Free courses for SNAP recipients
The SNAP Path to Work Program at Northern Essex Community College (NECC) provides a structured, step-by-step pathway that helps participants build digital and workplace skills and move toward employment.
Who is this program for?
Students must be receiving SNAP (food assistance) benefits. Cash assistance or other benefits such as TAFDC or EAEDC alone do not qualify.
What does the program include?
Students begin with an orientation, where they are introduced to program expectations, available supports, and the importance of digital skills.
From there, participants move through:
- Computer Essentials to establish a foundation in basic technology use
- The IC3 Digital Literacy Series, where students can earn industry-recognized credentials
- Microsoft Office training to build practical, workplace-ready skills
- English for Employment and Customer Service training, depending on their goals and available courses
- Job search preparation and placement support in partnership with Career Services
Most classes last about 12 weeks, and the full pathway takes about a year. Students can earn credentials and build workplace skills to help them pursue good jobs. Those taking English for Employment or contextualized English classes can also strengthen their English skills.
How are classes offered?
Most career skills classes follow a hybrid model, with one day in person and one day remote. ESOL classes are held fully in person. Students must be able to travel to NECC’s Lawrence campus for orientation and in-person classes.
What if I do not have a computer?
You do not need to own a computer to get started. Students who need one can borrow a laptop for the semester to use for coursework and remote classes, then return it to NECC at the end of the semester.
How does the program support employment?
The program connects training to employment through job search preparation and placement support in partnership with Career Services. Students can build computer and workplace skills, earn credentials, and prepare for their next step toward a job or career.
If I qualify, how can I get started?
If you receive SNAP benefits and are interested in building your skills and preparing for work, contact us to learn more and find out about the next orientation session.
Contact Us
For more information, email us at snappathtowork@necc.mass.edu
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Partnerships
MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center
The MassHire Merrimack Valley Career Center is a one-stop career center providing a wide range of services to job seekers and businesses, youth and adults, in the Merrimack Valley.
Neighbors in Need
Neighbors in Need works to reduce hunger and food insecurity and helps people experiencing economic hardship access food and basic necessities with dignity, respect, and privacy.
Uncommon Threads
Uncommon Threads is a Lawrence nonprofit that helps women with limited incomes see and feel their potential through clothing, styling, and workshops that build self-esteem and support personal growth.
Greater Lawrence Family Health Center
Greater Lawrence Family Health Center provides comprehensive healthcare services to individuals and families throughout the Merrimack Valley. It also trains healthcare professionals to serve the region’s culturally diverse communities.
Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance
The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) helps individuals and families meet basic needs through programs including SNAP. Through SNAP Path to Work, DTA connects eligible participants with education, training, and employment opportunities.
Groundwork Lawrence
Groundwork Lawrence is a local nonprofit that supports a healthier community through fresh food access, environmental improvements, education, and workforce development programs.
View video on the NECC YouTube Channel.