What is the SkillUP Program?
SkillUP is a free program that helps Food Stamp (SNAP) recipients get help with skills, training, and employer connections to get a job (or a better job). A SkillUP job coach will work with you to create an individual plan to help you reach your goals and start a new career. The SkillUP program can also help you:
- Pay for short-term training and certifications
- Create or update your resume
- Decide on your goals and a career pathway
- Get real work experience
- Connect you with employers
- Connect with resources such as childcare and housing assistance
- Buy clothing, books, supplies, or tools required for a training or a job
- Pay for minor car repairs to help you get to training or work
The SkillUP Program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). The program is also funded through the Administration for Children and Families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant.
How do I get started?
SkillUp is offered free of cost through a number of agencies across Missouri. Find a provider near you to get started today!
Do SNAP (Food Stamp) recipients have to participate in SkillUP?
Not all SNAP recipients have to participate in SkillUP. However, Able Bodied Adults without Dependents need to complete hours to keep getting Food Stamp benefits. These hours can be met by providing certain information to the Family Support Division or by participating in SkillUP.
What is an Abled Bodied Adult without Dependents?
An Able Bodied Adult without Dependents (ABAWD) is a SNAP (Food Stamp) recipient between the age of 18-49 years who does not have children in their SNAP household under the age of 18 OR are not:
- Unable to work due to an illness, injury or disability
- Pregnant
- A full-time student
- Required to care for an ill or incapacitated household member
- Receiving unemployment (in any state)
- Attending a drug or alcohol Treatment Program
- Homeless
Effective July 1, 2023 work requirements to receive SNAP are reinstated for able bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18 through 49. To receive SNAP benefits for more than three months in a 36 month period, ABAWDs who do not meet an exemption must comply with a training/work requirement. If you are an ABAWD who is already in work or training, you can contact the Family Support Division at 1-855-FSD-INFO (1-855-373-4636) to see if this meets the requirement. Hours can also be met through participation in the SkillUP Program.