Child/Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 805-654-3200
CalWORKs Data
The California Work Opportunity & Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program can provide cash assistance to families with children. Certain adults in the program are required to participate in welfare-to-work activities, such as looking for a job, attending job training, working, or furthering their education, which will improve their chances for long-term employment and self-sufficiency. CalWORKs employment specialists help parents develop and achieve career goals, and assist with child care referrals so parents can work. CalWORKs participants are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal and may qualify for CalFresh benefits.
Learn more about the program here: CalWORKs
CalWORKs Applications
In cases of a family emergency, such as no food, a medical emergency or facing homelessness, a household that is qualified for CalWORKs may be eligible to receive a special payment of up to $200 for Immediate Need (learn more here).
The County provides a response to an Immediate Need application within one day. Other applications are processed within 45 days.
The graph to the right shows both the total number of applications received by HSA and how many of those were submitted as Immediate Need.
CalWORKs Participants
CalWORKs participants who are not exempt participate in the Welfare-to-Work program. Participants work with an Employment Services worker to prepare for work and find a job, or a better job. Participants may be able to receive supportive services such as childcare, transportation, and work or training-related expenses.
The purpose of the Welfare-to-Work program is to support participants as they prepare for work and find a job so they can support themselves and their family.
Welfare-to-Work Client Story
Ava is determined to make her own way to a better life for herself and three young kids. At 23 years old, she had not yet finished high school, did not have a car, and was unemployed. It only took two months of being enrolled in Welfare- to-Work for Ava to earn her high school diploma and take the next step toward long-term stability by joining the Job Readiness Program.
With support from CalWORKs, Ava completed an Administrative Assistant Certificate and 90-day paid internship, which helped her get driving lessons, a driver’s license and buy her own car. Prepared to succeed, Ava found stable employment and is now pursuing an Associates of Science Degree. CalWORKs provided the support Ava needed to capitalize on her own motivation and strength to achieve her goals.
Learn more about earning a high school diploma and other adult education programs here: Ventura Adult and Continuing Education
