About CalWORKs

Working to build strong families by helping parents reach their career potential. 

Are you a parent with limited income?

CalWORKs logoYou are eligible to receive CalWORKs services if you currently receive TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and plan to or already attend either Foothill or De Anza College.

If you currently do not receive TANF benefits but think you are eligible, call the nearest social services department for TANF eligibility.

Download our CalWORKs Brochure!

Through our program, students may

  • Earn a college certificate
  • Pursue a new career
  • Gain valuable job skills
  • Find meaningful work

CalWORKS can help with

  • Staff and peer support
  • Fee reimbursement
  • Child care assistance
  • Textbook purchases
  • Fast-track registration
  • Academic, career and personal counseling
  • Internship placement
  • Job search assistance

Benefits for Students

  • Improve and expand employment opportunities after completing training
  • Provides focused learning opportunities in preparation for the workplace.
  • Relate your training programs to your career goals and future employment.
  • Gain valuable work experience and exempt income.
  • All CalWORKs students may participate if they maintain 2.0 GPA and are enrolled in a minimum of 6 units.
  • The CalWORKs JOBS programs meets core requirements and hours of activity established byTANF regulations and Santa Clara County. 

How to Apply

Call to set up an appointment with a CalWorks advisor.

  • De Anza 408.864.8869
  • Foothill 650.949.7465

GOOD NEWS: CalWORKs Students have PRIORITY REGISTRATION PRIVILEGES

To Maintain Your Priority Registration Status

Resources for TANF Eligibility

Call the nearest social services department listed below for TANF eligibility.

24-hour Information Line
1.877.962.3633

Mid County

1867 Senter Road
San Jose CA 95112
408.785.4600

North County

1330 West Middlefield Road
Mountain View CA 94043
650.988.610

South County

379 Tomkins Court
Gilroy CA 95020
408.758.3300

For a list of application assistance centers for Santa Clara County residents, visit

If you live in another county and receive TANF, please contact our office at 408.864.8869.

Benefits for Employers

  • The Occupational Training Institute (OTI) is a resource for employers seeking low-cost, skilled interns. OTI offers this valuable service to both employers and students through the CalWORKs Work Study program.
  • OTI subsidizes wages up to 90% (good only through June 30, 2016).
  • Employers benefit from occupationally focused students who have knowledge and abilities which match their company's job requirements.
  • Employers augment staffing while increasing their recruitment pool of potential employees.
  • Employers are directly involved in the training of their future workforce.
  • Our career training programs include work experience opportunities that lead to self-sufficient employment for eligible students.
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