CalWORKs is an acronym for California Work Opportunity and Responsibility for Kids. 
The Welfare to Work Act of 1997, AB 1542, establishes welfare reform in California. The previous program that entitled recipients to aid with few limits is replaced. The new program assures that welfare is a temporary support in times of crisis, rather than a way life; encourages and rewards personal responsibility and accountability by recipients; fosters a "Work First" attitude by strict work requirements; and gives counties the flexibility they need to meet recipients' needs.
CalWORKs funding is provided specifically for curriculum development and redesign, coordination, job development/job placement, work/study, child care services, and expanding child care facilities for CalWORKs recipients.
For more information, please visit the State of California's Department of Public Social Services CalWORKs web site.