What is the CARE program?Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education

The Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) is a state-funded program developed to provide educational opportunities for persons receiving TANF benefits. CARE provides support for student retention and academic success, assists students in their academic or vocational objectives, and helps them break away from welfare dependency.

CARE Services and Resources
  • Academic, vocational, and personal advising
  • Financial assistance
  • Assistance with books
  • Transportation
  • Group support
  • Tutoring
  • Peer counseling
  • Referral services
Eligibility Requirements
  1. Be EOPS eligible
  2. Single head of household
  3. Student Parent and/or their child(ren) must be currently receiving TANF from their county
  4. 18 years of age or older
  5. Have at least one child under the age of 18 for whom you receive TANF benefits
  6. Have a vocational or academic objective

What is TANF?

TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The TANF program, which is time-limited, assists families with children when the parents or other responsible relatives cannot provide for the family’s basic needs. Student parents who receive cash aid assistance for either themselves, their children, or both can qualify for services from the CARE program.


How do I apply?

In order to participate in EOPS and CARE, you must complete the EOPS/CARE application and enroll as a full-time student (12 or more units) if you are new to EOPS and CARE.  Your application will be evaluated, and you will be contacted concerning eligibility for the program within 7-10 business days.

*Note* If you are not a full-time student, you may still qualify for EOPS if you are evaluated by the Department of Supportive Programs and Services (DSPS) and receive accommodations for any disabilities. You may contact the DSPS office for more information.

How do I apply to CARE if I’m a current EOPS student?

Contact our EOPS Specialist or Assistant Director about enrolling in the CARE program.