HRA's Back to Work program includes Citywide contracts with community based employment and training organizations to provide job readiness training, placement services and vocational training to applicants and recipients of cash assistance. These activities, shaped according to the background and skills of each individual, include short-term job search, vocational training, work experience or basic  education.  Through these services, in a structured and professional environment, HRA builds on each individual's capacity to achieve job placement and ultimately career advancement.

Through the community based service providers, cash assistance recipients (including qualified food stamp recipients) may be eligible for training vouchers to help obtain new employment or further their careers as they work toward self-sufficiency. Courses on a range of topics including the following may qualify: food service, security guard, truck and bus driving, GED preparation, and home health aide, among others.