What About…
Work and Training FAQ
Starting a new job or training program can make a big impact on your family’s life, so having concerns about making the change is understandable. These are some common questions brought up by Family Rewards participants.
What will happen to my benefits if I start working?
Working doesn’t always mean you lose your benefits. Some public assistance programs allow you to earn a certain amount while still maintaining benefits. Remember, Opportunity NYC Rewards should not affect TANF, Food Stamps, Medicaid, and some other government benefits. Contact your community organization and they can direct you to resources where you can get answers.
Isn’t the economy bad right now? Are there even jobs out there?
Certain jobs are always needed—even in a recession. In-demand industries include education, hospitality, information technology, transportation, and healthcare. Visit the work and training Reward page for more information on finding training and education.
What if I don’t have any skills or training?
Now is a great time to take a training course or further your education. Opportunity NYC offers up to a $600 Reward when you complete a training or education course while working part time, up to $3,000 during the program. And there are hundreds of free or subsidized training courses offered in New York City. Visit the work and training Reward page for more information on finding training and education.
How can I pay for training or education?
If you’re interested in a particular training or education program, but aren’t sure if you can afford it, visit a Workforce 1 Career Center. Career counselors can help you look for grants, vouchers, or tuition reimbursement programs offered by the City and State of New York. To find a course, visit the work and training Reward page for Opportunity NYC-approved training and education providers.
What about childcare?
You and your family might qualify for free or subsidized childcare in New York City! Visit the links below to learn more.
If you have a school-age child, consider registering him or her for an afterschool program. Many afterschool programs are free and include activities such as homework help, art classes, field trips, and sports. They’re often open during holidays too. Learn more about afterschool programs at the education Rewards page here.
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Helpful Work and Training Links
Subsidized Childcare Options
NYC Administration for Children’s Services>>
Your child might be eligible for free childcare or a Head Start program! Check out the NYC Administration for Children’s Services’ site to see if you qualify. You can use a searchable map to find high-quality childcare providers near you.
Access NYC>>
Enter your family’s information—such as number of children, income, living arrangements—to learn if you qualify for government services including subsidized childcare.
Choosing the Right Childcare
Day Care Centers in New York City>>
Here you can search for a day care center that has an official Department of Health permit. You can also find out if a center you’re interested in has any health code violations.
Smart Choices for Childcare>>
How can you tell if a day care center is safe enough for your child? What are all the different types of childcare? Find everything you need to know about choosing high-quality childcare in New York City. Site sponsored by Earned Benefits.
Childcare Aware>>
Find advice on how to budget for childcare, how to locate high-quality day care, and how to prepare for disasters and emergencies. You can also access brochures and posters on literacy and early education.
More Work Support
Earn Benefits Community Resources>>
Balancing family life and a job isn’t always easy, but there are lots of resources out there to help you succeed. Find everything from free-clothing programs to counselors who can help you fix your credit.
