I've been searching for a free or cheap welding training and/or certification program. Or maybe a work trade situation. Just anyway to practice welding anywhere in the U.S. on the cheaps or the free. So far, all I've encountered is the weld to work program through the Steel Yard in Providence, RI and the pre-work welding training that some places do.

Any help would be well appreciated.

You generally get what you pay for. There are several skill sharing co ops in many areas. Many companies will work with you to get you the certs you need for their projects. Community Colleges and Adult Education programs can help you develop your skills as well. Certs can take many forms evidently with actual AWS certs through approved facilities usually costing several hundred dollars to attempt the test.