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. In that role, we conduct statewide outreach for SNAP E&T and either serve those recruited or connect them directly with our partners at the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development SNAP E&T program.
UT Extension agents and Career Navigators work within local communities to reach SNAP participants who are interested in training for long-term employment. With support from Skill Up Tennessee, individuals become prepared and equipped to attain their employment goals.
To participate, we first have to verify eligibility for the program. After this, someone will be in touch about next steps. Please note: We work closely with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development and they may provide case management and SNAP E&T services once we have reached capacity.
Eligible participants are provided a SNAP E&T orientation and assessment, and then work with program staff on action steps to reach their goals. Participants are required to have monthly follow-up appointments to maintain eligibility for the program. Most appointments can take place by phone.
Individuals are eligible to participate in Skill Up Tennessee if they:
- receive SNAP benefits in Tennessee
- do not receive Families First cash assistance
- are willing and able to work upon completion of the program
We help enrolled participants gain the training and skills needed for employment. Potential eligible activities include:
- Adult Education
- Vocational Training
- Job Search Training
- Work Readiness Training
- Job Retention
Training costs are based on need, and could include support such as:
- tuition assistance
- textbooks
- gas cards
- uniforms
- testing fees
Interested in participating? Please read through our participant section of this website for more information on how to get started. You can take the next step to self-sufficiency today! Follow this link to see if you are eligible and pre-register.
Interested in working together? 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!
If you have questions about the program, please email skillup@tennessee.edu or Contact Us.