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CHW Certificate Student Parent Support Initiative (SPSI)

Funded by the Student Parent Support Initiative Grant (SPSI) from the Minnesota Department of Higher Education

Funding for Student Parents: Applications are now closed 

Who Can Apply? 

  • You live in Minnesota. 
  • You are pregnant or a parent. (Parent is defined as “parent or legal guardian of or can claim as a dependent a child under the age of 18” by Sec. 135A.1582 MN Statutes) 
  • You plan to enroll in the CHW Certificate program starting in January 2026.
  • You can commit to finishing the program by July 31st 2026. 

What’s Required? 

  • Take the CHW Certificate program online (it’s 100% virtual). 
  • Join monthly group meetings and optional office hours. 
  • Meet with a program coordinator at the start and end of the program. 
  • Share feedback about your experience. 

What You’ll Get 

  • Tuition assistance for the entire cost of the CHW Certificate program paid directly to Minnesota West Community and Technical College for the 100% virtual program.
  • $1,000 cash stipend to help with things like childcare, technology, or other needs. ($500 comes at the start of the program.) 
  • One-on-one support from a CHW Program Coordinator. 
  • Help connecting to resources like WIC, SNAP, MNsure, and free clinics. 
  • Monthly group sessions on health and wellness topics for you and your family. 
  • Job help: support with internship placement, resume support, and connections to employers. 
  • Access to the statewide CHW Registry for networking and resources. 

Why This Matters 

  • The program is fully online—no need to worry about transportation or childcare. 
  • It’s designed for parents, with extra support to help you finish. 
  • It can lead to great jobs in healthcare and public health. 

How to Apply 

  1. Apply for tuition assistance using the application below.
  2. Go to the Minnesota West Community and Technical College Community Health Worker page for more information on the program.
  3. Email Roxanne Hayenga: Roxanne.hayenga@mnwest.edu to register.
  4. Be prepared to start classes January 6th, 2026, and complete all course work, including the 96-hour Internship by July 31, 2026.

If you have questions, email Rachel@mnchwalliance.org.

Applications for the 2026 CHW Certificate SPSI are now CLOSED. Please sign up to get our newsletter for future opportunities!