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

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, numbers-first guide for single moms in South Dakota who need job training, funding, child care help, and fast paths to work that actually pay. Every step below includes official links, phone numbers, realistic timelines, and a “Plan B” if the first door doesn’t open.

How this guide is different: we checked the latest official state and federal pages for 2025 and pulled dollar amounts, phone numbers, eligibility rules, and timelines you can use today. Where a program doesn’t publish fixed dollar caps, we say so and point you to the office that decides the award. We also include common mistakes and what to do instead—because delays cost money.

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Quick Help Box (bookmark this)

• Call your nearest Job Service office and ask for “WIOA training/tutoring support and tuition help.” Sioux Falls: 605‑367‑5300. Rapid City: 605‑394‑2296. Statewide appointment line (many locations): 605‑773‑3372. Ask for a same‑week appointment. DLR Job Service Offices page (addresses/phones). (dlr.sd.gov)
• If you already get SNAP or just applied, ask for “SNAP Employment & Training (E&T)”—it can pay for short certificates, tuition, books, gas, tools, even child care while you train. Call DSS E&T at 605‑773‑4678. SNAP E&T details and contact. (dss.sd.gov)
• Need child care so you can attend classes or clinicals? Apply online for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Income limit is up to 209% FPL (e.g., family of 2: $3,685/mo\ast \ast ;3:\ast \ast$4,642/mo; 4: $5,599/mo)—effective March 1, 2025. Call 800‑227‑3020 for help. CCAP eligibility, current sliding scale, and application. (dss.sd.gov)
• Want to earn while you learn? Ask DLR about “Start Today SD” registered apprenticeships. Many programs pay wages from day one, and a new state incentive launched April 1, 2025 is offering sponsors up to $5,000 per new apprentice (opens doors with employers). Start Today SD—Apprenticeships & incentives. (starttodaysd.com)
• Need a short certificate, little to no cost? Ask for “SD UpSkill” (DLR covers many high‑demand certificate programs for eligible learners). Start by asking your Job Service office. SD UpSkill overview. (dlr.sd.gov)
• School grants: The 2025‑26 maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395 (free money; FAFSA required). Official Pell amounts for 2025‑26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• If you’re overwhelmed, dial 211 (or text your ZIP to 898211) for a live specialist who can connect you to child care, rent help, job programs, legal aid, and more (24/7). Helpline Center contact options. (helplinecenter.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Where to start today (fastest route)

• Call your nearest Job Service office first. Ask for: “I’m a single mom looking for WIOA tuition assistance or an apprenticeship. Can I get a same‑week intake?” Then ask for “supportive services while training” (gas, tools, testing fees). If you can’t get there in person, ask for a virtual appointment. DLR Job Service Offices directory. (dlr.sd.gov)
• If you are on SNAP or just applied, ask DSS to add you to “E&T.” Tell them your target training (CNA, CDL, welding, medical assistant, IT, etc.) and request tuition and transportation help. SNAP E&T overview and contact. (dss.sd.gov)
• Apply for child care right away so you don’t lose a training seat. Income limit up to 209% FPL (see table below). Applications are processed within 10 working days. CCAP application/eligibility. (dss.sd.gov)

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WIOA Tuition Assistance (Department of Labor & Regulation)

Start here if you need a short, practical training that leads to a credential within about two years or less.

• Most important action: call your Job Service office and request a WIOA intake. Sioux Falls 605‑367‑5300; Rapid City 605‑394‑2296; statewide scheduling line used by many offices 605‑773‑3372. Find your office, hours, addresses. (dlr.sd.gov)

What WIOA can pay for

• WIOA can pay tuition/fees for approved programs on the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL), plus books, exams, tools, and other supports if needed for you to finish. Awards are based on individual need and funding availability—South Dakota does not publish a fixed statewide cap. ETPL guidance; funding based on need/availability. (dlr.sd.gov)
• On‑the‑Job Training (OJT): if hired into an OJT, DLR can reimburse the employer up to 50% of your wage during the training period, which can help you get hired. WIOA Adults & Dislocated Workers—OJT 50% reimbursement. (dlr.sd.gov)

Eligibility basics (plain language)

• Adults with low/modest income or laid‑off workers may qualify; young adults can use the youth program. Income checks often use the federal “Lower Living Standard Income Level” (70% LLSIL). The exact dollar amounts vary by family size and region—DLR will calculate it during intake. You can review current federal LLSIL guidance here. U.S. DOL LLSIL guidelines. (dol.gov)

Required documents (bring to intake)

• Photo ID and proof of citizenship/authorization (driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport).
• Social Security number.
• Proof of address and household size.
• Proof of income or layoff (pay stubs, UI letter), any current benefits.
• School transcripts (if any) and a target training you’re interested in.

Timeline (what to expect)

• Screening and eligibility: 1–2 weeks depending on how fast you submit documents.
• Training start: typically the next class start date (2–6 weeks out), or immediate if you enter OJT.
• Supportive services: once your plan is approved, DLR can issue allowable supports (gas cards/tools, etc.) case‑by‑case.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

• Waiting to pick a training. Bring one or two specific programs from the ETPL to the appointment—this speeds approval. How to view ETPL in SDWORKS. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Skipping FAFSA. Even with WIOA, fill out FAFSA so Pell can reduce your out‑of‑pocket costs (and stretch WIOA farther). Pell max 2025‑26: $7,395. FSA Dear Colleague letter—2025‑26 Pell limits. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask about SD UpSkill (DLR‑funded certificates), apprenticeships (Start Today SD), or OJT with a local employer. SD UpSkill | Start Today SD. (dlr.sd.gov, starttodaysd.com)

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Registered Apprenticeships (Start Today SD): Paid training with a job

• Most important action: tell your Employment Specialist you want “Registered Apprenticeship leads” and ask about current openings. You can also request services on the Start Today SD website. Start Today SD (apprenticeships). (starttodaysd.com)

Why this helps single moms

• You earn a paycheck from day one and get raises as you master skills; many programs align with child‑friendly schedules (e.g., medical assistant, dental assistant, community health worker, IT help desk, trades).
• In 2025, a new incentive launched: up to $5,000 per new apprentice for sponsors already registered with U.S. DOL (helps employers say “yes” to first‑time moms returning to work). Program incentive starting April 1, 2025. (starttodaysd.com)
• Example: Community Health Worker (CHW) apprenticeship. Training tuition and books are covered, plus a small stipend for apprentices and mentors. Program length ~1 year, with 2,000–2,200 hours and related instruction. CHW SD Registered Apprenticeship. (chwsd.org)

Timeline

• Employer interview/hire: varies by sponsor (2–6 weeks typical).
• Related instruction: follows set blocks (you can often do online modules at night).

Plan B

• If an employer can’t hire you now, ask DLR for OJT or SD UpSkill to build the credential first and re‑apply next semester. DLR Adults & Dislocated Workers | SD UpSkill. (dlr.sd.gov)

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SD UpSkill: short certificates at little or no cost

• Most important action: request an SD UpSkill orientation through your Job Service office or online request form. SD UpSkill—how it works. (dlr.sd.gov)

What you get

• Funding toward high‑demand certificates (in partnership with the state’s technical colleges), plus case management and job placement help. Programs are curated from the state’s ETPL and align to in‑demand jobs. DLR training opportunities overview. (dlr.sd.gov)

Plan B

• If your preferred certificate isn’t open this term, ask for WIOA tuition assistance into a similar ETPL program or look at apprenticeships with a related employer while you wait. ETPL info | Start Today SD. (dlr.sd.gov, starttodaysd.com)

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Child Care While You Train or Work (CCAP)

• Most important action: apply online and choose a provider (licensed/registered, or eligible relative/friend). Applications are processed within 10 working days. Help is available by phone at 800‑227‑3020 or email CCS@state.sd.us. How to apply + processing timeline. (dss.sd.gov)

2025 income limits (effective Mar 1, 2025; 209% FPL)

Source: South Dakota DSS—CCAP Sliding Fee Scale (effective 3/1/2025). Eligibility page. (dss.sd.gov)

Notes and tips

• Co‑pays vary by your income and family size. DSS sets the co‑pay from the sliding scale; the state pays the rest to your provider up to program limits. CCAP eligibility & sliding scale. (dss.sd.gov)
• You can use CCAP when working or attending approved education/training (including clinicals/externships). Apply even if you’re not sure—DSS will determine eligibility.
• If approved, you’ll receive a certificate showing your monthly assistance and eligibility period.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 211 to find local scholarships, Head Start, Early Head Start, and sliding‑fee child care openings. Helpline Center—contact options. (helplinecenter.org)

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TANF Work Program (cash + training support)

TANF is for very low‑income families with kids. It’s a work‑first program with supportive services.

• Most important action: start your application with an Employment Specialist (DSS on reservations; DLR elsewhere). Ask for child care and transportation supports while you work or train. TANF overview & how to apply. (dss.sd.gov)

Key rules and benefits

• Participation: 30 hours/week; if your youngest child is under 6, 20 hours/week. Lifetime limit: 60 months. TANF work requirements. (dss.sd.gov)
• Support services may include clothing, transportation (including insurance), vehicle repair, tools/equipment, GED fees, and child care. TANF supports. (dss.sd.gov)

TANF monthly cash benefit examples (maximums; actual awards vary)

Full table (through 12 members) on DSS TANF FAQ. See “How much will I receive?”. (dss.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask DLR about WIOA tuition assistance (you can combine with TANF supports), or join SNAP E&T if you’re on SNAP. WIOA overview | SNAP E&T. (dlr.sd.gov, dss.sd.gov)

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SNAP Employment & Training (E&T)

If you get SNAP or are applying, this may be your fastest way to fund short training and supports.

• Most important action: tell your SNAP worker “I want E&T.” Or call DSS E&T at 605‑773‑4678 for a direct referral. Work Connections—SNAP E&T. (dss.sd.gov)

What E&T can cover

• Tuition/fees, books, uniforms, tools, exam costs; transportation assistance; dependent care assistance; ongoing case management and coaching. E&T assistance list. (dss.sd.gov)

Who qualifies

• SNAP recipients (18+; some 16–17 in GED/HS completion). Services are available statewide; enhanced services exist in Minnehaha, Pennington, and Yankton Counties. Eligibility notes on E&T page. (dss.sd.gov)

Plan B

• If E&T is full, pivot to WIOA through DLR or SD UpSkill. Ask your Job Service office for the fastest open option. DLR training overview. (dlr.sd.gov)

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Paying for School: Pell Grants, Technical College Costs, and Build Dakota

• Most important action: file the FAFSA (even if you think you make “too much”). Max Pell for 2025‑26 is $7,395; some moms will qualify for the maximum. Official Pell maximum/minimum 2025‑26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

South Dakota technical college costs (what to expect)

• In 2024‑25, the system tuition + state fees were $166 per credit across SD’s four technical colleges (local/institutional fees and program fees are extra). For 2025‑26, always check your college’s current cost sheet before you register. KELO report on Board of Technical Education rates for 2024‑25. (keloland.com)
• Example (Mitchell Technical College): base tuition $130\ast \ast +stateandlocalfees;totalestimated\ast \ast$238–$253 per credit (program fees vary). Check each college’s cost sheet for your program. Mitchell Tech tuition & fees breakdown. (mitchelltech.edu)

Build Dakota Scholarship (tech colleges)

• Covers 100% of tuition, fees, books, uniforms, technology, and other required expenses for high‑need programs; recipients commit to work in South Dakota for three years after graduation. Southeast Technical College awarded 172 full‑ride Build Dakota scholarships in 2025. Application windows are typically early in the calendar year; confirm current dates with your technical college. Build Dakota main site | STC news—172 scholarships (June 7, 2025). (builddakotascholarships.com, southeasttech.edu)

Plan B

• If you miss Build Dakota, stack Pell + WIOA + SD UpSkill, and ask your DLR specialist about employer‑paid OJT or apprenticeship wages to bridge gaps. DLR adults & dislocated workers. (dlr.sd.gov)

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Transportation to Class, Clinicals, and Work

Getting to training reliably is half the battle. Start with these providers and ask for student or low‑income fares:

• River Cities Public Transit (Central SD & beyond). Phone 605‑945‑2360; 1600 E Dakota Ave, Pierre. 24/7 operations; schedule in advance. RCPT contact page. (rcptransit.com)
• Rapid Transit System (Rapid City & area). Phone 605‑394‑6631; Milo Barber Transportation Center, 333 6th St., Rapid City. RTS contact & ride guide. (rapidtransitsystem.org)
• Sioux Area Metro (Sioux Falls). Use the contact page to get help with routes, passes, ADA paratransit. Sioux Area Metro—Contact. (siouxareametro.info)
• Prairie Hills Transit (Black Hills region). Dispatch 605‑642‑6668 (or 877‑673‑3687)—schedule at least one business day ahead. Prairie Hills Transit—Contact. (prairiehillstransit.com)
• People’s Transit (Huron/Beadle–Sanborn Counties; NEMT to eastern SD). 605‑353‑0100. Helpline listing with hours/coverage. (helplinecenter.org)

Plan B

• If you live outside fixed routes, ask your DLR or DSS worker for mileage reimbursements, gas cards, or rides through partner nonprofits (often covered under WIOA or SNAP E&T supportive services). DLR supportive options | SNAP E&T supportive services. (dlr.sd.gov, dss.sd.gov)

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South Dakota Job Service Offices (addresses and phones)

Use this to book your WIOA/SD UpSkill/apprenticeship intake or resume/interview workshops.

Source: State DLR office directory (updated listings and phones). Always check the page for the latest hours. DLR Job Service Offices. (dlr.sd.gov)

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Pick a Target Career (what actually pays here)

Use the state’s “Hot Careers” list—occupations with strong demand and above‑median wages (2024 median in SD: $45,620). You can filter by education needed and see current openings. Labor Market Information Center—Hot Careers (updated with 2024 wages/2022–2032 projections). (dlr.sd.gov)

Tip: match Hot Careers to ETPL programs or apprenticeships. Your DLR Employment Specialist can cross‑walk them in SDWORKS (usually 10,000+ openings posted). How to search SDWORKS + free job‑search tools. (dlr.sd.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Sioux Falls medical assistant path: Mom uses CCAP for her 3‑year‑old and enrolls in a 10‑month MA certificate funded by WIOA; gets gas cards and exam fees covered; lands a paid externship and then a clinic job. (Supports and timelines vary; WIOA funding is individualized and subject to availability.) WIOA training overview. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Rapid City CHW apprenticeship: Mom is hired by a clinic, wages start immediately; CHW apprenticeship tuition and books are covered; she receives a small stipend during the year and finishes with a portable credential. CHW apprenticeship coverage. (chwsd.org)

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Getting a High School Equivalency (GED) if you need it

If you’re missing your diploma, that’s fixable—and often paid for via SNAP E&T or TANF.

• Start with DOE’s GED page to set up your account and find testing/prep locations. South Dakota DOE—GED hub. (doe.sd.gov)
• Ask your DSS/DLR worker to cover GED testing fees under SNAP E&T or TANF supports. SNAP E&T supports | TANF supports. (dss.sd.gov)

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Local nonprofits and community action agencies that actually help

• Community Action Agencies (by region): they help with transportation, deposits, utilities, and sometimes training connections.
  • GROW South Dakota (Northeast and North Central). 605‑698‑7654. HUD CAA list. (hud.gov)
  • Inter‑Lakes Community Action (East/Southeast). 605‑256‑6518 or 800‑896‑4103. HUD CAA list. (hud.gov)
  • Rural Office of Community Services (Southeast/Central). 605‑384‑3883 or 800‑793‑3290. HUD CAA list. (hud.gov)
  • Western SD Community Action (West/Reservations). 605‑348‑1460. HUD CAA list. (hud.gov)
• Feeding South Dakota (mobile food distributions—66 counties). Find food calendars for your town. Feeding South Dakota—find food. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
• Salvation Army (Sioux Falls and Rapid City centers). Sioux Falls 605‑332‑2331. Rapid City 605‑342‑0982 (Corps). Sioux Falls contact | Rapid City contact. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Goodwill Job Centers (free resume, applications, computers, job clubs). Sioux Falls 605‑357‑6171; Rapid City 605‑341‑3581. Goodwill of the Great Plains Job Centers. (goodwillgreatplains.org)
• 211 Helpline (statewide referral for rent/child care/mental health/legal aid). Dial 211, text ZIP to 898211, or email help@helplinecenter.org. Helpline Center—contact options. (helplinecenter.org)

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Diverse Communities: tailored help and contacts

• Moms with disabilities (including mental health, chronic conditions): South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) can fund training, workplace accommodations, supported employment, and job placement. See office list by city (TTY numbers provided). Example contacts: Rapid City 605‑394‑2261; Sioux Falls 605‑367‑5330. State DRS contacts and office list. (bhr.sd.gov)
• Blind/low‑vision moms: South Dakota Rehabilitation Center for the Blind offers tech training, mobility, and job skills; referrals via SBVI. Sioux Falls 800‑658‑5441. SBVI/Center for the Blind. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: VA Dakotas Regional Office (benefits, Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment). Sioux Falls 605‑333‑5316; Rapid City VR&E 605‑341‑8165. VA Dakotas benefits contact. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Immigrant & refugee moms: LSS Center for New Americans (ESL, job placement, immigration help). Start here and ask for employment services and English classes. LSS Center for New Americans—overview. (lsssd.org)
• Tribal programs (WIOA Section 166): contact your tribe’s employment & training office for training, work experience, and supportive services.
  • Oglala Sioux Tribe WIOA (Pine Ridge): 605‑867‑5931. 211 listing—OST WIOA. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
  • Lower Brule Sioux Tribe WIA/NEW: 605‑473‑0984 (supports up to 300 hours of training + 12 months of services; covers GED fees, IDs, transportation). Lower Brule WIA/NEW program. (lowerbrulesiouxtribe.com)
  • Sisseton‑Wahpeton Oyate Tribal Vocational Rehab: 605‑698‑8437 (employment for members with disabilities). SWO TVR contact. (helplinecenter.org)
  • Yankton Sioux Tribe WIA/WIOA (youth/adult services—see site for contacts). YST WIA page. (yanktonsiouxtribe.net)
• Rural moms: if you’re far from a campus, ask DLR about online ETPL programs, SD UpSkill online certificates, and apprenticeships in your town; combine with public transit or mileage supports. DLR training overview. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Single fathers: all programs above are gender‑neutral; dads can and should apply.
• Language access: public transit and state agencies follow Title VI/ADA. If you face a language barrier, ask for interpreter services (free). For Sioux Falls transit Title VI/ADA forms, see the contact page; statewide, call 211 for language referral. Sioux Area Metro—Contact | Helpline Center. (siouxareametro.info, helplinecenter.org)

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Timelines you can plan around

• WIOA intake to training start: 2–6 weeks (depends on your documents and class start). Approvals faster if you pick a program from the ETPL and submit paperwork within 48 hours. ETPL info. (dlr.sd.gov)
• CCAP processing: within 10 working days (apply early). CCAP application page. (dss.sd.gov)
• Apprenticeship hiring: varies by employer; plan 2–8 weeks from application to start. Some healthcare and public sector programs are cohort‑based. Start Today SD. (starttodaysd.com)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for training without a child care plan. Submit CCAP the same week you talk to DLR/DSS so you don’t lose a seat. CCAP apply. (dss.sd.gov)
• Not bringing documents to your intake. Delays approvals.
• Picking a program that’s not on the ETPL. WIOA can’t fund it. Always verify ETPL first. ETPL steps. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Skipping FAFSA. You can miss out on $7,395 Pell for 2025‑26. Pell 2025‑26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Government photo ID and Social Security number.
• Proof of South Dakota address.
• Proof of household size and dependents (birth certificates if available).
• Income proof (last 30 days of pay stubs) or layoff/UI letter; benefit award letters (SNAP, TANF, etc.).
• School transcripts (if any), GED status, or appointment for GED prep/testing. GED info. (doe.sd.gov)
• Target training(s) chosen from the ETPL, or an apprenticeship you’re applying to. ETPL | Start Today SD. (dlr.sd.gov, starttodaysd.com)
• Child care provider choice (so CCAP can authorize quickly). CCAP apply. (dss.sd.gov)

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Quick Tables You Can Use

1. Federal Poverty Guidelines (reference only)

Source: HHS/ASPE 2025 poverty guidelines. ASPE—2025 Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)

2. Child Care Assistance (CCAP) income limits (209% FPL; effective 3/1/2025)

Source: DSS CCAP. Eligibility page. (dss.sd.gov)

3. TANF monthly cash (selected sizes; max, your case may vary)

Source: DSS TANF FAQs. Benefit standards. (dss.sd.gov)

4. Technical college cost pointers

5. Transportation contacts (save these)

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10 South Dakota‑specific FAQs

1. Can WIOA pay for online programs?

• Yes, if the program/provider is on South Dakota’s ETPL and leads to an in‑demand job. Ask your Employment Specialist to confirm before enrolling. ETPL guidance. (dlr.sd.gov)

2. How much will WIOA pay?

• South Dakota sets awards case‑by‑case; there is no fixed statewide cap posted. Your plan can include tuition, books, exams, and needed tools. ETPL/WIOA note on funding by need/availability. (dlr.sd.gov)

3. How fast can I get child care approved?

• CCAP processes applications within 10 working days once your paperwork is complete. CCAP application page. (dss.sd.gov)

4. Can SNAP E&T pay for a CDL, CNA, or welding course?

• Yes, if it’s an approved short‑term or industry training aligned with employment; E&T can cover tuition, fees, books, transportation, and child care. SNAP E&T services/assistance. (dss.sd.gov)

5. What’s the maximum Pell Grant for 2025‑26?

• $7,395 (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). FSA Dear Colleague letter. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

6. Do apprentices get help with child care?

• Apprentices earn wages; you may also qualify for CCAP if your income is within limits and you meet activity rules. Apply and list your provider. CCAP eligibility. (dss.sd.gov)

7. I’m on TANF. How many hours must I participate?

• Generally 30 hours/week; if your youngest child is under 6, 20 hours/week. TANF work requirements. (dss.sd.gov)

8. Can I stack Build Dakota with Pell?

• Build Dakota is a full‑ride package for eligible tech programs; your college’s aid office coordinates Pell and scholarship funds. Ask the college financial aid office how they stack for your program. Build Dakota. (builddakotascholarships.com)

9. Is there a list of high‑demand jobs in South Dakota?

• Yes—“Hot Careers” lists high‑demand, higher‑wage occupations (updated with 2024 wage data). LMIC Hot Careers. (dlr.sd.gov)

10. I don’t have a high school diploma. Can I still get help?

• Yes. DSS/DLR can fund GED prep/testing (SNAP E&T or TANF), and DLR has Adult Education & Literacy providers statewide. DOE GED hub | SNAP E&T supports. (doe.sd.gov, dss.sd.gov)

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What to do if you’re stuck

• Call 211 (or text ZIP to 898211) and say: “I need job training and child care help in [your county].” Ask for a warm hand‑off to DLR/DSS contacts and any local scholarships or emergency help. Helpline Center. (helplinecenter.org)
• Search and enroll in free virtual workshops (resume, interview, budgeting) to move forward while you wait for funding. DLR free workshops. (dlr.sd.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation, South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education (FSA), U.S. Department of Labor, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards (primary sources, cross‑verification, link testing, and change tracking). We are independent, not a government agency. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Found an update or correction? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours per our policy. (dss.sd.gov)

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Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, phone numbers, and links change. Always confirm with the relevant agency or college before you enroll or spend money. Health, legal, and financial decisions are personal—use official channels and, when needed, licensed professionals. We monitor and secure this website, but you should also keep your device updated, avoid public Wi‑Fi for applications, and never share full SSNs, bank logins, or medical details over unsecured connections.

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Sources noted above (selected highlights)

• DLR Job Service offices, phones, addresses; SDWORKS and training pages; WIOA/OJT; free workshops; SD UpSkill. (dlr.sd.gov)
• DSS SNAP E&T, TANF, CCAP eligibility/processing and income limits (effective 3/1/2025). (dss.sd.gov)
• Federal Pell maximum for 2025‑26; HHS 2025 FPL. (fsapartners.ed.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• Start Today SD apprenticeship site and 2025 incentive; CHW apprenticeship coverage; CHW training blocks. (starttodaysd.com, chwsd.org)
• LMIC Hot Careers (updated wage threshold); SDWORKS job search. (dlr.sd.gov)
• Technical college cost examples (Mitchell Tech; 2024‑25 system context). (mitchelltech.edu, keloland.com)
• Transit contacts: RCPT, Rapid Transit System, Sioux Area Metro, Prairie Hills Transit, People’s Transit. (rcptransit.com, rapidtransitsystem.org, siouxareametro.info, prairiehillstransit.com, helplinecenter.org)
• 211 Helpline contact modalities. (helplinecenter.org)

This is people‑first, no‑drama guidance designed so you can take action today—step by step, with real numbers, phone numbers, and Plan B options.

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🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota

You may also need: Education Grants Business Grants & Assistance

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery