.
top of page

Navigating CalWORKs in Stanislaus County: Your Guide to Financial Support and Self-Sufficiency

Life in Stanislaus County can be challenging, especially for families struggling to make ends meet. If you're a parent facing financial hardship, you're not alone. CalWORKs, a vital program designed to provide cash assistance and support services, could be the lifeline you need to get back on your feet. Let's explore how this program can help you and your family thrive in our community.


Una versión en español de este artículo está disponible al final para lectores que no hablan inglés.


Understanding CalWORKs: Support for Stanislaus Families

CalWORKsshort for California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids, is a welfare program that provides cash aid and services to eligible families in need. In Stanislaus County, this program is administered by the Community Services Agency (CSA) and works in collaboration with various local organizations to support families on their path to self-sufficiency.


Key Services Offered by CalWORKs:

  • Cash assistance for housing, food, and other necessities

  • Employment services and job training

  • Child care assistance

  • Transportation support

  • Educational support

  • Mental health and substance abuse services



How to Access CalWORKs in Stanislaus County

To apply for CalWORKs in Stanislaus County, follow these steps:

  1. Apply online: Visit BenefitsCal.com to submit your application.

  2. Contact the CSA: Call the Customer Service Center at 1-877-652-0734 for assistance.

  3. Schedule an interview: After submitting your application, a county representative will contact you to set up an eligibility interview.

  4. Attend the interview: During this meeting, you'll discuss your situation and complete additional forms.

  5. Submit required documents: Provide identification, birth certificates, and other necessary paperwork.


Eligibility Requirements

 To qualify for CalWORKs in Stanislaus County, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or meet residency requirements

  • Live in California

  • Have at least one child under 18 (or 19 if expected to graduate before their 19th birthday)

  • Meet income and resource limits

  • Cooperate with child support requirements

  • Participate in work-related activities (unless exempt)

Local Resources and Support

1. Stanislaus County Community Services Agency (CSA)

  • CalWORKs application

  • Case management

  • Support services

Contact: (209) 558-2500

Address: 251 Hackett Rd., Modesto, CA  95358


2. Modesto Junior College CalWORKs Program

  • Educational support

  • Counseling

  • Work-study opportunities for CalWORKs participants

Contact: (209) 575-6662

Address: 435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350


3. StanWORKs Child Care Program

  • Child care assistance for CalWORKs recipients

Contact: (209) 558-2500

Address: 251 E Hackett Rd, Modesto, CA 95358 (2nd floor, Family Services Entrance)


4. Stanislaus County Department of Child Support Services

  • Establishment and enforcement of child support orders

Contact: (866) 901-3212

Address: 251 E. Hackett Road, Modesto, CA 95358


5. Center for Human Services

  • Mental health counseling

  • Substance abuse treatment

  • Family support services

Contact: (209) 526-1476.

Address: 2000 W. Briggsmore Ave., Suite I, Modesto, CA 95350


6. Stanislaus County Workforce Development

  • Job search assistance

  • Career counseling

  • Training programs

Contact: (209) 558-2100.

Address: 629 12th Street, Modesto, CA 95354


Making a Difference in Our Community

The impact of CalWORKs in Stanislaus County is significant. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, without CalWORKs, an estimated 439,200 more Californians would be living in poverty, including 214,200 children. This program is a crucial part of our community's safety net, helping families overcome challenges and work towards a brighter future.


Consider the story of , a single mother in Modesto. After losing her job due to the pandemic, she turned to CalWORKs for support. Through the program, she received cash assistance to cover her rent and basic needs, enrolled in job training courses, and secured affordable child care. Today, she's employed full-time and on the path to financial independence. "CalWORKs gave me hope when I needed it most," she shares. "It's not just about the money – it's about the support and opportunities to build a better life for my family."


Take the First Step Towards Stability

Are you ready to explore how CalWORKs can support you and your family? Don't wait – take action today to secure a brighter tomorrow. Apply online at BenefitsCal.com or call the Stanislaus County CSA Customer Service Center at 1-877-652-0734 to get started. Remember, you're not alone in this journey – our community is here to support you every step of the way.


Common Questions About CalWORKs

Q: How long can I receive CalWORKs benefits?

A: Adults are generally limited to 48 months of cash aid in their lifetime, but children may continue to receive assistance.


Q: Will I lose my benefits if I start working?

A: Not necessarily. CalWORKs has work incentives that allow you to keep some of your earnings while still receiving benefits.


Q: Can I get CalWORKs if I'm pregnant?

A: Yes, you may be eligible for CalWORKs in the last trimester of pregnancy if you have no other children.


Q: How does CalWORKs help with education and training?

A: CalWORKs can provide support for education and training programs that lead to employment, including help with tuition, books, and supplies.


We'd love to hear about your experience! Share your story in our Community Connections section of the 211 Stanislaus Info Hub and help others understand the impact of this vital service.


Resumen en Español

CalWORKs es un programa de asistencia pública que ofrece ayuda financiera y servicios a familias elegibles en el Condado de Stanislaus. Para aplicar, visite BenefitsCal.com o llame al 1-877-652-0734. El programa proporciona asistencia en efectivo, servicios de empleo, cuidado infantil y más. Los requisitos incluyen ser ciudadano o residente legal, vivir en California y tener hijos menores de 18 años. CalWORKs puede ser un recurso valioso para familias que enfrentan dificultades financieras, ayudándoles a lograr la autosuficiencia.


Spotlight Summary

CalWORKs in Stanislaus County offers crucial support for families facing financial hardship. The program provides cash assistance, employment services, child care, and more. Eligible families can apply online or by phone. CalWORKs significantly reduces poverty rates, especially among children. Local resources include the Community Services Agency, Modesto Junior College CalWORKs Program, and StanWORKs Child Care Program. The program's impact extends beyond financial aid, offering pathways to self-sufficiency and a brighter future for Stanislaus County families.


This Service Spotlight is brought to you by our generous sponsor, Help Is Hope Foundation.


#211Stanislaus.org  #211StanislausInfoHub  #211InfoHub  #CalWORKsStanislaus


Related Posts

bottom of page