Pennsylvania Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single moms in Pennsylvania who need job training that actually leads to a paycheck. It shows you the fastest, lowest‑cost paths, the exact phone numbers to call, how to get child care covered while you train, the dollar amounts you can request for transportation, and what to do if one route is blocked.

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Quick Help (start here)

• PA CareerLink: ask for WIOA training funds (ITAs) and orientation. Statewide site to find your local office: Find your PA CareerLink office → “Help” → “PA CareerLink Offices.” Or call Philadelphia PA CareerLink at 1‑833‑750‑JOBS (5627), Pittsburgh PA CareerLink at (412) 248‑JOBS (5627). (philaworks.org, careerlinkpittsburgh.org)
• Child care while you train: apply for Child Care Works through your county ELRC; income must be at or below 200% of FPL (see exact dollar limits below). CCW Helpline 1‑877‑472‑5437. Child Care Works – eligibility and find your ELRC. (pa.gov)
• On SNAP or TANF? Ask your CAO caseworker to enroll you in SNAP E&T, KEYS, or EARN so you can get “special allowances” for bus passes, mileage, tools, clothing, and even a basic car purchase while you’re in approved training. Statewide Customer Service Center 1‑877‑395‑8930 (Philadelphia 215‑560‑7226). (pa.gov)
• Community college KEYS program (for TANF/SNAP students): call your campus KEYS office (examples: HACC 717‑780‑1181, DCCC 610‑359‑5231, CCAC KEYS info page linked below). They help with transportation, books/supplies, and count class/study time toward work activity hours. (hacc.edu, dccc.edu, ccac.edu)
• Apprenticeships (earn while you learn): ATO main line (717) 787‑6997 or email apprenticeship@pa.gov. Search registered programs: Find a Registered Apprenticeship Program in PA. (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov)
• If you recently lost your job due to foreign trade impacts: ask about TAA training (tuition, fees, supplies covered; up to 104 weeks of income support after UC runs out). Contact UC Trade unit via 888‑313‑7284 and your local PA CareerLink. (pa.gov)

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Quick‑Reference Cheat Sheet (numbers you’ll likely need)

• PA CareerLink office finder: PA CareerLink – Offices → Help → Offices.
• Child care helpline: 1‑877‑472‑5437; county ELRC list linked in Child Care section below. (pa.gov)
• DHS Customer Service (benefits/SNAP/TANF): 1‑877‑395‑8930; Philadelphia 215‑560‑7226. (pa.gov)
• Apprenticeships: (717) 787‑6997, apprenticeship@pa.gov. (pacareerlink.pa.gov)
• KEYS (examples): HACC 717‑780‑1181; DCCC 610‑359‑5231; Penn Highlands 814‑410‑1455. (hacc.edu, dccc.edu, pennhighlands.edu)
• PA Legal Aid (expungement/benefit issues): ask your CAO or provider to refer you to Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) as listed on DHS’ supportive services page. (pa.gov)

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Table 1 — Which training door should I pick?

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PA CareerLink + WIOA training funds (ITAs)

Start with the action that opens the most doors:

• Register at PA CareerLink. Click “Register as New User,” complete your profile, then attend orientation and ask for a WIOA eligibility appointment for training funds (Individual Training Account, or ITA). This is how many moms get tuition covered fast for short‑term healthcare, CDL, IT, and skilled trades programs on PA’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). (pacareerlink.pa.gov)

What WIOA looks at:

• Being 18+, low income (which includes receiving TANF/SNAP/SSI), or dislocated worker. PA uses federal guidelines (poverty line or 70% of the Lower Living Standard Income Level) to determine “low‑income individual.” Your PA CareerLink advisor uses the latest federal LLSIL tables. (dol.gov, govinfo.gov)

Real caps (examples that vary by county):

• Montgomery County (MontcoWorks) ITA maximum is $4,000 per customer per lifetime (waivers possible when special funds exist). (taxclaim.montcopa.org)
• Southwest Corner Workforce Development Area (Beaver, Greene, Washington Counties) ITA cap is $8,000 and can cover tuition, books, uniforms, tools, and fees for up to two years. (southwestcornerwdb.com)

How to apply (fast path):

• Bring photo ID; Social Security card; proof of PA residency; proof of income for the last 6 months (pay stubs or a benefits printout if you receive TANF/SNAP); layoff letter if applicable; resume; high school diploma/GED. Your advisor will confirm the program is on the ETPL before funding. (pacareerlink.pa.gov)

Reality check:

• ITA caps and policies differ by local workforce board, and funds can pause or run low. Always ask the local policy and the cap before you enroll. If you’re in Philadelphia or the suburbs, call PA CareerLink Philadelphia 1‑833‑750‑JOBS (5627) or MontcoWorks via PA CareerLink Montgomery County; if you’re in Allegheny County, call Pittsburgh PA CareerLink at (412) 248‑JOBS (5627). (philaworks.org, careerlinkpittsburgh.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask about On‑the‑Job Training (employer hires you and is reimbursed to train you), registered apprenticeships, or other local grants. Also ask whether your area can co‑enroll you in TANF/SNAP programs that add supportive funds (transportation, tools). (philaworks.org, pa.gov)

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KEYS at Community Colleges (for TANF/SNAP)

If you’re receiving TANF or SNAP and you’re in, or about to enroll in, a Pennsylvania community college, KEYS is often the smoothest way to finish a credential.

Top step:

• Call your campus KEYS office this week. Examples: HACC 717‑780‑1181; Delaware County CC 610‑359‑5231; Community College of Allegheny County KEYS info page shows supports including child care funds, bus passes/mileage/repairs, and books/supplies. (hacc.edu, dccc.edu, ccac.edu)

What KEYS can cover:

• Transportation (bus passes, mileage reimbursement, sometimes basic vehicle repairs), books/supplies, testing fees, laptop loan programs, and incentives for TANF students. Class hours and some study time can count toward your participation requirement. (pennhighlands.edu, pa.gov)

How to get in:

• Ask your County Assistance Office (CAO) caseworker for a KEYS referral, or complete a reverse referral form through your college KEYS office. The CAO has to approve the referral. (luzerne.edu)

Documents:

• Photo ID; Social Security number; your COMPASS benefits printout showing current TANF or SNAP; class schedule; syllabus/book list to verify costs; childcare plan if needed. (Your KEYS facilitator will help pull documents together.) (dccc.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask CAO to enroll you in SNAP E&T “SNAP KEYS,” SNAP JETS, or EARN. These programs can still support training with allowances and case management even if you’re not in community college right now. (pa.gov)

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SNAP E&T and TANF EARN: the “Special Allowances” you can request

If you receive SNAP or TANF and participate in approved work or training, Pennsylvania lets you request Special Allowances (SPALs). These are needs‑based, paid in advance, and the CAO must send a decision within 15 days of your request so you can keep attending. (pa.gov)

Table 2 — Common SPAL amounts you should know

Note: You must submit an estimate, choose the least‑cost option that meets the need, and provide a receipt within 14 days after the allowance is issued. Talk to your CAO or E&T provider about the PA‑1883 verification form. (pa.gov)

Important 2025 SNAP work‑reporting changes:

• As of September 1, 2025, certain SNAP recipients must report at least 20 hours/week of work, education/training, or volunteering. More groups are added starting November 1, 2025 (including parents whose youngest child is 14+). DHS launched a help site at dhs.pa.gov/work. Your CAO can help you meet the requirement by enrolling you in KEYS/EARN/SNAP E&T and counting class/study time where allowed. Earliest potential benefit loss is December 2025 if people don’t report. If you live with a child under 18, the ABAWD clock does not apply. (pa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the DHS Statewide Customer Service Center 1‑877‑395‑8930 (Philadelphia 215‑560‑7226) and ask for a supervisor to review your SPAL request. Ask your provider to refer you to Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network if you need help with an appeal. (pa.gov)

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Child care while you train: Child Care Works (CCW)

Top step:

• Apply right away through your ELRC. You’re eligible if your income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and you are working 20+ hours/week or working 10 + in approved training 10 hours/week. Use the CCW helpline 1‑877‑472‑5437 or find your county ELRC from the state directory. (pa.gov)

Income limits (effective May 2025) to start CCW:

Table 3 — CCW Initial Eligibility (200% FPL, May 2025)

Call your ELRC for your county. Examples:

• Allegheny County ELRC (Region 5): (412) 350‑3577 (toll‑free 1‑888‑340‑3572), 304 Wood St., Suite 400, Pittsburgh. (pa.gov)
• Bucks County ELRC (Region 16): (215) 486‑2524 (toll‑free 1‑833‑229‑6928), 333 N. Oxford Valley Rd., Fairless Hills. (pa.gov)

Tip: Ask your ELRC if your training hours can be paired with part‑time work to meet the hours rule. Many moms in KEYS and SNAP E&T qualify for CCW if the CAO/ELRC sees a documented need. (pa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your community college KEYS office or E&T provider to call the ELRC with you and confirm your training schedule and need for care. If you have a temporary gap, ask your provider about short‑term SPAL child care while the ELRC enrolls you. (pa.gov)

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Apprenticeships and pre‑apprenticeships (pay while you train)

Why this matters:

• Registered Apprenticeship is a job from day one with wage steps and a nationally recognized credential. PA’s Apprenticeship & Training Office (ATO) supports 881 sponsors, 1,554 apprenticeship programs, and 15,645 active apprentices statewide; there are also 118 pre‑apprenticeship programs. Call (717) 787‑6997 or email apprenticeship@pa.gov for help finding a program near you. (pa.gov, pacareerlink.pa.gov)

How to find one fast:

• Use the state’s finder: Find a Registered Apprenticeship Program. Or ask PA CareerLink to match you and see if WIOA can pay related classroom instruction when allowed. (pa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask ATO’s Job Seeker Liaison (apprenticeship@pa.gov) to email you the full list of active programs and pre‑apprenticeships and to spot cohorts starting in the next 30–90 days. (pacareerlink.pa.gov)

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OVR (Office of Vocational Rehabilitation): if you or your teen has a disability

What OVR can do:

• OVR provides training help, tuition assistance, job placement, and On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) wage reimbursements to employers who hire you. OJT can reimburse a percentage of your wages during the training period. (pa.gov)
• In FY 2024, OVR engaged with ~74,000 individuals, placed 6,000+ people into competitive integrated employment, supported 3,800+ in post‑secondary training, and provided $32million\ast \ast intuitionassistance.The2025‑26budgetproposesanextra\ast \ast$5 million to expand OVR services. (pa.gov)

Action:

• Contact OVR through your PA CareerLink, or call the OVR help lines listed on the L&I site, and ask for an intake. If your teen is 14–21 and has an IEP/504, ask about Pre‑Employment Transition Services. (pacareerlink.pa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask PA CareerLink to co‑enroll you in WIOA and refer you to an apprenticeship or employer with OJT reimbursement so you’re hired and paid now. (pa.gov)

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If you’re on Unemployment Compensation (UC)

• UC does not pay your tuition, but PA CareerLink can connect you to funded training. If your layoff is tied to trade, TAA may pay all training costs and extend income support up to 104 weeks (TRA), with strict deadlines (generally enroll within 26 weeks). Contact the UC Service Center 888‑313‑7284 and ask for the Trade Unit, and talk to your PA CareerLink career advisor. (pa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask about WIOA Adult/Dislocated Worker funds in your area and employer‑paid training options (OJT, apprenticeships). (philaworks.org)

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Table 4 — WIOA ITA caps (examples; always confirm locally)

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Table 5 — Child care and benefits numbers at a glance

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Real‑world examples

• Philadelphia nursing assistant track: You attend a PA CareerLink orientation, get WIOA‑funded CNA training, and your ELRC approves CCW so your 4‑year‑old has care during class and clinicals. You also ask your CAO for a bus SPAL and $150 clothing for scrubs and shoes. Your CNA class is on the ETPL; tuition is paid first by WIOA; you keep receipts for SPAL documentation within 14 days. (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov)
• Cambria County community college route: You’re on SNAP, enroll at a PA community college, and KEYS lines up mileage reimbursement, books, and a laptop loan. Your class and some study hours count toward your ABAWD requirement if it applies later in the year. If your car breaks down, you request a repair SPAL with an estimate. (pennhighlands.edu, pa.gov)

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Application Checklist (bring this to your first appointment)

• Photo ID and Social Security card.
• Proof of Pennsylvania address (lease, utility bill).
• Proof of income for the past 6 months (pay stubs, COMPASS benefits letter for TANF/SNAP/SSI).
• Layoff or termination notice (if dislocated worker).
• High school diploma/GED or transcripts; any licenses/certifications.
• Child care plan and provider details (for CCW).
• Two cost estimates for SPAL requests (e.g., tools, car repair), plus proof you chose the least‑cost option that meets the need.
• A target job/training program from the ETPL with start date and costs. (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting a class before funding is approved. If you pay first, SPALs usually can’t reimburse you.
• Picking a program not on the ETPL. WIOA won’t pay it.
• Not asking for SPALs early. They must be issued in advance; decisions come within 15 days.
• Skipping the child care application because you think you make “too much.” Check the actual CCW income table (200% FPL).
• Missing the WIOA orientation or not bringing documents; it can add weeks.
• For TAA‑eligible layoffs: missing the 26‑week training enrollment deadline for extended income support. (pa.gov)

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Diverse Communities: targeted help that speeds things up

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask PA CareerLink and ATO about inclusive pre‑apprenticeships and apprenticeships in non‑traditional fields. You have equal access protections under state apprenticeship EEO rules; ATO can connect you to women‑ and LGBTQ‑friendly sponsors. (pa.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Contact OVR for training supports, workplace accommodations, and OJT. If your teen is 14–21 with an IEP/504, ask for Pre‑ETS services through OVR to build skills and paid experiences. (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: PA CareerLink gives priority of service to veterans and eligible spouses; ask to meet the veterans representative at your center. Many ITAs, OJT, and apprenticeships prioritize veterans. (Confirm locally at your PA CareerLink.) (southwestcornerwdb.com)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can request free language assistance from agencies. In Philadelphia, call 311 and ask for an interpreter under the City’s Language Access program; state agencies also provide no‑cost interpreters. (phila.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If you’re living in PA, use PA CareerLink and statewide programs listed here; many federal education benefits tied to tribal programs can be used alongside PA training—ask your adviser to coordinate.
• Rural moms with limited access: Ask for SNAP E&T or KEYS mileage reimbursement ($0.20/mile) and consider online ETPL programs or pre‑apprenticeships that start cohorts every few months. (pa.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. If you have custody or are a primary caregiver, you can use CCW and the same SPALs when in approved training. (pa.gov)
• Language access: Request an interpreter any time you interact with CAO, PA CareerLink, ELRC, or colleges. It’s free and does not affect eligibility. (See City of Philadelphia Language Access; counties have similar policies.) (phila.gov)

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Resources by Region (quick contacts)

• Philadelphia
  • PA CareerLink Philadelphia: 1‑833‑750‑JOBS (5627); service hubs across the city. (philaworks.org)
• Allegheny County (Pittsburgh)
  • PA CareerLink Pittsburgh: (412) 248‑JOBS (5627) (Downtown and Allegheny East). (careerlinkpittsburgh.org)
  • ELRC Region 5 (Allegheny): (412) 350‑3577, toll‑free 1‑888‑340‑3572. (pa.gov)
• Bucks County
  • ELRC Region 16: (215) 486‑2524, toll‑free 1‑833‑229‑6928. (pa.gov)
• Statewide
  • Apprenticeship & Training Office (ATO): (717) 787‑6997; apprenticeship@pa.gov. (pacareerlink.pa.gov)
  • DHS Statewide Customer Service Center (benefits): 1‑877‑395‑8930; Philadelphia 215‑560‑7226. (pa.gov)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Pennsylvania‑specific)

1. Can WIOA pay for non‑college programs like CDL or medical billing?

• Yes, if the program is on the ETPL and you’re eligible. Ask your PA CareerLink advisor and confirm the ITA cap for your county (examples: Montco $4,000lifetime\ast \ast ,SouthwestCorner\ast \ast$8,000). (pacareerlink.pa.gov, taxclaim.montcopa.org, southwestcornerwdb.com)

2. I’m on SNAP but not TANF. Can I still get training help and supportive funds?

• Yes. Ask to enroll in SNAP E&T (options include KEYS, EARN/CAO‑directed, and JETS). You can request SPALs like bus (up to $1,500/yr\ast \ast ),mileage(\ast \ast$0.20/mile), clothing ($150/yr\ast \ast ),andtools(\ast \ast$1,000 lifetime). (pa.gov)

3. Do class hours count toward my work requirement?

• In KEYS and some SNAP E&T activities, class and some study time can count for ABAWDs; your caseworker confirms hours. (pa.gov)

4. How fast will I hear about a SPAL?

• DHS must send a decision within 15 days of your request. Request early and keep receipts. (pa.gov)

5. Can I get help with child care while I’m in training?

• Yes. Apply for Child Care Works through your ELRC. Initial eligibility is 200% FPL (family of 3: $53,300/yr). Call 1‑877‑472‑5437. (pa.gov)

6. I’m a mom with a disability. Should I contact OVR or PA CareerLink first?

• Either is fine; they partner. OVR can fund training services and help place you; PA CareerLink can co‑enroll you in WIOA and connect you to OJT/apprenticeships. (pa.gov)

7. I lost my job. Can UC pay my tuition?

• No. UC doesn’t pay tuition. If your layoff is trade‑impacted, TAA can pay training and may extend income support up to 104 weeks; call 888‑313‑7284. Otherwise, ask PA CareerLink about WIOA funds. (pa.gov)

8. What if my area’s training funds are paused or capped too low?

• Ask about OJT and apprenticeships (paid jobs). Also ask whether TANF/SNAP co‑enrollment can add SPALs and whether other grants (PAsmart, local foundations) are available this year. (philaworks.org)

9. Can PHEAA help with short‑term, non‑degree training?

• Yes, Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program (PA‑TIP) supports certain non‑degree, high‑priority programs. Awards vary by program and funding; use PHEAA’s current PA‑TIP Award Estimator or call 1‑800‑443‑0646 (option 2). (pheaa.org)

10. My hours vary. Will SNAP cut me off?

• New federal reporting rules starting September 1, 2025 require some adults to report work/education/training/volunteer hours monthly (with more groups added November 1, 2025). Your CAO can help you meet the requirement through approved training (like KEYS) and SNAP E&T. Earliest loss is December 2025 if not reported. (pa.gov)

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What the top search results usually miss (and how this guide fixes it)

• Real dollar amounts: We list exact SPAL amounts, CCW income limits, and example ITA caps with sources and phone numbers.
• Child care + transportation: We show how to stack CCW with KEYS/SNAP E&T and request bus/mileage funds before class starts.
• County differences: We point to your local board’s cap and give you the numbers to call now.
• Timelines and Plan B: We include realistic timelines and backup routes (apprenticeships, OJT, SPALs) if one door is closed.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, U.S. Department of Labor, and established nonprofits and public institutions. 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.

Key sources used and dated:

• DHS SNAP E&T and statewide customer numbers; SPAL rules and amounts; CCW eligibility and income table; ELRC directory; SNAP work/ABAWD updates (posted 2025). (pa.gov)
• PA CareerLink ETPL and training provider info; WIOA guidance; local board caps (MontcoWorks, Southwest Corner). (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov, taxclaim.montcopa.org, southwestcornerwdb.com)
• Apprenticeships (ATO contact; statewide counts, 2025). (pacareerlink.pa.gov, pa.gov)
• OVR services and OJT; 2025 budget/news updates for disability employment. (pa.gov)
• UC training FAQs; TAA benefits and timelines. (pa.gov)

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Disclaimer

• Programs change. Always verify amounts, deadlines, and eligibility with the agency before you enroll or spend money. Links in this guide go to official pages wherever possible; if a link breaks, use the agency’s main site search or call the listed phone numbers.
• This guide is general information, not legal advice or a personal eligibility decision. For case‑specific questions, speak with your CAO caseworker, PA CareerLink advisor, college KEYS office, or a legal aid advocate.
• Security note: Do not email your SSN, full benefits case number, or other sensitive documents to anyone unless the agency instructs you to use an approved secure portal.

— End of guide —

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