SNAP CAN Empowering Clients to Success
The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program Career Advancement Network (SNAP CAN) program connects eligible SNAP recipients, like Jessica, with employment readiness services through community-based employment and training programs.
As part of Jessica’s employment goals as a SNAP CAN participant, she is attending Northland Pioneer College, where she is working toward an associate’s degree with a goal of a career in the behavioral health field. But her rural home in Northern Arizona had an interesting challenge. Powered by solar energy, the shorter winter days often left her and her family without internet access–and without the means for her to complete her assignments.
When Jessica and her children, who are also students, have assignments due, they use the internet on campus as long as possible and then relocate to a local fast food restaurant to use the WIFI until it closes at 10:30 PM. Jessica realized this was not a sustainable way to complete their assignments and reached out for help.
She contacted the SNAP CAN program to ask for assistance getting a generator to power her internet, which would allow her to do her school work and submit her assignments from home. The SNAP CAN program was able to assist, and Jessica says it has been a lifesaver. “It has been completely vital for our education,” explained Jessica. “With the generator, we can run the internet as long as we need to ensure our assignments are turned in on time.”
“I, honest to God, cannot say enough about this program. It is amazing how much my family personally has benefited from this.”
Explore how SNAP CAN supports Nutrition Assistance recipients in advancing their careers.