mo.gov)
  • DSS SkillUP program page (covered supports). (mydss.mo.gov)
  • DSS MWA program page (covered supports, requirements). (mydss.mo.gov)
  • DSS Child Care “Help for Families.” (dss.mo.gov)
  • TANF grant amounts chart (Appendix B). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
  • DSS helpful phone numbers and translation/relay access. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Fast Track program summaries and income limits (college pages pointing to MDHEWD portal). (students.otc.edu, eastcentral.edu, semo.edu)

If something here is outdated or missing, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48–72 hours.

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