Parents Seeking CHW Certificate Support
Parents planning to earn a Community Health Worker (CHW) Certificate at Minnesota West Community and Technical College have an exciting opportunity—but time is running out to apply for funding and support through the Student Parent Support Initiative (SPSI).
Funded by the Minnesota Department of Higher Education, this initiative is designed to help student parents succeed in completing the CHW Certificate program by providing financial assistance, personalized guidance, and access to valuable resources.
Who Is Eligible?
- Must live in Minnesota.
- Must be pregnant or a parent, as defined by Sec. 135A.1582 MN Statutes.
- Plan to enroll in the CHW Certificate program starting January 2026.
- Commit to finishing the program by July 31, 2026.
What’s Included?
- Full tuition assistance for the 100% online CHW Certificate program.
- $1,000 cash stipend to help with childcare, technology, or other needs ($500 at program start).
- One-on-one support from a CHW Program Coordinator.
- Connections to resources like WIC, SNAP, MNsure, and free clinics.
- Monthly group sessions focused on health and wellness for families.
- Career support, including internship placement, resume help, and employer connections.
- Access to the statewide CHW Registry for networking and professional growth.
Why It Matters
This program is fully online, eliminating transportation and childcare barriers. It’s
tailored for parents and can open doors to rewarding careers in healthcare and public
health.
Applications are due December 22 and will be awarded on a rolling basis. We will close the application process once all spots are filled, which may be before December 22.
Classes begin January 6, 2026, and all coursework—including the 80-hour internship—must be completed by July 31, 2026.