Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Alabama
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Alabama
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help right now
- If your child doesn’t have a safe place after school or today’s meal: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for afterschool or summer youth programs and food sites in your zip code. 2‑1‑1 is available statewide 24/7. You can also dial the DHR child care licensing intake at 1‑866‑528‑1694 if you need to report an unsafe child care situation. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- If you need summer grocery help for school‑age kids: Alabama’s SUN Bucks Summer EBT issued $120 per eligible child in summer 2025. Questions or address changes go to 1‑800‑443‑3536 or support@alabama-sunbucks.com. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- If you need a free meal site for kids today: Use USDA’s Summer Meals Finder to locate nearby “SUN Meals” sites. No ID, no paperwork for kids 18 and under. (fns.usda.gov)
Quick help box
- Fastest first step: See if you qualify for Alabama’s Child Care Subsidy to cover licensed afterschool or summer day camp costs while you work or attend school. Start at the DHR Subsidy Overview and contact your regional Child Care Management Agency (CMA). (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Need a safe, structured program near you: Ask your school about 21st Century Community Learning Centers (free or low‑cost afterschool and summer learning). If you don’t see one, contact the Alabama 21st CCLC team at 334‑694‑4516 or 21stcclcgrant@alsde.edu. (alabama21cclc.org)
- Looking for low‑cost community options: Check your local Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, and city Parks & Recreation camps. Many accept subsidy and offer scholarships. See fee examples in the tables below. (bgcnal.com, ymcabham.org, huntsvilleal.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Need | Best first action | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| Pay for afterschool or summer care | Apply for Alabama Child Care Subsidy | DHR Child Care Subsidy – Overview |
| Find licensed providers | Search the state directory | DHR Statewide Child Care Directory |
| Free afterschool or summer learning at school | Ask for 21st CCLC | Alabama 21st CCLC information |
| Free meals after school or summer | Use USDA finders | USDA Summer Meals Finder and At‑Risk Afterschool Meals info |
| Region‑specific subsidy help | Call your CMA | CMA phone list below |
What the top search results miss and how this guide fixes it
- Missing current dollar amounts: Many pages don’t show 2025 Alabama subsidy income ranges, weekly parent fees, or real‑world community program prices. You’ll find those numbers here with official sources and direct links.
- No direct phone numbers: We include bold phones for CMAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and city camps so you can call today.
- No Plan B advice: Every section ends with What to do if this doesn’t work so you aren’t stuck.
- No timelines or documents: We give a checklist, timelines you can expect, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Alabama child care subsidy for afterschool and summer care
The action to take now
- Apply through your regional CMA: Call your CMA and ask for an appointment to apply for the Child Care Subsidy to cover licensed afterschool programs or licensed summer day camps while you work or attend approved school/training. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Find a licensed program first or in parallel: Use the DHR directory and look for “School‑Age” and STAR‑rated providers near you. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Who is eligible
- Basic rule: You must live in Alabama, be working and/or in school/training, and meet income rules. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- 2025 income and fee facts: Alabama’s January 2025 fact sheet sets initial eligibility ranges and weekly parent fees per child by percent of Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Families at or below 100% FPL or in DHR priority categories may have the parent fee waived. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Weekly parent fee per child by FPL band (initial eligibility)
| FPL band | Weekly fee |
|---|---|
| 0–100% | $0.00 |
| 101–110% | $18.00 |
| 111–120% | $21.00 |
| 121–130% | $24.00 |
| 131–140% | $27.00 |
| 141–150% | $30.00 |
| 151–160% | $33.00 |
| 161–170% | $36.00 |
| 171–180% | $39.00 |
Source: DHR Child Care Fact Sheet, effective January 1, 2025. Continuing eligibility includes bands up to 200% FPL with weekly fees of 42.00∗∗and∗∗42.00** and **45.00. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Examples of monthly income ranges at initial eligibility (selected family sizes)
- Family of 3 – 0–100% FPL: 0–0–2,152 per month — weekly parent fee $0.00. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Family of 4 – 131–140% FPL: 3,381–3,381–3,640 per month — weekly parent fee $27.00 per child. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Family of 5 – 151–160% FPL: 4,574–4,574–4,877 per month — weekly parent fee $33.00 per child. (dhr.alabama.gov)
How to apply
- Step 1 – Call your CMA: Ask about required documents and current processing times. If English is not your first language, ask for language assistance. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Step 2 – Gather documents: Photo ID, proof of Alabama residence, proof of earned income for the last 30–45 days, school/training schedule (if applicable), child’s birth certificate or proof of age, provider information (if chosen), and any special‑needs documentation. See DHR consumer statement for parent rights and required forms. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Step 3 – Submit application and sign the Parent Agreement: Your CMA will confirm eligibility and authorize care. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Step 4 – Choose a provider: You have “parental choice” among licensed or legally exempt‑but‑authorized programs that meet DHR standards; STAR‑rated programs may receive higher reimbursement. (dhr.alabama.gov, alabamaqualitystars.org)
What the subsidy covers for school‑age care
- Afterschool care: Part‑time rates (≤ 25 hours/week) are capped at half the full‑time weekly rate for your region and provider type. Example for Birmingham region school‑age center base rate 150/week∗∗—part‑timecap∗∗150/week** — part‑time cap **75/week. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Summer day camps: Full‑time weekly caps vary by region and STAR rating. Example base rates for school‑age centers: Birmingham 150/week∗∗,Mobile∗∗150/week**, Mobile **125/week, Huntsville 135/week∗∗,Dothan∗∗135/week**, Dothan **88–$115/week (region‑specific). Higher STAR levels can add tiered increases over base. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Quality bonus and tiered rates: STAR‑rated providers that accept subsidy can earn tiered rates (up to an additional 10% at 5‑STAR) which helps more high‑quality programs serve subsidized families. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Where to get help by region (CMA contacts)
- Birmingham region CMA: 205‑941‑0115 — Counties: Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Walker. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Mobile region CMA: 251‑433‑2878 — Counties: Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, Washington. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Huntsville region CMA: 256‑534‑5110 — Counties: Colbert, Cullman, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, Winston. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Fort Payne region CMA: 256‑534‑5110 — Counties: Cherokee, DeKalb, Etowah, Jackson, Marshall. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Opelika region CMA: 334‑749‑8400 — Counties: Chambers, Lee, Macon, Russell, Tallapoosa. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Montgomery region CMA: 334‑270‑4100 — Counties: Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Chilton, Covington, Dallas, Elmore, Lowndes, Montgomery, Wilcox. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Talladega region CMA: 256‑362‑3852 — Counties: Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Randolph, Talladega. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Dothan region CMA: 334‑712‑7777 — Counties: Barbour, Coffee, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Pike. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Tuscaloosa region CMA: 205‑562‑6022 — Counties: Bibb, Choctaw, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Marion, Perry, Pickens, Sumter, Tuscaloosa. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Required documents checklist
- Photo ID for the parent/caregiver
- Proof of Alabama address
- Proof of income for the last 30–45 days — pay stubs or employer letter
- Work or school/training schedule — class schedule, enrollment proof
- Child’s age verification — birth certificate or official record
- Provider details — name, license or authorization, program hours
- Special‑needs documentation — if applicable
Source: DHR consumer statement and subsidy overview pages. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Timeline and tips
- Ask your CMA for current processing time: It can vary by region and season. Have all documents ready to avoid delays. Use the DHR Family Portal and provider directory to speed selection. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Reality check: Copays are per child per week. If your hours push care over 25 hours/week, you may move from part‑time to full‑time caps. (dhr.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re denied due to income: Ask your CMA to explain your FPL band and parent fee; if your earnings recently dropped, submit updated pay stubs. You can also request a fair hearing per DHR’s Notice of Client’s Rights. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- If no providers have openings: Call your CMA for referral help, expand your search radius in the DHR directory, and ask your school about 21st CCLC seats or district‑run programs. (dhr.alabama.gov, alabama21cclc.org)
Choosing a safe, quality program
- Use Alabama Quality STARS: Look for STAR 2–5 programs for stronger environments and teacher‑child interactions. STAR 1 means the provider meets licensing standards; 2–5 shows higher quality. (alabamaqualitystars.org)
- Check a provider’s license and compliance history: Use the state directory to view last inspection dates and any violations. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Free meals that pair with afterschool and summer programs
- Afterschool meals and snacks: CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals provide free meals/snacks at sites in eligible areas for youth 18 and under. No household application is required at the site. Ask your afterschool provider if they participate. (fns.usda.gov)
- Summer meals: Use the USDA Summer Meals Finder to locate nearby SUN Meals and SUN Meals To‑Go in rural areas. Hours and locations update weekly during summer. (fns.usda.gov)
- Local examples: Huntsville City Schools and the City of Montgomery host Summer Food Service Program sites each June–July. Check local district or city notices for current sites and dates. (huntsvillecityschools.org, mps.k12.al.us)
- When money for groceries runs tight: Feeding Alabama can connect you to local pantries and help with SNAP/WIC applications. Call 334‑209‑5053 or use their finder. (feedingalabama.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you can’t find a meal site: Ask your school district’s Child Nutrition office (ALSDE CNP directory) or your city Parks & Recreation office for pop‑up or church‑hosted sites. (alabamaachieves.org)
School‑funded afterschool and summer learning
- 21st Century Community Learning Centers: Free or low‑cost academic and enrichment programs at high‑need schools across Alabama. Ask your principal or district. State contact for families: 334‑694‑4516, 21stcclcgrant@alsde.edu. (alabama21cclc.org)
- Alabama Summer‑ and After‑School Program (ASAP) grants: ALSDE funds school systems, cities, and nonprofits to run STEM/reading‑focused afterschool and summer learning. For program info, contact ALSDE Office of Extended Learning at 334‑694‑4927 or oxl@alsde.edu. (oxl.alsde.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your school has no program: Ask your principal which community partners they work with (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, churches). Then check your CMA for licensed afterschool slots. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Low‑cost community options with real Alabama fees
Boys & Girls Clubs (multiple regions)
- North Alabama (Huntsville area) – membership and weekly fees: 50∗∗annualregistration;∗∗50** annual registration; **65/week per child for the first two children and $15/week for each additional child after two. Many units accept CMA subsidy. (bgcnal.com)
- Wiregrass (Dothan–Enterprise–Daleville–Slocomb–Rehobeth) – 2025–2026 schedule: Annual membership 25∗∗.Monthly/combinedfeesvarybysite.Example:SlocombClub∗∗25**. Monthly/combined fees vary by site. Example: Slocomb Club **60/month for one child; Dothan Club with school transit $120/month for one child (see site schedule for multi‑child pricing). Call 334‑792‑8787 for registration help. (bgcwiregrass.org)
- River Region (Montgomery area) – annual membership: Local news and org pages report $5/year per child with program support from donations; call your local unit to confirm current hours and offerings. (wsfa.com, mightycause.com)
YMCA afterschool and camps
- YMCA of Greater Birmingham – afterschool: Depending on the branch and district partnership, typical rates include options like 221/month∗∗or∗∗221/month** or **56/week per child, plus one‑time registration fees (25–25–79) and deposit at some sites. Financial assistance may be limited or on waitlist. (ymcabham.org)
- Heart of the Valley YMCA (Huntsville) – afterschool: 75/week∗∗forYMCAmembersand∗∗75/week** for YMCA members and **105/week for non‑members; $30 one‑time registration. Program runs until 6:00 PM with homework help and snacks. (ymcahuntsville.org)
City Parks & Recreation summer day camps
- Huntsville Parks & Recreation full‑day camps (grades 1–6): Operated 7:30 AM–6:00 PM. 2025 cost example 50/week∗∗forfirstchildand∗∗50/week** for first child and **30/week per sibling at some sites; registration opens each April and fills quickly. (huntsvilleal.gov)
- City of Mobile summer camps: 35∗∗registrationand∗∗35** registration and **40/week per camper; aftercare available to 6:30 PM for an extra fee. Call 251‑208‑1600. (mobilecountyal.gov)
Comparison table – typical Alabama costs and contacts
| Program | Area | Typical cost | Contact or link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boys & Girls Clubs – North Alabama | Huntsville & area | 50∗∗annual+∗∗50** annual + **65/week per child (first two), $15/week each add’l | BGC North Alabama membership |
| Boys & Girls Clubs – Wiregrass | Dothan–Enterprise–Daleville–Slocomb–Rehobeth | Annual 25∗∗;examples:Dothanwithtransit∗∗25**; examples: Dothan with transit **120/month for one child; Slocomb $60/month for one child | BGC Wiregrass fees and registration |
| Boys & Girls Clubs – River Region | Montgomery area | $5/year per child (confirm with local unit) | Local coverage and org info |
| YMCA afterschool | Birmingham metro | Examples 56/week∗∗or∗∗56/week** or **221/month; reg fee 25–25–79 | YMCA Greater Birmingham afterschool |
| YMCA afterschool | Huntsville | 75/week∗∗members,∗∗75/week** members, **105/week community; reg $30 | Heart of the Valley YMCA afterschool |
| City summer day camp | Huntsville | 50/week∗∗firstchild,∗∗50/week** first child, **30/week sibling | Huntsville Parks & Recreation summer camps |
| City summer day camp | Mobile | 35∗∗registration+∗∗35** registration + **40/week | City of Mobile camps info |
How much will subsidy pay for school‑age care
Alabama sets weekly reimbursement caps by region, provider type, and age. For school‑age children in centers, selected base rates for full‑time care per week (part‑time cap is half):
| Region | School‑age full‑time base cap | Part‑time cap (≤ 25 hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham area | $150 | $75 |
| Huntsville area | $135 | $67.50 |
| Mobile area | $125 | $62.50 |
| Montgomery area | $128 | $64 |
| Dothan area | 88–88–115 | 44–44–57.50 |
Source: DHR provider rate chart; tiered increases apply for STAR‑rated programs. Always confirm your region’s current cap with your CMA. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Birmingham mom using subsidy at a STAR‑3 center: Family of four at about 150% FPL pays a weekly parent fee of 30∗∗perchild.Herprogram’sschool‑agerateiswithinthe∗∗30** per child. Her program’s school‑age rate is within the **150/week cap, so the subsidy covers the rest. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Wiregrass mom without subsidy yet: She enrolls in Boys & Girls Clubs of the Wiregrass while getting more pay stubs together for subsidy. At the Slocomb unit she pays $60/month for one child and uses club homework help until 6:00 PM. (bgcwiregrass.org)
- Huntsville summer: She books a city day camp for 8 weeks at 50/week∗∗=∗∗50/week** = **400 total for the first child; uses SUN Meals for free lunches during camp weeks. (huntsvilleal.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Free or low‑cost academic programs at or after school
21st Century Community Learning Centers and ASAP
- What they offer: Homework help, tutoring, STEM/reading, arts, physical activity, family engagement — before/after school and summer. Alabama 21st CCLC contact: 334‑694‑4516; ASAP questions via ALSDE Office of Extended Learning: 334‑694‑4927. (alabama21cclc.org, oxl.alsde.edu)
- How to find: Ask your principal or district Federal Programs office. If nothing exists, call ALSDE’s 21st CCLC team to ask about nearby programs and upcoming sites. (alabama21cclc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If the school waitlist is long: Use the DHR directory for licensed afterschool slots, and ask providers if they’re a CACFP At‑Risk site (free supper/snack for kids). (dhr.alabama.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Food support over the summer
- Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): One‑time $120/child grocery benefit for eligible school‑age children. Customer service 1‑800‑443‑3536; SUN Bucks card is separate from SNAP. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- SUN Meals: Free on‑site or to‑go meals at schools, parks, libraries, and community sites. Use the USDA finder each summer. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your child didn’t get SUN Bucks automatically: Apply if still open or ask your district’s child nutrition office about documentation. If funds are closed for the year, use SUN Meals and call 2‑1‑1 for pantry referrals. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Money back at tax time for child care
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Claim up to 35% of up to 3,000∗∗inwork‑relatedchildcareexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** in work‑related child care expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more (non‑refundable, based on income). Keep receipts for afterschool and day camp. See IRS Publication 503 and attach Form 2441 to your return. (irs.gov)
- Note for providers you choose: Alabama’s new Childcare Facility Tax Credit (effective January 1, 2025) encourages licensed providers (especially STAR‑rated) to serve subsidy children — this can increase supply over time. (revenue.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you owe no federal tax: The credit won’t refund money, but you can still reduce what you owe. Ask a VITA tax site for help filing free.
Application checklist you can print
- Your identification: driver’s license or other photo ID
- Proof of residence: utility bill, lease, or official mail
- Proof of income: last 30–45 days of pay stubs, child support records, or award letters
- Work or class schedule: employer letter or school schedule
- Child documents: birth certificate or school record; immunization card if required by provider
- Provider information: name, address, license/authorization number, hours of care
- Special situations: medical letters for disability/special needs, custody or guardianship papers
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing pay stubs: Incomplete income documentation is the #1 delay. Bring full 30–45 days for all adults in the home.
- Choosing an unapproved program: Subsidy only pays licensed or legally authorized programs that meet state standards. Confirm in the DHR directory first.
- Exceeding part‑time hours: If your afterschool hours regularly exceed 25/week, your provider will need full‑time authorization, changing costs.
- Not updating your CMA: Report job changes or new schedules quickly so your authorization stays accurate.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Subsidy denial or closure: Request a fair hearing per your Notice of Client’s Rights; ask your CMA to re‑check your income band and household size. While you appeal, look at Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and city programs in the tables above.
- Transportation hurdles: Ask the program about school pickup options or check for Boys & Girls Clubs with bus routes from schools. If none, consider a provider near your job.
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your CMA for language‑access or privacy accommodations. Many Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs provide inclusive environments and anti‑bullying programming; confirm policies with your local unit. CMA contact options are listed above. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Tell your CMA if you or your child has a disability; subsidy can authorize care through age 18 for children with documented disabilities. Ask providers about ADA accommodations. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Military‑connected families may have school‑age care on installations (School‑Age Centers) or community partnerships; ask your base Family Readiness or your school district for referrals. If not on an installation, standard Alabama subsidy rules apply. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can ask DHR and ALSDE for free communication assistance; many agencies offer materials in multiple languages. See the language bar on DHR and ALSDE pages. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Ask your CMA if your region partners with Tribal programs or if a Tribal CCDF is available to you; you can still use mainstream subsidy with licensed programs. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Look for SUN Meals To‑Go options in rural areas and ask about Summer Meals pick‑ups. Check with county Extension/4‑H for low‑cost camps (many Alabama 4‑H camps run around $175 per session at the state 4‑H Center; check your county’s dates). (fns.usda.gov, aces.edu, bibbvoice.com)
- Single fathers: All programs and subsidies apply equally. Use the same CMA contacts and directories.
- Language access: DHR and ALSDE list multilingual assistance on program pages; ask for interpreter services when you call. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Resources by region
- Birmingham–Jefferson–Shelby: DHR directory for licensed providers; YMCA Greater Birmingham afterschool options (56/week∗∗atsomesitesor∗∗56/week** at some sites or **221/month) and city summer camps sessions. CMA: 205‑941‑0115. (ymcabham.org, dhr.alabama.gov)
- Huntsville–Madison–Limestone: BGC North Alabama (50∗∗registration;∗∗50** registration; **65/week), Heart of the Valley YMCA (75–75–105/week), Huntsville Parks day camps ($50/week). CMA: 256‑534‑5110. (bgcnal.com, ymcahuntsville.org, huntsvilleal.gov, dhr.alabama.gov)
- Montgomery–River Region: Check for 21st CCLC at district schools and Boys & Girls Clubs River Region ($5/year membership reported). CMA: 334‑270‑4100. (wsfa.com, dhr.alabama.gov)
- Mobile–Baldwin: City of Mobile day camps ($40/week) and BGCSA units (confirm current weekly fees at your branch). CMA: 251‑433‑2878. (mobilecountyal.gov)
- Wiregrass–Dothan: BGC Wiregrass site‑based fees, county Extension 4‑H events and camps (~$175 county‑coordinated sessions). CMA: 334‑712‑7777. (bgcwiregrass.org, bibbvoice.com)
Quick “where to start” table
| Program | Who it helps | What you get | How to act fast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama Child Care Subsidy | Working or student parents under income limits | Pays licensed afterschool or summer day camp up to regional caps | Call your CMA from the list above; see DHR Subsidy Overview |
| 21st CCLC | Students at high‑need schools | Free/low‑cost academic/enrichment afterschool and summer | Ask your school; state team 334‑694‑4516 |
| SUN Meals | All kids 18 and under | Free meals at schools/parks/libraries | USDA Summer Meals Finder |
| CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals | Kids in eligible areas | Free supper/snack at registered afterschool sites | Ask the program; see USDA Afterschool Meals |
FAQs for Alabama parents (state‑specific)
- What ages count as “school‑age” for subsidy: Alabama school‑age rates apply typically for 5–12, and up to 18 with documented disability. Your CMA will confirm authorization. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Can I use subsidy for a summer day camp instead of daycare: Yes, if the camp is licensed or legally authorized and registered to accept subsidy. Ask the camp for its DHR status. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- How much will I pay each week: Parent fees are set by your FPL band. Many families at or below 100% FPL have $0 weekly fee. See the table above. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Does subsidy cover transportation from school: Some programs include school pickup; subsidy covers care, not transportation by itself. Ask the provider.
- Do afterschool programs feed kids: Many do through USDA CACFP (free meal/snack). Ask if your site participates. (fns.usda.gov)
- Where do I find district meal contacts: See ALSDE’s Child Nutrition district info page for sponsor contacts. (alabamaachieves.org)
- Is there state pre‑K aftercare: Some First Class Pre‑K classrooms partner with YMCAs or community programs for aftercare; policies vary by site. Check your school and DHR directory. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Do Boys & Girls Clubs accept subsidy: Many do; North Alabama explicitly notes CMA payments are accepted. Confirm with your unit. (bgcnal.com)
- How do I find a STAR‑rated program: Use the DHR directory (many listings show the STAR level) and Alabama Quality STARS site. (alabamaqualitystars.org)
- Can I get help with taxes for child care expenses: Yes — the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit can reduce your tax by up to 35% of 3,000/onechild∗∗or∗∗3,000/one child** or **6,000/two+ children. Save your receipts. (irs.gov)
Application documents and numbers at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| CMA phone numbers | Birmingham 205‑941‑0115; Mobile 251‑433‑2878; Huntsville 256‑534‑5110; Tuscaloosa 205‑562‑6022; Talladega 256‑362‑3852; Dothan 334‑712‑7777; Opelika 334‑749‑8400; Montgomery 334‑270‑4100; Fort Payne (served via Huntsville CMA) 256‑534‑5110. (dhr.alabama.gov) |
| DHR statewide directory | Find licensed providers and view inspection history. (dhr.alabama.gov) |
| SUN Bucks help | 1‑800‑443‑3536 — Alabama SUN Bucks. (dhr.alabama.gov) |
| Meal site finder | USDA Summer Meals Finder. (fns.usda.gov) |
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
What we used: Official Alabama DHR, ALSDE, USDA, IRS, and established nonprofit sources. We link directly to state applications, directories, and phone numbers. See citations throughout.
How we work: We follow our Editorial Standards — official sources only, cross‑checked and updated on a schedule, with fast corrections if you email us.
Verification notes: Key program figures verified for September 2025 with state fact sheets and program pages. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we will review within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program details change: Income limits, fees, and site availability can change. Always confirm with your CMA, provider, school, or agency before you enroll or pay.
- No legal advice: This guide is general information, not legal or case‑specific advice. Agencies make final eligibility decisions.
- Your privacy and safety: Use only official links we provide. For your security, do not share personal details by text or social media DMs with unknown accounts. If a link looks suspicious, navigate directly to the agency’s main site from this page.
Sources
- Alabama DHR Child Care Subsidy – overview, forms, and directory. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- DHR Child Care Fact Sheet with 2025 income bands and weekly fees. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- DHR Provider Rate Chart and part‑time rule; examples by region. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Alabama Quality STARS parent/info pages and tiered rate policy background. (alabamaqualitystars.org, dhr.alabama.gov)
- CMA contact list by region. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program announcement and contact. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- USDA SUN Meals and Summer Meals Finder. (fns.usda.gov)
- USDA CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals info. (fns.usda.gov)
- ALSDE Office of Extended Learning ASAP grants and Alabama 21st CCLC contact. (oxl.alsde.edu, alabama21cclc.org)
- ALSDE Child Nutrition district contact directory. (alabamaachieves.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs – North Alabama membership fees. (bgcnal.com)
- Boys & Girls Clubs – Wiregrass registration and fees. (bgcwiregrass.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs – River Region membership example. (wsfa.com, mightycause.com)
- YMCA Greater Birmingham afterschool rates. (ymcabham.org)
- Heart of the Valley YMCA (Huntsville) afterschool rates. (ymcahuntsville.org)
- Huntsville Parks & Recreation summer camp fees. (huntsvilleal.gov)
- City of Mobile summer camp fees and phone. (mobilecountyal.gov)
- Feeding Alabama pantry and benefits help. (feedingalabama.org)
- IRS Publication 503 – Child and Dependent Care Credit. (irs.gov)
- Alabama Department of Revenue – Childcare Facility Tax Credit (provider incentive). (revenue.alabama.gov)
Reality checks and final tips
- Seats fill early: Aim to register for afterschool by early August and summer camps by April, and ask to be added to waitlists.
- Keep copies: Save applications, receipts, and attendance records. You may need them for subsidy updates or tax credit claims.
- Use every layer: Mix subsidy for tuition, SUN Meals for food, and school‑based programs for tutoring to stretch your budget and support your child’s learning.
Learn more:
- https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Alabama-Child-Care-Subsidy-Program-Consumer-Statement-2024.pdf
- New Summer EBT Benefits Coming to Families with Eligible School Children – Alabama Department of Human Resources
- Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder | Food and Nutrition Service
- Subsidy Overview – Alabama Department of Human Resources
- Home | Alabama 21CCLC
- Membership | BGCNAL
- Afterschool Childcare – The YMCA of Greater Birmingham: For A Better Us
- Mark your calendars! Registration for Huntsville Parks & Recreation summer camps opens April 8 – City of Huntsville
- https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/CMA-List-10202023.pdf
- https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CHILD-CARE-FACT-SHEET-Jan2025.pdf
- https://alabamaqualitystars.org/
- https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Provider-Rates-with-QRIS-Tiers-April-1-2022-b.pdf
- Child care subsidies rates paid by the Department of Human Resources to increase – Alabama Department of Human Resources
- Child Care Services Division – Alabama Department of Human Resources
- Afterschool Meals | Food and Nutrition Service
- Summer Food Service Program 2025 | Huntsville City Schools
- CITY OF MONTGOMERY PARKS AND RECREATION HOSTS ITS ANNUAL ALABAMA SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM | Montgomery Public Schools
- SFSP | Feeding Alabama
- Alabama CNP – District Contact Information – Alabama State Department of Education
- Office of Extended Learning – ASAP Grant
- Boys & Girls Club Wiregrass
- National Boys & Girls Club Week celebrates service to young people
- Boys and Girls Clubs of the River Region | Mightycause
- Extraordinary After School Care Programs at YMCA | 2 Huntsville Locations
- Summer Camps For Children; City Of Mobile
- SUN Meals | Food and Nutrition Service
- Contact Us | Alabama 21CCLC
- Publication 503 (2024), Child and Dependent Care Expenses | Internal Revenue Service
- Childcare Facility Tax Credit – Alabama Department of Revenue
- 4-H Summer Camp Field Guide – Alabama Cooperative Extension System
- 4-H Summer Camp 2025: An Unforgettable Experience for Ages 9–13 | The Bibb Voice
🏛️More Alabama Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alabama
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
