About Us – Skill Up Tennessee: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment & Training
  • What is Skill Up Tennessee?

    Skill Up Tennessee is UT Extension’s SNAP Employment and Training program. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) is a partnership between the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and states to provide training and employment services to eligible SNAP participants. The purpose of the program is to assist eligible SNAP participants in gaining skills, training, work or experience that will increase their ability to obtain regular employment. The ultimate goal is self-sufficiency. In Tennessee, the program is administered by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development through a partnership with the Tennessee Department of Human Services. UT Extension provides Skill Up Tennessee as a SNAP E&T partner.

  • How does it work?

    UT Extension agents work within communities to reach SNAP participants who are interested in finding and keeping a job that matches their abilities and gifts. Through classes, training and guidance these individuals, with the help of a personal Career Navigator, will become prepared and skilled to attain their employment goals.

  • Who is eligible?

    There are three criteria for taking part in the program. Participants are eligible for training if they receive SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps), are not receiving TANF (Families First) cash assistance, and are willing and able to work upon finishing the program.

  • How do I get started?

    Participants: Please read through our participant section of this website for more information on how to get started. You can take the first step to self-sufficiency today! Follow this link to see if you are eligible and pre-register.

    Partners: Please read through the partner section of this website for more information on how to invest in the lives of people in your community. The stronger the individuals in a community, the stronger the community. Partner with us today!