Arizona has among the highest number of nonprofit organizations per capita in the entire nation yet at least 500,000 mothers and their families are living on the margins. Many women are interested in going back to school to get into a career track that provides a worthy wage. However, low wages, rising tuition costs, and child care challenges often provide a barrier to success.

To address these challenges, WFSA created a pilot program of wraparound support for single mothers that helps them get certifications for careers with worthy wages, to break the cycle of poverty for women and their families. In addition to assisting in navigating the enrollment process, the program provides for up to 100% of tuition and childcare expenses, as well as a stipend for living expenses throughout the duration of the program.

In 2020, WFSA developed the Pathways for Single Moms Program. When Pathways was selected to be a part of the Women’s Economic Mobility Hub project with the Women’s Funding Network, WFSA was able to expand its holistic support program to serve a greater number of women.