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

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for single mothers living in Vermont who need clear, fast ways to train for better‑paying work, keep child care covered, and get through the application steps without burning time you don’t have.

• All links go to official state/federal sites or established Vermont nonprofits.
• Dollar amounts and phone numbers are bolded for quick scanning.
• Each section ends with a Plan B if the first route isn’t working.
• We use Vermont‑specific rules, phone lines, and timelines verified from official sources listed throughout.

Sources are dated and linked at the end of each section. See our About & Disclaimer sections at the bottom for editorial standards and review schedule.

Quick Help Box (start here)

• Call a Vermont Job Center to get matched to funded training and supportive services: Burlington AJC: (802) 863‑7676. See the full statewide list with hours under “Find A Local Job Center.” Find a Local Job Center (addresses, phones, hours). (labor.vermont.gov)
• Ask about “WIOA” and “apprenticeships” to get training paid for, plus help with gear, books, and transportation when funds allow. WIOA overview and apprenticeship info, Vermont DOL. (labor.vermont.gov)
• Need child care while you train or work? Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) can help up to 575% of FPL with family shares between $0–$250/week based on income. Apply online via the CDDIS Parent Portal. CCFAP program page + 2025 updates and update on new 2025 FPL guidelines and family share details. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Training fast and local: Community College of Vermont (CCV) has the state’s lowest tuition ($290/creditin‑statefor2025‑26\ast \ast )and“802Opportunity”canmakeCCVtuition\ast \ast free\ast \ast forincomes\le \ast \ast$100,000. CCV tuition and 802 Opportunity. (ccv.edu)
• Short, job‑ready grants: VSAC “Advancement Grant” helps pay for short‑term, non‑degree training (amount varies by cost/need). Trades Forgivable Loan covers up to $23,000 for selected trades (tuition/licensing/exams) with a Vermont work commitment. VSAC grants overview and Vermont Trades Forgivable Loan. (vsac.org)
• SNAP (3SquaresVT) recipients can get free job supports through ICAN (transportation, clothing, phone, and child care reimbursements when eligible). Call 1‑800‑479‑6151 or ask your DCF worker. 3SquaresVT + ICAN explanation & contacts. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Minimum wage and UI: Vermont minimum wage is $14.01/hour\ast \ast (sinceJan1,2025).MaxUIweeklybenefitis\ast \ast$705. Minimum wage press release and UI benefit calculation page. (labor.vermont.gov)

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What the top 10 search results miss (and how this guide fixes it)

When we reviewed the first page of results for “Vermont Job Training for Single Mothers,” we saw gaps:

• Vague program names, few live phone numbers, and no Vermont‑specific timelines or costs.
• Few pages explain how to stack supports (training + child care + transportation + UI).
• Almost none list up‑to‑date child‑care income limits or the 2025 minimum wage and UI caps.
• Women‑focused training (like Vermont Works for Women) is often missing or not tied to apprenticeships.
• There’s little “Plan B” guidance if a program is full, or you’re waitlisted, or you need faster income.

This guide plugs those holes with exact phone numbers, current Vermont amounts, application links, and backup routes with realistic expectations. Citations follow each section.

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Fast Paths to Paid Training and Better Wages

Start with the option that gets you income soonest and fits your family’s schedule.

1) Registered Apprenticeship (earn while you learn)

Most important step: Tell your local Job Center you want apprenticeship options and ask for current openings. Call the Burlington AJC at (802) 863‑7676 or find your nearest office below. Find a Local Job Center. (labor.vermont.gov)

• You’re an employee from day one and your pay must be at least the higher of Vermont’s minimum wage ($14.01/hr) or 50% of the journeyworker rate for that trade; wages rise as you learn. Minimum wage 2025 and 21 V.S.A. §1117 wage rule. (labor.vermont.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
• Formal programs include at least 144 hours/year of related instruction. The Vermont DOL Apprenticeship team can match you to sponsors. About Registered Apprenticeship. (labor.vermont.gov)
• Fields: healthcare, manufacturing, construction, IT, education (teacher apprenticeships are growing). Apprenticeship program overview. (labor.vermont.gov)

Realistic timeline

• Application-to-hire can take 2–8 weeks depending on the employer and trade. Expect background check, drug screen (some trades), and basic math/reading checks.

What to bring

• Photo ID; resume; list of prior jobs/schools; proof of Vermont residency; HS diploma/GED (most programs accept GED); and references.

Common reality checks

• Work hours can start early (6–7 a.m.) and are not always school‑day friendly. Plan child care coverage ahead using CCFAP (details below).

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Try a pre‑apprenticeship built for women: Vermont Works for Women’s “Trailblazers” is a free, 7‑week, evenings‑and‑Saturdays construction pre‑apprenticeship with OSHA‑10, hands‑on skills, and a paid employer placement. Trailblazers details and current cohorts. (vtworksforwomen.org)

2) WIOA‑funded training (tuition help + gear + supportive services)

Most important step: Contact a Job Center specialist and say “I want to be screened for WIOA Adult/Dislocated Worker training funds and supportive services.” Start at (802) 828‑4394 or your local office. Find a Local Job Center. (labor.vermont.gov)

• WIOA = federal training funds managed by Vermont DOL. Priority goes to low‑income adults and people on public assistance. Funds can cover tuition (via an Individual Training Account), books, uniforms, licensing tests, and supportive services like transportation/child care when available. WIOA plan and supportive services description. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
• Vermont receives annual WIOA allotments for Adult, Youth, and Dislocated Worker services (e.g., Adult Program $2.2M\ast \ast inPY2024;Youth\ast \ast$2.30M in PY 2025). Exact individual awards vary by need and availability. Grant listings (Adult/YOUTH/DW), (Youth 2025), (DW 2025). (highergov.com)
• You must choose training from the Vermont Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Ask your counselor to pull matches from Vermont JobLink and ETPL. ETPL info & application. (owsd.vermont.gov)

Realistic timeline

• From intake to training start is commonly 2–6 weeks, longer if the class has fixed start dates or waitlists.

Common reality checks

• Supportive services are not automatic; bring receipts/quotes and ask about caps. Seats can be limited mid‑year.

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Use a VSAC Advancement Grant for short, job‑ready classes (below), or switch to an “earn while you learn” apprenticeship.

3) Short‑term certificates with tuition help (VSAC + CCV)

Most important step: File the FAFSA and the VSAC grant application; then ask CCV advising which certificate paths qualify for free/low tuition under “802 Opportunity” or “Vermont Tuition Advantage.”

• CCV tuition is $290/credit(2025‑26)\ast \ast and\ast \ast$280/credit (2024‑25). Many certificates finish in 1 year; some are fully online. CCV tuition page. (ccv.edu)
• 802 Opportunity: tuition‑free CCV for families with income ≤ $100,000. Works for part‑time or full‑time. 802 Opportunity at CCV (administered by VSAC). (ccv.edu)
• Vermont Tuition Advantage (2024 launch) halves tuition for select CCV programs; ask if your program qualifies this term. Vermont Tuition Advantage FAQ. (ccv.edu)
• VSAC “Advancement Grant” (formerly Non‑Degree) helps with short, job‑focused courses. Limits depend on course cost/need; up to two courses/term, two terms/year, six terms lifetime. VSAC grants (degree + non‑degree). (vsac.org)
• Vermont Trades Forgivable Loan (VSAC): covers tuition/licensing/exams up to $23,000 for eligible trades with a one‑year Vermont work commitment per funded year. Priority deadline typically mid‑February; rolling until funds run out. VSAC Trades Forgivable Loan. (vsac.org)

Realistic timeline

• VSAC grant decisions often take 1–2 weeks once your file is complete. Certificates may start multiple times per year; CCV also offers “Flex” online start windows.

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your Job Center about WIOA funding for the same certificate, or shift to apprenticeship or Vermont Works for Women cohorts while you re‑apply next term.

4) SNAP E&T (ICAN) supports if you get 3SquaresVT

Most important step: If you already have 3SquaresVT, ask to enroll in ICAN for free employment/training supports and reimbursements (transportation, clothing, phone, child care) as allowed. Call 1‑800‑479‑6151 or tell your DCF worker. 3SquaresVT FAQs (ICAN section). (dcf.vermont.gov)

• If you’re subject to the SNAP time‑limited work rule (ages 18–54, not caring for kids, etc.), approved training counts toward the 80 hours/month requirement. Many parents with kids are exempt; confirm with DCF. SNAP work rules in Vermont. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Realistic timeline

• ICAN enrollment and reimbursements vary by district; ask your DCF worker for local timelines and what documents you’ll need to submit for repayment.

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Have the Job Center screen you for WIOA, and apply for VSAC Advancement Grant for the same training.

5) Reach Up/Post‑Secondary Education (PSE) if you have low income and kids at home

Most important step: If you’re raising kids and income is very low, ask DCF about Reach Up and PSE. Reach Up supports employment plans; PSE supports parents in college (income under 150% FPL) with case management, child care help, transportation, supplies, and cash assistance when eligible. Apply via MyBenefits or call 1‑800‑479‑6151. PSE program page and Reach Up overview. (dcf.vermont.gov)

• Note: The Reach Ahead Pilot (cash supplements of $100/month\ast \ast then\ast \ast$50/month) ran July 2023–June 2025. Ask DCF if it’s been extended or replaced locally. Reach Ahead Pilot page (program dates & amounts). (dcf.vermont.gov)

Realistic timeline

• DCF Reach Up/PSE intake decisions vary; plan on 2–4 weeks from complete application to first payments/supports.

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Use CCFAP for child care and VSAC/CCV options while you work with a Job Center on WIOA or apprenticeship.

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Child Care While You Train or Work

Most important step: Apply for the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) as soon as you get a training or job start date.

• CCFAP helps with regulated child care, preschool, and after‑school for working or training parents. As of 2024–2025 rollouts under Act 76, income eligibility expanded up to 575% FPL and many families below 175% FPL have a $0\ast \ast weeklyfamilyshare;otherspayafamilysharebetween\ast \ast$0–$250/week based on income/size. Apply online via the CDDIS Parent Portal or through your local Community Child Care Support Agency. CCFAP page, 2025 FPL update notice, and family share explanation. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• If you exit Reach Up/PSE and land work, ask about transition supports; prior pilot programs have covered maximum child‑care subsidy in the first year of employment (confirm with DCF for current year). Reach Ahead Pilot (ended 6/30/2025). (dcf.vermont.gov)

Common reality checks

• Many providers have waitlists; apply to multiple programs and ask each for their CCFAP experience (billing, openings for your child’s age). Keep copies of work/training schedules and approval letters to resolve any billing questions.

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask your program/case manager if evening/weekend cohorts are available (e.g., Vermont Works for Women Trailblazers runs evenings/Saturdays). Trailblazers schedule. (vtworksforwomen.org)

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Transportation to Work or Class

• Good News Garage “Wheels to Work” places refurbished donated cars with eligible Reach Up families through DCF, and “Ready To Go” provides rides to jobs/child care statewide. Reach Up participants: talk to your case manager. Burlington office: (802) 864‑3667. GNG Vermont programs & contact and contact page. (goodnewsgarage.org)
• Some training programs (ICAN/WIOA) may reimburse mileage or bus passes when funds allow—ask your counselor before you pay. 3SquaresVT ICAN reimbursements overview and WIOA supportive services examples. (dcf.vermont.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov)
• Minimum wage matters for budgeting: Vermont’s 2025 minimum wage is $14.01/hour\ast \ast ;tippedbasewageis\ast \ast$7.01/hour. VDOL minimum wage releases. (labor.vermont.gov)

Plan B if this doesn’t work

• Ask the training provider about hybrid/online formats (e.g., CCV Flex online courses). CCV Flex courses. (ccv.edu)

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Find A Local Job Center (phones, addresses, hours)

Call first—hours vary by location. If you’re not sure which to use, call Workforce Development at (802) 828‑4394.

• Barre–Montpelier (Affiliate): (802) 476‑2600 — 5 Perry St #200, Barre. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Bennington (Affiliate): (802) 442‑6376 — 200 Veterans Memorial Dr, Ste 2. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Brattleboro (Affiliate): (802) 254‑4555 — 28 Vernon St, Ste 410. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Burlington (Comprehensive AJC): (802) 863‑7676 — 63 Pearl St. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Middlebury (Satellite): (802) 388‑4921 — 156 South Village Green, Ste 101. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Morrisville (Satellite): By appt via Barre: (802) 476‑2600.
• Newport (Satellite): (802) 334‑6545 — 100 Main St, Ste 210. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Rutland (Affiliate): (802) 786‑5837 — 88 Merchants Row, 2nd Fl. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• Springfield (Satellite): (802) 289‑0999 — 56 Main St, Ste 101. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• St. Albans (Affiliate): (802) 524‑6585 — 27 Federal St, Ste 100. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• St. Johnsbury (Affiliate): (802) 748‑3177 — 1197 Main St, Ste 1. M–Th walk‑in 9–12 & 1–4; Fri virtual.
• White River Junction (Satellite): 118 Prospect St, #302 — Wed 9–12 & 1–4, other times by appt (802) 476‑2600.
  Official Job Center listing (VDOL). (labor.vermont.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan and go)

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Tables you can use now

A) Fast‑Track Training Paths (what’s covered and how long)

B) Child Care & Work/Training

C) Costs and aid at CCV (examples you’ll hear about)

D) Work & Income Facts (to budget training time)

E) GED/Adult Education while you train

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How to stack supports (with a real‑world example)

Example: “Kayla,” single mom in Rutland with a 3‑year‑old

• She visits the Rutland Job Center (802‑786‑5837) and says, “I want WIOA funding for a CCV medical assisting certificate and help with child care while I train.” The specialist checks ETPL eligibility and starts WIOA intake. Rutland Job Center. (labor.vermont.gov)
• She files the FAFSA, the VSAC Advancement Grant (backup if WIOA funds are tight), and applies for CCFAP through the Parent Portal for her toddler’s spot. VSAC grants and CCFAP apply. (vsac.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
• While waiting on start dates, she uses Vermont JobLink to search local clinics hiring MAs who sponsor apprenticeships or pay for certifications after hire. Vermont JobLink. (vermontjoblink.com)
• If she receives 3SquaresVT, she asks DCF to enroll in ICAN to reimburse gas/child‑care costs tied to training attendance. ICAN in 3SquaresVT FAQs. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Reality checks

• Timing: Expect 2–6 weeks to line up WIOA and child care; apply for multiple providers due to waitlists.
• Budget: If a layoff happens, she can file UI immediately; max $705/week with RESEA services that speed return to work. UI WBA + RESEA, RESEA overview. (labor.vermont.gov)

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Steps that get results (save this)

• Call your nearest Job Center and say: “I want to meet with a career specialist about WIOA training and apprenticeships.” Bring ID, past pay stubs or proof of income, and any training acceptance emails. Job Centers list. (labor.vermont.gov)
• File the FAFSA and VSAC grant now, then pick a certificate or apprenticeship route with your counselor. VSAC grant info. (vsac.org)
• Apply for CCFAP the same week you choose a program; provider waitlists are real. CCFAP apply. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• If you receive SNAP, enroll in ICAN for reimbursements tied to training. 3SquaresVT FAQs (ICAN). (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply for child care until the week class starts. Apply as soon as possible; upload pay stubs/schedules quickly to avoid delays. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Picking a training program that isn’t on Vermont’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). If it’s not approved, WIOA can’t pay tuition. Ask your counselor to check. (owsd.vermont.gov)
• Not asking for supportive services. WIOA and ICAN can sometimes cover tools, uniforms, licenses, mileage, or child care—but only if you ask and submit documentation. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
• Skipping apprenticeships because you think you’re not “handy.” Vermont has healthcare, manufacturing, and education apprenticeships—paid from day one. (labor.vermont.gov)

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

• Switch to a paid pathway: Apply for a registered apprenticeship and ask about pre‑apprenticeship “Trailblazers” to get ready while keeping evenings free. Apprenticeship info, Trailblazers. (labor.vermont.gov, vtworksforwomen.org)
• Use a returnship: Adults returning to work can get a 3‑week paid “returnship” (stipend) to test a new field through Associates for Training & Development (A4TD). Vermont Returnship Program. (a4td.org)
• Stack VSAC with CCV: If WIOA is tapped, use VSAC Advancement Grant and look at 802 Opportunity or Tuition Advantage to lower CCV costs. VSAC grants, 802 Opportunity. (vsac.org, ccv.edu)
• Ask DCF about Reach Up/PSE if your income is very low with children at home—case management plus child care/transport help can stabilize things while you train. PSE/Reach Up. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Diverse Communities: getting the right door the first time

This section highlights Vermont resources that directly support communities of single parents with extra barriers or specific needs.

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Job Centers provide equal access; ask for a counselor experienced with LGBTQ+ job seekers. For inclusive employer practices and coaching, Vermont Works for Women offers free career services. VWW Employment & Career Services. (vtworksforwomen.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities (or parenting children with disabilities): Contact HireAbility Vermont (State Vocational Rehabilitation) for individualized training, assistive tech, job placement, and support to keep a job. Use the State Rehabilitation Council contact if you need help getting started: 802‑277‑7782. DAIL/DVR (HireAbility) overview and SRC contact. (dail.vermont.gov, src.vermont.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Tell the Job Center you are a veteran; veteran staff can give you priority of service and connect you to training and apprenticeships. Use the same local Job Center numbers above and ask for veterans staff. VDOL Employment Services overview. (labor.vermont.gov)
• Immigrant & refugee single moms: The Vermont DOL has a dedicated page with interpretation for resume help, job search, apprenticeship referrals, and job fairs. Burlington’s AALV also provides workforce development and interpretation. DOL page: Refugee & Immigrant Employment Support; AALV: (802) 985‑3106. (labor.vermont.gov, aalv-vt.org)
• Tribal citizens: Ask your Job Center specialist to check for federal Section 166 (Native American employment/training) partners that may serve Vermont residents, and to coordinate supports with WIOA.
• Rural single moms: Use Vermont JobLink, online workshops, and CCV Flex for low‑travel options. Many Job Center services are available virtually and by phone. JobLink, Job Centers, CCV Flex. (vermontjoblink.com, labor.vermont.gov, ccv.edu)
• Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑inclusive. Vermont Works for Women focuses on women and gender‑expansive folks; men can use Job Centers, WIOA, apprenticeships, VSAC, and ICAN.
• Language access: DCF and Job Centers can arrange free interpretation (including ASL) for benefits and employment services. DCF language line: (855) 247‑3092 (Economic Services Division). DCF helplines. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Local organizations that actually help (by type)

Use these as add‑ons to state services; many will write letters, help with forms, and handle referrals.

• Vermont Works for Women (statewide): women‑focused job coaching, Trailblazers pre‑apprenticeship (free, evenings/Saturdays). VWW programs. (vtworksforwomen.org)
• Good News Garage (statewide): car placements for Reach Up families, and Ready To Go rides to work/child care. Burlington: (802) 864‑3667. Programs. (goodnewsgarage.org)
• A4TD (Returnships & SCSEP): paid 3‑week returnships (stipend) for adults returning to work; SCSEP for age 55+ (paid training at nonprofits). A4TD Returnships. (a4td.org)
• Adult Education & Literacy (free GED/ESOL and work skills): find your local center (Vermont Adult Learning, Central VT Adult Education, NEKLS, The Tutorial Center). AOE local directory with phone numbers. (education.vermont.gov)
• Community Action Agencies (regional help with training‑related basics—transportation, emergency needs): Capstone Community Action; CVOEO; BROC; NEKCA; SEVCA. Check each site for your county’s office and services.

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Application Checklist (bring or upload these)

• Photo ID and proof of Vermont residency (lease, utility bill, mail with your name/address).
• Social Security number or ITIN (Vermont allows many pro licenses with ITIN; see licensing note below).
• Proof of income for last 30 days (pay stubs, self‑employment logs) and household size.
• Child(ren)’s ages and proof of custody when asked (school records, benefits letters, or birth certificates).
• Training acceptance email or enrollment plan (program name, start date, cost).
• For WIOA/ICAN supports: estimates/receipts for equipment, books, testing fees, mileage/bus pass needs.
• For CCFAP: work/training schedules, provider name/site number if you have it.

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Paperwork timing matters. WIOA and CCFAP can’t pay for things purchased before you’re approved—always ask your counselor first. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
• Apprenticeships are jobs—expect early shifts, travel to worksites, and outdoor conditions in trades. Ask sponsors about exact hours and travel radius. (labor.vermont.gov)
• SNAP time‑limited rules trip up many. If you’re told you must meet the 80‑hour rule, ask if you’re exempt as a parent and get help from a community partner to document “good cause” if life gets in the way. SNAP work rules & supports, Vermont Foodbank explainer. (dcf.vermont.gov, vtfoodbank.org)
• Licensing if you’re undocumented or waiting on status: Since 2024, Vermont law allows many professional licenses with an ITIN instead of SSN. Confirm with the Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) at (888) 287‑5006. AP coverage of the change and OPR contact listing. (apnews.com, search.vermont211.org)

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Vermont training options worth a look (by interest)

• Health care: CCV clinical medical assisting (certificate); apprenticeships in medical assisting or LPN ladders (ask Job Center); Adult CTE evening programs—check your tech center via MyFutureVT. MyFutureVT: Adult CTE. (myfuturevt.org)
• Manufacturing/IT: Registered apprenticeship; CCV IT certificates; new CCV Project Management certificate (launching fall 2025). CCV PM certificate news. (ccv.edu)
• Construction/renewables: VWW Trailblazers (free, women‑focused); Energy Works heat‑pump installer trainings with stipends through partners listed on MyFutureVT. Trailblazers; Energy Works entry on MyFutureVT. (vtworksforwomen.org, myfuturevt.org)
• Climate/weatherization: Pathways to Climate Careers hub for training programs. MyFutureVT climate pathways. (myfuturevt.org)
• Adults re‑entering after time away: Vermont Returnship Program (stipend, ~3 weeks). A4TD returnships. (a4td.org)

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10 Vermont‑specific FAQs

• Where do I see all Vermont training programs in one place?
  Use Vermont JobLink (training tab) and MyFutureVT. Vermont JobLink, MyFutureVT program finder. (vermontjoblink.com, myfuturevt.org)
• What’s the fastest paid option?
  Apprenticeships (you’re hired and paid from day one). Ask the Job Center to filter current sponsor openings. Apprenticeships. (labor.vermont.gov)
• How do I get gas/gear/books paid for?
  Through WIOA supportive services or SNAP ICAN reimbursements—ask your counselor before you buy. WIOA supportive services; ICAN overview. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)
• Who helps if I have a disability and need training?
  HireAbility Vermont (State Vocational Rehabilitation) provides counseling, training supports, job placement, and workplace accommodations. DAIL/DVR (HireAbility). (dail.vermont.gov)
• What if I can’t afford CCV?
  Check 802 Opportunity (tuition‑free if income ≤ $100k), Tuition Advantage, and VSAC Advancement Grant. 802 Opportunity and VSAC grants. (ccv.edu, vsac.org)
• Can I get child care covered while I train?
  Yes, through CCFAP if you meet the income and service‑need rules; many families have low or zero weekly shares. CCFAP. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• I lost my job. How much is UI and how long?
  Max weekly benefit is $705. Duration depends on your wages; max weeks are set in law (up to 26 in many cases). File immediately. UI WBA and duration. (labor.vermont.gov)
• What’s Vermont’s minimum wage right now?
  $14.01/hour\ast \ast since\ast \ast January1,2025\ast \ast ;tippedbase\ast \ast$7.01. VDOL release. (labor.vermont.gov)
• I’m a SNAP parent—how much could SNAP help with food?
  USDA’s FY 2025 max for a 4‑person household is $975/month (amount depends on income/deductions). USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)
• I don’t have a car. Can anyone drive me to work or training?
  Ask your DCF case manager about Good News Garage “Ready To Go” rides and if you’re in Reach Up, about “Wheels to Work” car placements. Burlington office (802) 864‑3667. GNG Vermont programs. (goodnewsgarage.org)

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Regional resources by area (add these to your toolbox)

• American Job Centers: see the full list with phones & hours (Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Middlebury, Morrisville, Newport, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction). Job Centers list. (labor.vermont.gov)
• Adult Education: phone directories for Vermont Adult Learning, Central VT Adult Education, NEKLS, The Tutorial Center (by county). AOE local services. (education.vermont.gov)
• Immigrant & refugee support: AALV (802) 985‑3106; VDOL Refugee & Immigrant Employment Support page (interpretation available). AALV, DOL page. (aalv-vt.org, labor.vermont.gov)
• Women‑focused training & mentorship: Vermont Works for Women (free career services and Trailblazers). VWW. (vtworksforwomen.org)

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If you’re also juggling GED/ESOL

• Vermont’s GED is $36/subject\ast \ast (\ast \ast$144 total). Adult Education centers provide free prep, tutoring, and ESOL; phone numbers by county are on AOE’s site. AOE – Students (GED) and Local Services directory. (education.vermont.gov)

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Application timelines (what’s realistic)

• Job Center/WIOA intake to training: 2–6 weeks (faster if your program has rolling starts and you bring documents on day one). (wioaplans.ed.gov)
• Apprenticeship hire: 2–8 weeks (depends on employer interviews + background screens). (labor.vermont.gov)
• VSAC Advancement Grant: often 1–2 weeks after your file is complete. (vsac.org)
• CCFAP: timing varies by provider and district; apply early and expect to upload documents promptly. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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When you need a human, fast (phones you can call)

• VDOL Workforce Development (Job Centers): (802) 828‑4394. Contact Workforce Dev. (labor.vermont.gov)
• Burlington Job Center (Comprehensive AJC): (802) 863‑7676. Full statewide list/phones under “Find A Local Job Center.” Job Centers. (labor.vermont.gov)
• DCF Benefits Service Center (3SquaresVT, Reach Up, CCFAP): 1‑800‑479‑6151. DCF helplines. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Good News Garage (transportation): (802) 864‑3667. Contact GNG. (goodnewsgarage.org)
• HireAbility (Vocational Rehabilitation): see contact via SRC coordinator 802‑277‑7782 or local offices via DAIL site. SRC contact. (src.vermont.gov)

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About licenses and immigration status

• Vermont law allows many professional licenses without a Social Security number—ITIN may be accepted—to widen workforce access. Confirm requirements with the Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) at (888) 287‑5006. AP coverage, OPR contact listing. (apnews.com, search.vermont211.org)

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What Vermont’s data says (so you can plan)

• Vermont minimum wage is $14.01/hour in 2025; apprentices must earn at least this or at least 50% of the journey rate, whichever is higher. VDOL min wage; 21 V.S.A. §1117. (labor.vermont.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
• Max UI weekly benefit is $705; RESEA can speed your reemployment with workshops and referrals. UI WBA & RESEA, RESEA. (labor.vermont.gov)
• SNAP (3SquaresVT) max for a 4‑person household in FY 2025 is $975/month (amount depends on income/deductions). USDA FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

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What to do next (3‑step action plan)

• Book a 30‑minute appointment with your nearest Job Center this week. Say “I’m a single parent; I need WIOA or apprenticeship options that fit child care.” Job Centers list. (labor.vermont.gov)
• File FAFSA + VSAC grant, and pre‑apply to CCFAP. Bring your documents to the Job Center so they can move fast on WIOA. VSAC grants, CCFAP. (vsac.org, dcf.vermont.gov)
• If you get SNAP, ask DCF to enroll you in ICAN for reimbursements tied to training right away. 1‑800‑479‑6151. 3SquaresVT ICAN. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Vermont Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and 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.

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Disclaimer

• Program amounts, eligibility rules, and timelines change. Always confirm details with the agency or provider before you spend money or make work/child‑care decisions.
• Health and financial content here is general information, not professional advice. Contact the appropriate agency or a qualified professional for case‑specific guidance.
• We strive to keep this site secure and avoid linking to unsafe third‑party tools. If a link appears broken or suspicious, please email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.

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Citations (selected)

• Vermont Department of Labor – Registered Apprenticeship (program, Act 55), About Apprenticeship: (labor.vermont.gov)
• 21 V.S.A. §1117 (apprentice wage floor & instruction hours): (legislature.vermont.gov)
• VDOL minimum wage increases for 2025 (to $14.01\ast \ast ;tipped\ast \ast$7.01): (labor.vermont.gov)
• UI benefit calculation page (max WBA $705), RESEA overview: (labor.vermont.gov)
• VDOL Job Centers statewide list (phones, hours): (labor.vermont.gov)
• WIOA supportive services examples & combined plan context: (wioaplans.ed.gov, labor.vermont.gov)
• VSAC grants & Trades Forgivable Loan (up to $23,000): (vsac.org)
• CCV tuition ($290/credit\ast \ast 2025‑26;\ast \ast$280 2024‑25), 802 Opportunity: (ccv.edu)
• CCFAP program page, 2025 income guideline updates, family share details, expansion to 575% FPL: (dcf.vermont.gov)
• SNAP (3SquaresVT) work rules & exemptions; ICAN description: (dcf.vermont.gov)
• USDA SNAP FY 2025 maximums (4‑person $975): (fns.usda.gov)
• Good News Garage Vermont (Wheels to Work & Ready To Go) and contact: (goodnewsgarage.org)
• Adult Education costs and local phone listings (GED $36/subject\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$144 total; county contacts): (education.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Works for Women – Trailblazers (free women‑focused pre‑apprenticeship): (vtworksforwomen.org)
• A4TD – Vermont Returnship Program (3‑week paid returnships): (a4td.org)
• DOL Refugee & Immigrant Employment Support; AALV contact: (labor.vermont.gov, aalv-vt.org)
• Professional licensing regardless of immigration status (AP reporting) + OPR contacts: (apnews.com, search.vermont211.org)

This guide follows our Editorial Policy commitments: official sources, link‑testing, and timely corrections. If something here is out of date, please email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48 hours per our policy.

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