About this service
CalWORKs Employment Services connects CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work recipients with job search assistance, training, and individualized support to prepare for and obtain education and employment. Services are provided by the Employment and Training Branch at no cost to eligible participants.
After referral, participants are required to attend a Welfare-to-Work Orientation and Appraisal, where they meet with a case manager to review program requirements, available supportive services, and next steps.
Who this service is for
- CalWORKs recipients who are work-eligible
- CalWORKs recipients referred to Welfare-to-Work by their eligibility worker
- Participants who need support with employment, training, or overcoming barriers to employment
Details
CalWORKs Employment Services focuses on helping participants move toward self-sufficiency through employment and education. Services are tailored to each participant and may include:
- Job search assistance and workshops
- Education and training opportunities
- Career planning and goal setting
- Referrals to supportive services to address barriers
Participants work closely with a case manager to develop a plan and access the services needed to make progress toward employment.
Before you start
- Think about your employment goals and any barriers you may be facing
- Connect with your eligibility worker if you need help arranging child care to participate in required activities
What to expect after referral
- Complete or attend the mandatory Welfare to Work Orientation and Appraisal
- Meet with your case manager to discuss your goals and needs
- Be connected to job search, training, and supportive services
- Receive ongoing guidance and case management
Welfare- to-Work Supportive Services
Supportive services are available to Welfare-to-Work recipients to help remove barriers and enable successful participation in Welfare-to-Work activities. These services are based on individual need and are coordinated by your case manager.
Supportive services may include:
- Child care: For children up to age 12, or up to 21 if the child has a disability
- Transportation: Mileage payment or bus passes
- Clothing: Interview attire or required uniforms
- Tools and equipment: Items required for employment or training
- Education-related costs: Funds advanced to you for books, supplies, and other approved expenses
- Learning disability evaluation: Assessment and accommodations if needed
- Housing Support Program: For participants who meet the HUD definition of homelessness
- Family Stabilization: For participants experiencing family or personal crises
How to access supportive services
Supportive services are not accessed separately. They are provided as part of your Welfare-to-Work participation.
To receive services:
- Apply for and be approved for CalWORKs (visit BenefitsCal.com)
- Be referred to Welfare-to-Work by your eligibility worker
- Complete or attend Orientation and meet with your case manager
- Discuss your needs so appropriate supportive services can be arranged
After services are approved
- Arrange child care as needed
- Request transportation assistance
- Follow through with assigned activities (employment, training, education)
- Inform your case manager of any urgent needs such as housing, safety concerns, or domestic abuse
Additional information
Contact information and location
For questions about CalWORKs Employment Services or Supportive Services
- Call the Employment and Training Branch at 415-473-3350
- County office location: 120 N. Redwood Dr., San Rafael, CA 94903