Job Training for Single Mothers in Wyoming
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel
Wyoming Job Training for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff Guide to Programs, Dollars, and Next Steps
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows you exactly where to start, who to call, how to qualify, and how much help you can get in Wyoming. Every link goes to an official state site or an established nonprofit.
Quick Help Box
- Call your nearest Workforce Center now to ask for WIOA training help and supportive services. Find locations and phone numbers on the state’s page: Wyoming Workforce Centers (addresses and phones). Statewide phone: (877) WORK‑WYO. (dws.wyo.gov)
- If you’re a low‑income single mom, Climb Wyoming offers free job training + placement (locations statewide). See upcoming trainings and local phone/text numbers: Climb Wyoming – Upcoming Trainings. Examples: Casper text/call 307‑309‑5545, Cheyenne 307‑316‑1449, Gillette 307‑622‑9601, Laramie 307‑314‑4705, Sweetwater 307‑922‑7031, Teton 307‑264‑2885. (climbwyoming.org)
- Need childcare so you can train? Apply for the Wyoming DFS Child Care Subsidy. Policy allows assistance while you’re working, in school, or in approved training. New online portal ECARES launches August 4, 2025 for applications and provider search. Statewide DFS line: 307‑777‑7564 or 800‑457‑3659. Start here: DFS Child Care Assistance and ECARES (Child Care Access). (dfs.wyo.gov)
- On SNAP or TANF (POWER)? Ask for training referrals and supports. POWER can help with work clothes, tools, transportation, vehicle repair, and more; a 3‑person family with no income can receive $781/month. Call 307‑777‑7564 or your local DFS office. Details: POWER Work Program and Monthly Benefit Amounts. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Don’t know where to start? Dial 211 (or 888‑425‑7138) to reach Wyoming 2‑1‑1 for live help finding training, childcare, and bills support. Wyoming 211 – Help Starts Here. (wyoming211.org)
What’s inside
- Fast, practical steps to get training paid for (WIOA, Climb, POWER/TANF, SNAP E&T)
- Exact phone numbers, benefit amounts, and deadlines in Wyoming
- Child care during training (DFS subsidy + ECARES)
- Realistic timelines and common mistakes to avoid
- Contacts by region and a quick‑reference cheat sheet
- Application checklist you can use today
All facts are from the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS), the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS), the Wyoming State Board of Nursing (WSBN), and Climb Wyoming.
Start Here: The fastest path to funded training
- Contact your nearest Workforce Center and ask to be screened for WIOA training funds and supportive services.
- Find your office: Wyoming Workforce Centers (all locations & phones). Example numbers: Casper 307‑234‑4591, Cheyenne 307‑777‑3700, Gillette 307‑682‑9313, Rock Springs 307‑382‑2747, Sheridan 307‑672‑9775. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Say: “I’m a single mom seeking WIOA help for training and supportive services like childcare/transportation.” WIOA pays for approved training on the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). See: Wyoming ETPL (Eligible Training Providers). (dws.wyo.gov)
- What to expect: assessment, an Individual Employment Plan, and if approved, funding for tuition, books, tests, and sometimes child care/transportation. Programs target healthcare, construction/trades, CDL/transportation, and admin/office careers. (dws.wyo.gov)
Plan B if this stalls: apply to Climb Wyoming (below) and ask DFS about POWER or SNAP E&T referrals. (climbwyoming.org, dfs.wyo.gov)
- If your income is low, apply to Climb Wyoming (specialized job training for single moms).
- Climb is a statewide nonprofit for single moms with short, targeted trainings and job placement. Offices in Cheyenne (307‑778‑0094), Casper (307‑237‑2855), Laramie (307‑742‑9346), Gillette (307‑685‑0450), plus Sweetwater and Teton areas (see “upcoming trainings”). Graduates typically double their income within two years. Locations and metrics: Climb Wyoming sites + impact. (climbwyoming.org)
- Example current trainings (as of August–September 2025): CMA in Casper, CNA in Cheyenne, Educational Support Professional in Gillette, Intro Admin Careers in Laramie, Intro to Healthcare in Sweetwater, Medical Admin Assistant in Teton (starts 9/9/25). Trainer contacts and dates are posted here: Climb – Upcoming Trainings. (climbwyoming.org)
Plan B if you can’t join the current cohort: ask to be wait‑listed, attend an info meeting, or call your Workforce Center to pursue a similar training on the ETPL. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Apply for child care help immediately (so training doesn’t collapse).
- DFS Child Care Subsidy covers child care while you work or attend approved school/training. Income rules follow a sliding‑fee scale and cannot exceed 85% of State Median Income (SMI); co‑pays are set by DFS. New online system ECARES opens August 4, 2025 for applications and provider search. Start: DFS Child Care Assistance + ECARES. DFS phone: 307‑777‑7564 or 800‑457‑3659. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- If your child care is paid with SNAP E&T funds, DFS policy caps monthly child care at 200/monthforinfants∗∗and∗∗200/month for infants** and **175/month for age 2+, with up to $250/month extra for a child with documented special needs (approval required). This is written in DFS’s Child Care Subsidy Policy Manual. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Plan B if you’re denied: ask for “presumptive eligibility” (licensed providers can be assured payment for 30 days while your case is processed) and call Wyoming 2‑1‑1 to locate short‑term child care scholarships near you. (dfs.wyo.gov, wyoming211.org)
The main training programs that pay (and how to use them)
Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) – Adult & Dislocated Worker
Most important action: call or visit your Workforce Center and ask for WIOA screening for training and supportive services.
- What it pays: tuition, fees, books, tests, and supportive services (transportation, child/dependent care, licensing and fees, tools/uniforms, housing in limited cases, and needs‑related payments if you’re unemployed in training). Funding is case‑by‑case in high‑demand fields (healthcare, trades, CDL, office tech). Use approved programs on the ETPL. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dws.wyo.gov)
- Who qualifies: adults 18+ who are unemployed, under‑employed, or need new skills to earn a self‑sufficient wage; priority for low income and public assistance recipients. Youth ages 16–24 have a separate track. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Where to apply: Workforce Centers – directory & phones or call (877) WORK‑WYO. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Timeline: screening and planning typically take a few appointments; start dates depend on the training calendar. Ask about on‑the‑job training (OJT) or paid work experience while you learn. (dws.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: apply to Climb Wyoming, ask about Vocational Rehabilitation (if you or your child has a disability), and check apprenticeships that pay a wage while you train. (dws.wyo.gov)
Climb Wyoming – Free job training and placement for single moms
Most important action: call/text your local Climb number and attend the next info meeting.
- What it offers: free short‑term training in careers matched to local demand (CNA, CMA, CDL, office/admin, welding, education support, etc.), plus mental‑health support, coaching, and job placement. Climb reports that graduates often more than double their earnings two years after completing the program. (climbwyoming.org)
- Local contacts and before/after wages (examples from Climb data):
- Cheyenne: 307‑778‑0094; average monthly income rose from 1,160∗∗to∗∗1,160** to **2,450. (climbwyoming.org)
- Casper: 307‑237‑2855; 1,165∗∗to∗∗1,165** to **2,401. (climbwyoming.org)
- Laramie: 307‑742‑9346; 1,045∗∗to∗∗1,045** to **2,175. (climbwyoming.org)
- Gillette: 307‑685‑0450; 1,275∗∗to∗∗1,275** to **2,863. (climbwyoming.org)
- Upcoming start dates (as posted): several August–September 2025 cohorts; Teton area Medical Administrative Assistant starts 9/9/25. Check and call/text listed staff directly. (climbwyoming.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask Climb to refer you to a similar ETPL program and call your Workforce Center to request WIOA funding. (dws.wyo.gov)
Registered Apprenticeships – “earn while you learn”
Most important action: ask your Workforce Center for current apprenticeship openings or contact the state apprenticeship team.
- What it offers: paid training with a Wyoming employer; wage increases as you complete training; state also supports expansion funds for employers (SAEF) up to $5,000 to grow programs (note: incentive goes to the program, not you; but it grows slots). Contact the Wyoming Apprenticeship Team: 307‑777‑5723 or email dws‑apprenticeship@wyo.gov. Info hub: Wyoming Apprenticeships. (dws.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: look for pre‑apprenticeship or short certificates on the ETPL, or combine WIOA classroom training with a paid work experience. (dws.wyo.gov)
POWER (Wyoming’s TANF) – Cash + work program with training support
Most important action: if you have minor children and low income, apply for POWER and ask for the POWER Work Program.
- What it pays: for a 3‑person family with no income, 781/month∗∗;caretaker‑relativeforonechild∗∗781/month**; caretaker‑relative for one child **259/month; case managers can help pay for job‑related costs like work clothing, transportation, vehicle repair, tools/equipment, relocation while you’re building toward a job. Resource limit: $5,000. Program phones: 307‑777‑7564 / 800‑457‑3659. Details: POWER Work Program, Monthly Benefit Amounts, and Income/Resource Rules. (dfs.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for a WIOA referral at the Workforce Center and apply for SNAP (so you can access SNAP E&T services below). (dws.wyo.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) – for SNAP recipients
Most important action: if you receive SNAP, email snappowerservice@wyo.gov or call your local DFS office and ask about SNAP E&T referrals to training and supports.
- What it can cover: education, training, and supportive services if funds are available. DFS policy sets child care caps (if paid from SNAP E&T funds) at 200/monthforinfants∗∗and∗∗200/month for infants** and **175/month for age 2+, with up to $250/month extra for special‑needs child care (documentation required). Start here: SNAP E&T (state page). (dfs.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: pivot to WIOA at your Workforce Center and apply for the DFS Child Care Subsidy so child care isn’t the blocker. (dws.wyo.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
Vocational Rehabilitation (DWS‑DVR) – if you or your child has a disability
Most important action: call DVR to see if they can help pay for training, transportation, equipment, or job coaching as part of your Individualized Plan for Employment.
- What it offers: counseling, training, transportation, assistive tech, job placement, and more—services necessary to reach your employment goal. DVR works with ~4,000 Wyomingites each year. Learn more here: Vocational Rehabilitation (client services guide) and DVR overview. (dws.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: request a WIOA referral and use DFS Child Care + SNAP/LIEAP to stabilize basics while you train. (dws.wyo.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
Money that helps while you train
Child care during training (DFS Child Care Subsidy + ECARES)
- Eligibility highlights: must be working or in an employment‑related educational program or approved training; assistance allowed toward a first bachelor’s degree; co‑pays based on income; benefits adjust with the DFS sliding‑fee scale; maximum eligibility cannot exceed 85% of SMI for your family size. Starting August 4, 2025, apply and search providers in ECARES. State line: 307‑777‑7564 / 800‑457‑3659. Details: DFS Child Care Assistance and ECARES info. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Note on exact income limits: DFS publishes a “Financial Criteria Chart” (effective April 1, 2025) with the exact gross income ceilings by family size. Use that chart when you apply. Link is posted on the DFS page under “Is Child Care Subsidy an Option for My Family?” (dfs.wyo.gov)
Federal Pell Grant (for community colleges and many certificate programs)
- For the 2025‑26 award year (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026), the maximum Pell Grant is 7,395∗∗;theminimumPell(rounded)is∗∗7,395**; the minimum Pell (rounded) is **740. You must complete the FAFSA. Source: U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter GEN‑25‑02 and FSA Handbook. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Wyoming Works Grants (community college programs that lead to jobs)
- Grants (2025‑26 posted amounts) typically pay up to 1,680/year∗∗(Standard)or∗∗1,680/year** (Standard) or **3,360/year (Critical) based on need and program; some colleges state per‑semester caps. Apply through your college’s financial aid office after FAFSA; funding is limited and may close early if fully utilized. Check the latest at your college:
- LCCC – Wyoming Works
- Central Wyoming College – Wyoming Works Grant
- Gillette College – Wyoming Works
- Casper College – Wyoming Works (note: page indicates 2025/26 funds fully utilized—ask your school for status). (lccc.wy.edu, cwc.smartcatalogiq.com, gillettecollege.org, caspercollege.edu)
SNAP benefits while training
- Wyoming SNAP monthly income limits and maximum allotments (Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025) are posted by DFS; e.g., a 3‑person household gross income cap at 130% FPL = 2,798/month∗∗withamaximumallotmentof∗∗2,798/month** with a maximum allotment of **768. See the full table on DFS’s SNAP policy page. (dfs.wyo.gov)
LIEAP (heat bills) while you study
- LIEAP seasonal help (up to 60% of state median income eligibility) accepts applications each fall through April 30, 2026; crisis help also available. This can stabilize your budget during training. Start here: DFS LIEAP overview. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Snapshot: Which program fits your situation?
| If you need… | Start with | What it can pay | Who qualifies (basics) | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition, books, tests, tools | WIOA (Adult) | Case‑by‑case funding for ETPL programs; supportive services like transportation/childcare | Adults 18+ who are unemployed/under‑employed or need skills; priority for low income | Workforce Centers or (877) WORK‑WYO (dws.wyo.gov) |
| A supported path just for single moms | Climb Wyoming | Free training + job placement; coaching; support | Low‑income single moms with kids at home | Climb – Upcoming Trainings (climbwyoming.org) |
| Paid training with a paycheck | Registered Apprenticeship | Paid “earn while you learn,” raises as you progress | Hired by an employer sponsor | Wyoming Apprenticeships or 307‑777‑5723 (dws.wyo.gov) |
| Cash + job prep | POWER (TANF) | $781/mo (family of 3, no income) + help with work clothes, tools, transport | Low‑income families with children | DFS POWER or 307‑777‑7564 (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Childcare during training | DFS Child Care Subsidy (ECARES) | Sliding‑fee; up to 85% SMI rules; co‑pays apply | Working, in school, or in approved training | DFS Child Care + ECARES (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| SNAP training supports | SNAP E&T | Training/education; DFS policy caps child care at 200∗∗infant/∗∗200** infant / **175 age 2+; +$250 special‑needs add‑on | SNAP recipients referred to E&T | SNAP E&T (dfs.wyo.gov) |
Popular training tracks and real‑world details
| Field | Typical path in WY | What to know | Where to confirm/learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) | Short program (weeks), state exam via Headmaster | WSBN fees: initial licensure 125∗∗;optionaltemppermit∗∗125**; optional temp permit **25; testing vendor fee 127∗∗total(∗∗127** total (**32 knowledge + $95 skills). Contact WSBN 307‑777‑7601. | Wyoming State Board of Nursing – CNA info & fees (wsbn.wyo.gov) |
| Medical Admin/Assistant | Short training via Climb or community college; often 6–12 weeks for admin basics | Climb Teton’s Medical Admin Assistant training starts 9/9/25 and can be as short as “in as little as six weeks” (per site post). | Climb – Upcoming trainings (climbwyoming.org) |
| CDL/Transportation | ETPL providers; sometimes offered by Climb | Prioritize programs on Wyoming’s ETPL for WIOA funding; ask about exam fees and DOT card. | Wyoming ETPL (dws.wyo.gov) |
| Office/Admin skills | Climb “Intro Admin Careers” or ETPL certificates | Great for school hours and steady schedules; ask WIOA for books/testing/software coverage. | Climb – Laramie (climbwyoming.org) |
| Welding/Trades | Certificate via ETPL or Climb Casper cohorts | Trades often pair well with apprenticeships; ask DWS about pre‑apprenticeship. | Climb – Casper + Apprenticeships (climbwyoming.org, dws.wyo.gov) |
Real‑world examples (Wyoming)
- A Casper mom moved from $10/hour gas station work to a CDL role with steady pay after Climb training; she no longer needed food stamps, per Climb’s profile. (climbwyoming.org)
- Across sites, Climb reports local average monthly incomes roughly doubling post‑program (e.g., Cheyenne 1,160→1,160→2,450; Laramie 1,045→1,045→2,175). These are posted on each location’s page. (climbwyoming.org)
Child care: what to submit and how to speed it up
Documents that commonly cause delays:
- ID, Social Security numbers, proof of Wyoming residency (lease, utility), birth certificates for kids, and proof of your training/work hours.
- If in college or training, submit your class schedule and contact info for the training provider.
- For employment, your employer’s statement (DFS form) with hours and pay rate.
DFS notes presumptive eligibility can authorize up to 30 days of licensed care while your case is processed; ask your worker. Apply via ECARES after August 4, 2025. Start here: DFS Child Care Assistance. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Turning in a training plan without checking the ETPL. If it’s not on the ETPL, WIOA usually won’t fund it. Check first. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Waiting to secure child care until a week before class. File your DFS Child Care application as soon as you get a tentative class date. ECARES will speed this up, but allow time. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Not asking for supportive services. WIOA and POWER can help with transportation, tools, tests, and fees if it’s in your plan—ask. (wioaplans.ed.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
- Skipping the FAFSA. Even for short programs, Pell and Wyoming Works can reduce or eliminate costs. Maximum Pell for 2025‑26 = $7,395. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Missing E&T childcare caps. If DFS pays child care through SNAP E&T funds, caps are 200/month(infant)∗∗and∗∗200/month (infant)** and **175/month (age 2+), with $250/month extra for special‑needs care—budget accordingly. (dfs.wyo.gov)
What to do if you hit a wall: call Wyoming 2‑1‑1 or your Workforce Center and ask for a case conference to sort out funding + child care together. (wyoming211.org, dws.wyo.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Action | Phone/Link |
|---|---|---|
| WIOA training funds | Call nearest Workforce Center; ask for WIOA intake | Centers & phones or (877) WORK‑WYO (dws.wyo.gov) |
| Free training for single moms | Attend Climb info meeting | Upcoming trainings + contacts (climbwyoming.org) |
| Child care during training | Apply for DFS Child Care via ECARES (from Aug 4, 2025) | 307‑777‑7564 / 800‑457‑3659; DFS Child Care (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| TANF cash + job supports | Apply for POWER Work Program | POWER |
| SNAP training support | Ask DFS about SNAP E&T | SNAP E&T (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Apprenticeships | Ask DWS Apprenticeship Team | 307‑777‑5723; Wyoming Apprenticeships (dws.wyo.gov) |
| GED/HiSET if you need HSEC first | Contact local Adult Education center; HiSET/GED accepted in WY | WCCC High School Equivalency (HSEC) and HiSET Wyoming (communitycolleges.wy.edu, hiset.org) |
| One‑stop resource help | Wyoming 2‑1‑1 | Dial 211 or 888‑425‑7138; Wyoming 211 (wyoming211.org) |
Application Checklist (print this)
- Government ID and Social Security numbers for you and your kids
- Proof of Wyoming residency (lease, utility bill)
- Proof of income (pay stubs or benefits letters) and resources (POWER has $5,000 limit)
- Class or training schedule (or ETPL program printout) + start date
- Child care provider info (name, EIN/SSN), your work/school schedule, and completed DFS Child Care forms
- FAFSA confirmation (for Pell/Wyoming Works)
- If SNAP: your SNAP case info for SNAP E&T referral
- If disability services could help: medical/IEP/504 documentation for DVR
- Ask every program about supportive services (transportation, tools, fees, tests) and put them in your written plan (WIOA IEP or DVR IPE) (dfs.wyo.gov, dws.wyo.gov)
Local organizations and statewide supports
- Wyoming 2‑1‑1: 211 or 888‑425‑7138 – referrals for job training, bills, child care, health. Wyoming 211. (wyoming211.org)
- Climb Wyoming (statewide offices): Cheyenne 307‑778‑0094, Casper 307‑237‑2855, Laramie 307‑742‑9346, Gillette 307‑685‑0450, plus posted Sweetwater/Teton contacts on the trainings page. Climb locations. (climbwyoming.org)
- Wyoming DWS Equal Opportunity & Language Access: TTY/Relay 7‑1‑1 or 800‑877‑9954. DWS Equal Opportunity. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Wyoming State Board of Nursing (CNA testing/licensing): 307‑777‑7601. WSBN CNA announcements & fees. (wsbn.wyo.gov)
Diverse Communities: targeted tips and contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Ask your Workforce Center for an EO notice and inclusive services; DWS complies with nondiscrimination laws (sexual orientation and gender identity covered). Contact DWS EO Officer: 307‑777‑7807; TTY 7‑1‑1 / 800‑877‑9954. DWS Equal Opportunity. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child
- Contact DVR for training, transportation, and assistive tech built into your plan. DVR can pay for services necessary to reach your employment goal. Start with your local DVR office through DWS. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Workforce Centers have priority services for veterans and spouses; ask for the veterans employment representative when you check in. DWS Job Seekers – Veterans section. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms (work‑authorized)
- Bring your work authorization. Ask for language assistance; DWS provides auxiliary aids and services on request. TTY/Relay 7‑1‑1 or 800‑877‑9954 for hearing services. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Tribal resources (on/off reservation)
- Combine tribal programs with WIOA at the Workforce Center. Ask for co‑enrollment and supportive services coordination (transport, tools, childcare). Wyoming’s WIOA state plan emphasizes coordination to avoid duplication and maximize benefits. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Rural moms with limited access or internet
- Call the Workforce Center and ask about virtual orientations, mileage support (when available), and local test sites. If winter roads are an issue, ask your case manager for remote‑learning options and adjusted timelines. Workforce Centers directory. (dws.wyo.gov)
- Single fathers
- All programs in this guide are gender‑neutral unless a nonprofit sets its own focus. Single dads can use WIOA, POWER, SNAP E&T, DFS Child Care, apprenticeships, and DVR on the same terms. See agency links above.
- Language access
- Request an interpreter when you schedule your Workforce Center or DFS appointment. DWS/DFS provide language assistance at no cost and publish Babel notices for critical documents. (dws.wyo.gov)
Regional contacts at a glance (selected)
| Region | Workforce Center phone | Climb Wyoming phone |
|---|---|---|
| Cheyenne | 307‑777‑3700 | 307‑778‑0094 (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
| Casper | 307‑234‑4591 | 307‑237‑2855 (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
| Laramie | 307‑742‑2153 | 307‑742‑9346 (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
| Gillette | 307‑682‑9313 | 307‑685‑0450 (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
| Rock Springs (Sweetwater) | 307‑382‑2747 | see Upcoming Trainings for Sweetwater contact (e.g., 307‑922‑7031) (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
| Jackson (Teton) | 307‑733‑4091 | see Upcoming Trainings (e.g., 307‑264‑2885) (dws.wyo.gov, climbwyoming.org) |
Timelines: what’s realistic
- WIOA screening to training start: usually a few appointments + program start date; allow 2–6 weeks depending on the class calendar and documentation you provide. WIOA lists services and key industries; decisions are case‑by‑case. (dws.wyo.gov)
- DFS Child Care: presumptive eligibility can authorize up to 30 days for licensed providers while your case is processed; full authorization typically within 30 days of application if documents are complete. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- POWER (TANF): application + interview; once approved, monthly benefits and work activities begin; ask your case manager to align child care and training hours. Program details and payments are posted on DFS’s site. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- CNA licensing/testing: after training, schedule Headmaster testing; WSBN notes fees and temporary permits (valid 120 days) if eligible. (wsbn.wyo.gov)
Short tables you can use
Table — Funding sources side‑by‑side
| Program | Max $/Benefit (examples) | Notes/Eligibility | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pell Grant (2025‑26) | Up to $7,395 | FAFSA required; amount depends on SAI and enrollment | ED Pell amounts 2025‑26 (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Wyoming Works | Up to 1,680/yr∗∗(Standard)or∗∗1,680/yr** (Standard) or **3,360/yr (Critical) | Only in approved programs; limited funding | LCCC – Wyoming Works (lccc.wy.edu) |
| POWER (TANF) | $781/mo (3‑person, no income) | Cash + training supports | DFS – Monthly Benefit Amounts (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| SNAP E&T child care | 200/mo∗∗infant;∗∗200/mo** infant; **175/mo age 2+; +$250/mo special‑needs add‑on | If child care paid from E&T funds; DFS approval needed | DFS Child Care Policy Manual (SNAP E&T caps) (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Registered Apprenticeship | Paid wage while training (varies) | Apply to employer sponsor; DWS can connect you | Wyoming Apprenticeships (dws.wyo.gov) |
Table — Child care during training: key points
| Item | Wyoming policy snapshot | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Work or training covered? | Yes—working, in school, or approved training; first bachelor’s degree allowed | DFS Child Care Assistance (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Income test | Sliding‑fee scale; cannot exceed 85% SMI by family size | DFS policy/manual and Financial Criteria Chart (effective Apr 1, 2025) (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Processing help | Presumptive eligibility for licensed care up to 30 days | DFS policy manual (benefit timelines) (dfs.wyo.gov) |
Table — CNA costs (if you choose this path)
| Cost item | Amount |
|---|---|
| WSBN initial licensure fee | $125 |
| Optional temporary permit | $25 (valid 120 days) |
| Testing vendor (Headmaster) | 127∗∗total(∗∗127** total (**32 knowledge + $95 skills) |
Source: WSBN CNA announcements/fees. (wsbn.wyo.gov)
Step‑by‑step: putting it together
- Call the Workforce Center and schedule WIOA intake. Bring ID, proof of WY address, income, and your target program (print ETPL page). (dws.wyo.gov)
- In the same week, call Climb Wyoming to join the next info meeting (keep both tracks moving—WIOA and Climb). (climbwyoming.org)
- File the FAFSA and ask your college about Wyoming Works eligibility for your program. (lccc.wy.edu)
- Apply for DFS Child Care via ECARES (from Aug 4, 2025). Ask about presumptive eligibility if your start date is close. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- If you’re low‑income with kids, submit a POWER application and ask for the POWER Work Program so supportive services (e.g., tools, transport, work clothing) can be added to your plan. (dfs.wyo.gov)
What to do when something goes wrong
- If your WIOA request is denied: ask for the reason in writing and whether another ETPL program would qualify. Then call Climb and DVR (if applicable). (dws.wyo.gov)
- If child care isn’t approved before your start date: ask your DFS worker about presumptive eligibility and consider a licensed provider for the first 30 days to trigger it. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- If you can’t reach your DFS worker: use the main DFS line 307‑777‑7564 / 800‑457‑3659, or contact the DFS Ombudsman listed on the DFS home page. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- If you need more help: dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211 for referrals. (wyoming211.org)
10 Wyoming‑specific FAQs
- Can WIOA cover my full tuition?
- It can, if your plan and budget are approved, and the program is on the ETPL. Funding is case‑by‑case in targeted industries. Ask at your Workforce Center. (dws.wyo.gov)
- How much is TANF (POWER) for a 3‑person family?
- DFS lists $781/month for a three‑person assistance unit with no income. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Can I get child care help while in college?
- Yes, DFS allows assistance while attending classes toward a first bachelor’s degree; income and activity rules apply. Apply via ECARES starting August 4, 2025. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- I get SNAP—what training help can I get?
- Ask for SNAP E&T. Depending on funds, it can cover training costs and limited child care at DFS policy caps (200/monthinfant;200/month infant; 175/month age 2+; +$250 special‑needs add‑on). (dfs.wyo.gov)
- What’s the 2025‑26 Pell maximum?
- 7,395∗∗(minimum∗∗7,395** (minimum **740). FAFSA required. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Are apprenticeships paid?
- Yes, registered apprentices earn a wage while training; the state also offers employer incentives to expand slots (up to $5,000 to programs). Contact 307‑777‑5723. (dws.wyo.gov)
- I need a high school credential first.
- Wyoming recognizes GED and HiSET. Contact your local Adult Education center via the Wyoming Community College Commission. (communitycolleges.wy.edu)
- How soon can child care start?
- With presumptive eligibility, licensed care can be assured for 30 days while your case processes; otherwise, DFS aims to authorize within 30 days. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Where do I find jobs after training?
- Use the state’s HireWYO system and your Workforce Center. Start here: Job Search (DWS). (dws.wyo.gov)
- Who do I call if I face discrimination or need accommodations?
- DWS Equal Opportunity Officer 307‑777‑7807; TTY/Relay 7‑1‑1 / 800‑877‑9954. (dws.wyo.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, Wyoming Department of Family Services, Wyoming State Board of Nursing, U.S. Department of Education, and established nonprofits (Climb Wyoming). 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.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change at any time. Always verify with the agency links and phone numbers in this guide before making decisions.
- Health, safety, and licensing steps (like CNA) have legal requirements; follow agency instructions carefully.
- Website security reminder: to protect your information, apply only through the official .gov websites or the trusted nonprofit sites cited above. Never share personal data over public Wi‑Fi.
🏛️More Wyoming Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wyoming
- 📋 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
