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So many job-seekers are facing invisible barriers. Folks who don’t have well-paying jobs are more susceptible to homelessness and food insecurity. And then, those barriers only compound because of the associated stigma in seeking or accepting help.
If you’re facing food insecurity, know that you’re not alone. Most Americans receive some form of government assistance in their lifetime. Public assistance helps countless Americans who are going through transitions, trying to raise their families, and working hard to conquer seen and unseen obstacles in the face of stigma, exclusion, and misunderstanding.
Stigma. Access. Inequity. The same conditions that impact our job-seekers impact their relationships to food and housing. And when we work to change the stereotypes, we’re better equipped to change the conditions.
If you’re a SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipient, you’ve probably heard that free job training and skill-building programs are available to help you find work and build your skills. But figuring out which to choose can be overwhelming — particularly when the details of each program are not always very clear.
That’s why, in this article, we’ve gathered together the best options for free classes for SNAP recipients, so you can get the ball rolling right away.
While many of these opportunities are offered through state-run government programs, we’ll start by sharing the free programs for SNAP recipients that we offer at our nonprofit organization, Climb Hire.
Climb Hire’s free job training programs in IT support and digital marketing are designed to provide you with the skills you need to secure a well-paying job in growing industries. We go beyond just technical skills training. Instead, we provide a supportive community, offer soft skills development, and give you one-on-one job placement assistance to make sure you land a lucrative job and can start your new career with confidence.
In fact, 80% of Climb Hire alumni secure roles within 12 months of graduating, typically with starting salaries of $50k or more.
By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge you need to move forward. Whether you want the ease and support of Climb Hire or prefer to explore state-sponsored training programs in your area, you’ll know your options and how to take the next steps.
Both programs are available to low-income working adults, including SNAP recipients, and they are designed to give you the technical and professional skills you need to land a job as soon as you graduate.
1. IT Support
In this program, you’ll spend six months learning the technical skills to earn CompTIA A+ certification, the industry-standard credential for entry-level IT support jobs. You’ll also have the opportunity to study for the Google IT Support Professional certificate.
This program focuses on the foundational skills you’ll need to work in the IT industry, like troubleshooting hardware and software issues, setting up devices, and providing technical support to users. Upon completing the program, you’ll be ready to excel in roles like IT support specialist, desktop support technician, or help desk technician.
2. Paid Search Marketing Certification
This program teaches you the ins and outs of paid search marketing, an in-demand area of digital marketing. Over four months, we prepare you to work in the industry by teaching you how to create and manage ad campaigns on Google and Meta platforms, covering everything from audience targeting to performance optimization.
The program ends with you earning Google Ads, Meta Ads, and HubSpot Inbound Marketing certifications—credentials that stand out to employers and help you easily step into roles in digital marketing and advertising.
Thanks to our team’s intensive efforts to secure funding through government grants and philanthropic support, we’re able to offer free tuition to all of our students. Our goal is simple: to help you land a new job. Climb Hire is for people who are ready to commit to both the coursework and our career development work to successfully start their new careers.
What makes Climb Hire unique
At Climb Hire, we provide thorough training and dedicated support to give you the best chance to succeed in the workforce. This includes:
Live, remote classes led by expert instructors who guide you through each lesson in real time, making sure you get the support you need. The remote format also makes it easier to fit classes into a busy schedule.
Soft skills and job readiness training, covering topics like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These are not only key elements in any professional role, but they also help you stand out in interviews and increase your chances of getting hired.
An amazing community of peers, where you’ll collaborate with others who are on the same career journey, providing motivation and support.
One-on-one job placement assistance with a Career Development Advisor who will support and guide you as you search for jobs. Plus, they’ll help you refine your resume and cover letters and hone your interviewing skills.
Access to a broad professional network of industry professionals, giving you valuable connections that can help open doors to job opportunities.
The enrollment process is simple: you apply, have a brief interview, and if you’re a good fit, you’re in.
Once accepted, you just start the program — no complicated steps or government hoops to jump through. Because the programs are designed to give you a practical understanding of the job market, you’ll be prepared to land a job and start your new career path with confidence.
Plus, thanks to our thorough training and dedicated job placement support, 80% of Climb Hire alumni land roles within 12 months of graduating, typically earning starting salaries upwards of $50k.
Our alumni have great things to say about their experiences with us and how we’ve helped them transform their careers. Here’s what one graduate had to share:
“Before Climb Hire, I was struggling to maintain a job. I was working a variety of different jobs, ranging from security to In-N-Out. I didn’t have a professional network to help guide me toward success. I’m currently blessed to be working at Checkr on the technical team. Climb Hire was able to help connect me with this opportunity. They really helped keep me motivated and also helped me build the confidence I needed to land that awesome dream job.”
Alternative Free Classes for SNAP Recipients by State
Each US state runs its own SNAP Employment and Training program (E&T), most of which connect you with and cover the cost of local training opportunities through schools, community colleges, and training centers. Many also include funding to help with things like child care and transportation.
Navigating these programs can sometimes be tricky. Each state has different offerings, and the enrollment process usually involves paperwork, wait times, and working closely with an E&T specialist to identify eligible training options.
On top of that, the types of training available can vary significantly by state. This means you might not have access to programs in just any field, so flexibility is key when exploring your options.
Even with these limitations, many of these programs provide good opportunities to build marketable skills.
Free job training programs in your state
Alabama: In Alabama, free programs for SNAP recipients are run through United Ways of Alabama, where you’ll have access to job training in fields like medical billing and coding, pipe fitting, and more through its A-RESET program. Contact United Ways of Alabama for more information.
Alaska: Alaska’s SNAP E&T program details are available by speaking to an E&T specialist, where they’ll share the process and the specific training opportunities available.
Arizona: Arizona offers a variety of training programs through its SNAP CAN Training initiative, such as construction, culinary, auto tech, and more. Details about how to enroll and what exactly is offered are available by speaking to a local provider from your area.
Arkansas: Arkansas SNAP E&T resources are provided through ARWorks Resource, including partnerships with local training providers by county. You can find specific information about what’s available by contacting a provider from your area.
Colorado: The Employment First (EF) program in Colorado provides skills training and employment support to SNAP recipients. The program is available in 32 counties through local human and social services offices and various third-party partners. To learn more about available programs and how to get started, reach out to the State Staff. ○Read more: Free job training programs in Colorado
Delaware: If you’re a SNAP recipient in Delaware, you should contact their local service center for information about available training opportunities through the E&T program.
Florida: Information about Florida’s SNAP E&T program and how to access it is available by reaching out to your local service center.
Georgia: The SNAP Works Program in Georgia provides short-term vocational training for specific jobs to SNAP recipients. For additional details, get in touch with a SNAP E&T Program contact, available in the SNAP E&T provider manual.
Hawaii: If you’re a SNAP recipient in Hawaii, reach out to a SNAP officer for detailed information on job training opportunities through the state’s E&T program.
Idaho: Idaho’s SNAP E&T program will help connect you with job training programs in your area and offers one-on-one career coaching. To learn more, you have to contact them directly by phone.
Illinois: Illinois provides SNAP E&T services through the state’s Department of Human Services, offering short-term technical training, job search assistance, and help with soft skills. For additional information, contact the administrative office in your county.
Indiana: Through Indiana’s SNAP E&T program IMPACT, you’ll work with a case manager to connect you with local training classes in areas like healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology. Your case manager will also work with you to help you find a job once you’ve completed the class.
Iowa: The SNAP E&T program in Iowa provides a range of services, including short-term vocational training, GED preparation, and two-year degree programs in in-demand industries. For more information, contact your local provider.
Kansas: Available through the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), Kansas SNAP E&T offers various employment-focused services like training and job readiness courses. To learn more, contact DCF customer service.
Kentucky: The Department of Community Based Services runs the E&T services for Kentucky SNAP recipients, including job training tailored to local workforce needs in fields like welding and plumbing. More information about the services offered is available by contacting your local SNAP E&T provider.
Louisiana: Louisiana’s E&T program helps SNAP recipients connect with training programs and volunteer opportunities to gain skills and work experience. To learn more, contact one of the state’s service providers.
Maine: In Maine, the E&T program provides local training opportunities to SNAP recipients through service providers across the state. Access to these opportunities is available by contacting a service provider directly.
Maryland: Maryland’s E&T program for SNAP recipients connects you with training and education opportunities. A detailed list of available programs can be found here. You can contact your chosen provider directly for more information.
Massachusetts: Free job training for SNAP recipients in Massachusetts is available through the state’s Path to Work program. On the program website, you can search for different opportunities available by program type and location. You can also contact the Department of Transitional Assistance for more details.
Michigan: Michigan SNAP recipients who are ready to work can utilize the state’s Food Assistance Employment and Training (FAE&T) program, with services like vocational training, career planning, and job search assistance. Opportunities are tailored to help participants gain skills and find sustainable employment. For details, visit the Michigan Works website or contact their office.
Minnesota: Minnesota’s SNAP E&T program connects recipients with a range of opportunities, including job training classes in fields like agriculture, information technology, manufacturing, and health care. Services are offered through local organizations across the state. To get started, contact a program provider listed on the state’s SNAP E&T directory.
Mississippi: The Skills2Work program in Mississippi connects SNAP recipients with a support specialist, who will help you connect to vocational training and provide job placement assistance. For more details, contact the Mississippi Department of Human Services Workforce division.
Missouri: Missouri’s SkillUP program offers free vocational training, job readiness workshops, and career planning services for SNAP recipients. Additional information is available by contacting your local SkillUp provider.
Montana: Montana’s SNAP E&T program provides recipients with employment-related supportive services, including job training classes. Contact your local Office of Public Assistance or the Montana Public Assistance helpline for more information.
Nebraska: Through the Next Step program, SNAP recipients in Nebraska work with a Workforce Coordinator who connects you to education and skills training. To find out more, contact a service provider in your area.
Nevada: The SNAP E&T program in Nevada provides training and job readiness services through partnerships with colleges in the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). For more details, contact the specific provider offering the course you wish to pursue.
New Hampshire: New Hampshire’s E&T program is partnered with the Community College System of New Hampshire and provides free classes for SNAP recipients. What’s available is tailored to local workforce needs, with opportunities in fields like healthcare and technology. Contact a career counselor to learn more.
New Jersey: In New Jersey, SNAP recipients can take advantage of the state’s E&T program, which connects you with short-term technical or vocational training programs. These services are delivered through local providers across the state. To explore your options, contact your SNAP case worker or your County Social Service Agency.
New Mexico: New Mexico’s SNAP E&T program connects participants with vocational training and career support to help secure meaningful employment and gain self-sufficiency. Contact the New Mexico Human Services Department for more details.
New York: Operated by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, New York’s SNAP E&T program offers job training, employment, and job retention services. Contact your local department of social services to get more information.
North Carolina: The SNAP E&T program in North Carolina runs through the state’s Department of Health and Human Services and connects participants with training and job readiness services tailored to local workforce needs. For more information, refer to the SNAP E&T handbook.
North Dakota: The E&T program in North Dakota is called Work Connections, which connects SNAP participants to industry-specific training programs and other educational opportunities. Contact the Work Connections state office for more information.
Ohio: Ohio’s SNAP E&T program offers job training and personal career support services. Operated through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, these opportunities aim to build skills aligned with workforce demands. You can either call the office or visit the program portal online for more details.
Oklahoma: SNAP recipients in Oklahoma can benefit from OK SNAP Works, the state’s E&T program that provides job training and job search assistance. Services are delivered through partnerships with local organizations. Contact an OK SNAP Works partner to learn more.
Oregon: In Oregon, the SNAP E&T program is called STEP and offers skill-building opportunities — including free vocational training — to help you secure employment. Get in touch with your area’s Department of Human Services office for more information.
Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania’s E&T program connects SNAP recipients with various services, including career-specific job training and college courses. Services are available through local providers across the state. Contact your SNAP team for additional details.
Rhode Island: Rhode Island’s E&T program is called Road To Work, offered through the state’s Department of Human Services. The Road To Work website shows a full list of current training opportunities available. For more information, fill out the program’s contact form.
South Carolina: Operated by the Department of Social Services, South Carolina’s SNAP E&T program has several career advancement services, including skills training, career counseling, and job search assistance. More information is available by contacting your county’s E&T coordinator.
South Dakota: In South Dakota, SNAP recipients can access the Work Connections program, which focuses on employment-related training and support. Contact the state’s SNAP E&T office for further details.
Tennessee: Tennessee’s E&T program gives SNAP recipients access to job training and other workforce development resources. More information is available when you fill out a request form.
Texas: Texas’s SNAP E&T program is available through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), giving SNAP recipients access to vocational training and several other career advancement services. To find out more, contact the TWC office or submit a request form.
Utah: Utah’s SNAP E&T program offers career support and various vocational training opportunities for roles like commercial vehicle operator, pharmacy technician, and nursing assistant. You can apply for the E&T program by submitting an application, either online or at a local employment center.
Vermont: ICAN (Individual Career Advancement Network) is Vermont’s E&T program that provides several career advancement services, including training to 3SquaresVT recipients (Vermont’s version of SNAP). To get started with the ICAN program, fill out an online questionnaire.
Virginia: Virginia’s SNAP E&T program provides job training, career counseling, and employment services through partnerships with local organizations. For more details, use the QR code on the state’s E&T flyer to access contact information for your local office.
Washington: Washington’s Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program provides skills training, job search training, and other career support to Basic Food recipients (Washington’s version of SNAP). Programs are offered through community-based organizations and community and technical colleges. Contact a BFET provider for additional information.
West Virginia:SNAP E&T services in West Virginia include training, career guidance, and job placement support. More detailed information is available by contacting your SNAP worker.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin’s FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) program provides free career development services to SNAP recipients, including job skills training. These services are offered through local agencies across the state. Contact the FSET agency in your area to determine the local opportunities available.
Wyoming: Run by the Department of Family Services (DFS), the SNAP E&T program in Wyoming offers a range of employment-focused resources, including skill training courses. Get in touch with your local DFS office, where an eligibility worker will give you additional details.
Washington, D.C.: The District of Columbia’s E&T program offers employment and job training services to SNAP recipients. All services are offered through partner SNAP E&T providers. Call or email the SNAP E&T office for more details.
Free Job Training for SNAP Recipients with Climb Hire
If you’re receiving SNAP benefits and looking to find a rewarding new career path, Climb Hire offers free, fully remote training programs in IT support and digital marketing. These tech training programs will help you build the skills and get the certifications needed to land a stable, well-paying job in growing industries.
Take advantage of this opportunity and apply today!
FAQs
Who is eligible for SNAP Education?
SNAP Education (SNAP E&T) is available to people who receive SNAP benefits and meet basic work or training participation requirements, which vary by state. Eligibility often includes unemployed or underemployed adults seeking skills, credentials, or job readiness support through approved providers like Climb Hire.
What kind of training programs can I find for free if I receive SNAP benefits?
If you receive SNAP benefits, you may access free job training programs such as career readiness, digital skills, IT support, data analytics, healthcare pathways, and customer service training. Programs like Climb Hire also offer coaching, certifications, and employer connections at no cost.
How do I find free educational programs for unemployed people who are on food assistance?
You can find free education programs by contacting your local SNAP office, workforce development center, or community college. Many nonprofit organizations, including Climb Hire, partner with SNAP E&T to provide no-cost training, career coaching, and job placement support for unemployed individuals.
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This post is sponsored and contributed by a Patch Brand Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own.