Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Alaska

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency help first

• Call 911: for immediate danger.
• Call or text 988: 24/7 suicide and crisis support across Alaska. See the state’s page at 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Alaska Department of Health). (health.alaska.gov)
• Call Alaska 2-1-1: statewide resource line for food, child care, housing, utility help, and more at 2-1-1 or 800-478-2221. Hours 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Mon–Fri. Alaska 2-1-1. (alaska211.org)
• Domestic violence shelter and help: AWAIC 24/7 line 907-272-0100 in Anchorage; shelter at 100 W 13th Ave. Details at AWAIC Emergency Services. (awaic.org)

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Quick help box

• Find a nearby afterschool or summer program fast: Use the statewide map at Alaska Afterschool Network – Find a Program. (akafterschool.org)
• Get affordable care using Alaska child care assistance (CCAP): Contact your regional office (Anchorage area: 907-644-5000; Fairbanks/Interior/Southeast via thread: 800-278-3723). See the state’s CCAP page to apply and find offices at Alaska Child Care Assistance Program. (health.alaska.gov, threadalaska.org)
• Meals when school is out: Find summer meal sites and to‑go options for rural areas via Alaska DEED Summer Food Service Program. Email the state summer meals team at eed.cnp.summer@alaska.gov for site help. (education.alaska.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• In Anchorage/Mat‑Su afterschool: Camp Fire Alaska runs many school‑site programs; monthly rates from $520–$590 (site‑specific). Call 907-279-3551. See Camp Fire Alaska – School Programs. (campfireak.org)
• Anchorage YMCA afterschool: price listed as $575/month; email kids@ymcaalaska.org. See sites and pricing at YMCA of Alaska – After School Enrichment. (ymcaalaska.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs – Southcentral Alaska: statewide clubhouses and licensed care; main line 907-249-5400. Locations and contacts at BGC Southcentral Alaska – Clubhouses. (bgcalaska.org)

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Why this guide is different

• Plain talk, no fluff: You’ll see direct “do this next” steps and real phone numbers.
• Official, current sources: State agencies, school districts, USDA, and established nonprofits only.
• Reality checks: Costs, waitlists, rural shipping delays, and paperwork happen. We flag the pitfalls and give Plan B options.

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Alaska out‑of‑school options at a glance

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Summer groceries and meals

SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) in 2025

What it pays in Alaska: The 2025 Summer EBT benefit levels (if a state participates) are $52/month\ast \ast inUrbanAlaska,\ast \ast$66/month in Rural 1, and $81/month\ast \ast inRural2,paidforthreemonths(total\ast \ast$156, $198\ast \ast ,or\ast \ast$243). These are USDA‑set amounts updated March 10, 2025. See the federal notice at USDA: 2025 Summer EBT Benefit Levels. (fns.usda.gov)

Alaska’s status for 2025: The USDA’s 2025 SUN Bucks map shows SUN Bucks not available in Alaska; the Alaska page returns “SUN Bucks not available where you live.” Check for changes each year on USDA’s site. USDA SUN Bucks – Alaska. (fns.usda.gov)

If SUN Bucks isn’t available: Use summer meal sites and, in rural districts that opt in, Meals to You weekly meal boxes.

• Action first: Use the Summer Meals Finder via Alaska DEED’s Summer Food Service Program page, or email eed.cnp.summer@alaska.gov for site help. Training bulletins confirm Alaska supports non‑congregate service in eligible rural areas. (education.alaska.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• Rural meal boxes (Meals to You): For 2025, Food Bank of Alaska listed an application window of April 1–30, 2025 for eligible districts. Contact your school or see Meals to You – Food Bank of Alaska. (foodbankofalaska.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 or 800‑478‑2221 and ask for “summer meals” and “food pantries” near you, or contact your school’s nutrition office. (alaska211.org)

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After‑school snacks and suppers at program sites

Many Alaska afterschool sites can serve a free snack and sometimes supper through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) – At‑Risk Afterschool. It’s free to enrolled children and teens up to age 18 at qualifying locations. See state details and participant contacts at AK DEED – CACFP. (education.alaska.gov)

• Required documents: usually none for parents if the site is eligible; you just sign the program’s enrollment forms.
• Timeline: meals start right away once the program is open.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the site director whether your location is approved for CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool. If not, ask for the nearest approved site from the district nutrition office or email eed.cnp.summer@alaska.gov for referrals. (content.govdelivery.com)

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School‑based afterschool programs

Anchorage School District 21st CCLC

Anchorage operates 21st CCLC afterschool programs in several elementary schools with tutoring, enrichment, arts, and recreation. See the district page: Anchorage SD – 21st CCLC. (asdk12.org)

• How to enroll: contact your child’s school front office; seats are prioritized for academic need.
• Cost: typically free to families for 21st CCLC.
• Contact: start with your school office; district info at the page above.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school doesn’t have 21st CCLC, search the statewide map at Alaska Afterschool Network – Find a Program or consider Camp Fire/ YMCA options (below). (akafterschool.org)

Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) – After School Program (ASP)

FNSBSD runs multiple 21st CCLC sites with set program hours and academic/enrichment blocks.

• Coordinator directory and sites: FNSBSD – Afterschool Programs. Main line 907-452-2000 x11271. (k12northstar.org)
• Example site schedule: Weller Elementary runs Mon–Thu with snack, academics, and enrichment; contact 907-457-1629 x45037. Weller ASP. (wlr.k12northstar.org)
• Summer EAST Academy: month‑long STEM summer program for selected students. EAST Summer Programs (FNSBSD). (k12northstar.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for district‑approved community partners (Boys & Girls Clubs, Parks & Rec, faith‑based centers) and check the statewide map. (akafterschool.org)

Statewide 21st CCLC information

The Alaska Department of Education & Early Development (DEED) manages the statewide grant program and posts grantees and updates. See AK DEED – 21st CCLC. Program manager phone 907-465-8716; DEED main 907-465-2800. (education.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal if your school plans to apply for 21st CCLC; community partners can join too. If not, continue with the nonprofit options below. (education.alaska.gov)

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Nonprofit and community afterschool

Camp Fire Alaska (Anchorage/Eagle River)

• Where: programs at many ASD and ER schools.
• Hours: most sites 2:30–6:00 p.m. (site variations listed). (campfireak.org)
• Rates: $590/month\ast \ast formostsites;\ast \ast$520–$535 at Aquarian/Chugach Optional as of Fall 2025–26 registration; scholarships available; accepts CCAP. Call 907-279-3551 or see site list and numbers. Camp Fire – Locations and Rates. (campfireak.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Camp Fire about scholarships and waitlists; if full, ask for their nearest alternative site. Also call 2‑1‑1 for other licensed afterschool providers in your ZIP code. (alaska211.org)

YMCA of Alaska (Anchorage)

• Rates: website lists afterschool at $575/month; email kids@ymcaalaska.org for current sites and openings. YMCA – After School Enrichment. (ymcaalaska.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about YMCA financial assistance; if you use CCAP, confirm the Y accepts it at your site. (ymcaalaska.org)

Boys & Girls Clubs – Southcentral Alaska (statewide network)

• Clubhouses statewide: Anchorage, Mat‑Su, Fairbanks, Southeast, Arctic/Western communities. Contacts and addresses are listed by region. BGC Southcentral AK – Clubhouses. Main office 907-249-5400. (bgcalaska.org)
• Licensed school‑age summer example rate: $884/month at Turnagain Elementary CDC. BGC – Child Development Center rates. (bgcalaska.org)
• Note: Fees and hours vary by site; membership and program fees are set in the parent portal. If you’re in Anchorage’s Mountain View, the municipality announced in Feb 2025 it would assume management of that city‑owned community center after fee concerns; check with Anchorage Parks & Rec for current operations. (adn.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your local Club is full, ask staff to refer you to the nearest clubhouse or partner site; also search the Alaska Afterschool Network map for other options. (akafterschool.org)

Alaska Afterschool Network

• Why use it: It’s the statewide hub with a searchable map of afterschool and summer programs.
• Contact: 907-248-7371 (office), address 6591 A Street, Suite 110, Anchorage. Alaska Afterschool Network. (akafterschool.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email the Network for help locating rural or tribal programs not listed yet; programs can submit updates to the map. (akafterschool.org)

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Paying for school‑age care: Alaska Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Alaska’s CCAP (Parents Achieving Self‑Sufficiency – PASS I/II/III) can cover a large share of your afterschool or summer day‑camp cost at licensed programs, with you paying a monthly co‑pay. See the state’s overview and application at Alaska Child Care Assistance Program. (health.alaska.gov)

• Who qualifies: Working, in school, or in job training. PASS I is for families on Alaska Temporary Assistance; PASS II helps families recently off TANF; PASS III is for other working families meeting income rules. (health.alaska.gov)
• Income rules: State regulation caps initial eligibility at up to 85% of Alaska State Median Income (SMI) (adjusted for family size and with a PFD adjustment per regulation). The exact co‑pay and eligibility are set by the state’s Family Income & Contribution Schedule. If the online calculator is down, call your regional CCAP office. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.justia.com, health.alaska.gov)
• What CCAP pays: Up to the regional maximum reimbursement rates; your provider can’t bill the state above these caps. A few examples for school‑age children at licensed centers (full‑time month):
  — Municipality of Anchorage: $884/month\ast \ast —FairbanksNorthStarBorough:\ast \ast$750/month
  — Matanuska‑Susitna Borough: $702/month
  See the full rate schedule PDF at CCAP Rate Schedule. (health.alaska.gov)
• How to apply fast: Complete form CC08 and submit to your regional office. Anchorage/Mat‑Su handled by Alaska Family Services: 907-644-5000; Northern/SE handled by thread: 800-278-3723. All contacts are posted on the state CCAP page. (health.alaska.gov, threadalaska.org)
• Documents you’ll need: photo ID, proof of Alaska residency, pay stubs or income proof, school/training verification if applicable, child’s birth certificate, provider info/license number, and your schedule of care needs. If applicable, TANF case info (PASS I).

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the office for a temporary authorization while your application is processed; if denied, request the CCAP hearing form (CC46) and ask about Alaska Inclusive Child Care Program for special needs. (health.alaska.gov)

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Program costs snapshot

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Summer food and grocery help at a glance

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How to find a program in your town today

• Use the statewide map: Alaska Afterschool Network – Find a Program lists afterschool and summer programs; click icons for contact info and months of operation. (akafterschool.org)
• Call thread (state Child Care Resource & Referral): get licensed school‑age program referrals tailored to your schedule and budget at 800-278-3723; locations and hours posted at thread Alaska – Locations. (threadalaska.org)
• Ask your school office: for 21st CCLC, tutoring clubs, and bus availability (some districts provide limited activity busing).

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “licensed school‑age care,” “afterschool,” and “youth programs” in your ZIP; ask to screen for CCAP eligibility and meal sites. (alaska211.org)

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Region‑by‑region quick contacts

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Real‑world timeline tips

• August–September: schools announce afterschool sign‑ups; 21st CCLC programs prioritize academic need—hand in forms the same day you get them. (wlr.k12northstar.org)
• January–March: summer camp registrations open (Camp Fire, Parks & Rec, YMCA). Have CCAP ready so your spot is secured while assistance is pending. (campfireak.org)
• March–May: districts and sponsors post summer meal sites; Meals to You rural sign‑ups may open in April. (foodbankofalaska.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for a final CCAP decision before holding a spot: ask providers if they will accept pending CCAP and hold your seat with a small deposit.
• Assuming SUN Bucks is automatic in Alaska: for 2025 it’s not operating in Alaska; go straight to summer meals and Meals to You where available. (fns.usda.gov)
• Skipping paperwork: incomplete CCAP applications or missing pay stubs delay approvals.
• Not asking about CACFP meals at your site: you might be paying for snacks your child can get free. (education.alaska.gov)
• Missing scholarship windows: AHFC youth summer scholarships of up to $500 close once funds run out. Mark your calendar early. (ahfc.us)

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Application checklist

• Photo ID and Alaska address proof: lease, utility, or mail.
• Income proof: last 30 days of pay stubs or self‑employment worksheet (CC39), benefits letters. (health.alaska.gov)
• Work or school schedule: class schedule or employer statement (CC36). (health.alaska.gov)
• Child documents: birth certificate, immunization (as required by provider), school info.
• Provider choice: name, license number, and schedule (days/hours needed).
• Special needs plan if applicable: ask about Alaska Inclusive Child Care (Alaska IN!) supports. (health.alaska.gov)

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Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask providers about anti‑bullying policies and inclusive bathrooms; both Camp Fire and YMCA publish youth protection policies and offer financial aid. For crisis support or discrimination issues, Alaska 2‑1‑1 can connect you to local advocacy resources. Phone: 2‑1‑1. (alaska211.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: tell CCAP you need an inclusive provider; ask thread for an enhanced referral and about Alaska IN! supplemental subsidy. Contact: thread 800-278-3723. (health.alaska.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: check if your child’s site has priority for military families or if your school can arrange activity bus routes; call 2‑1‑1 for veteran family supports tied to child care and camps. (alaska211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: language access is available via 2‑1‑1 and many agencies; DEED and nutrition programs can arrange interpretation for meal sites. Phone: 2‑1‑1. (alaska211.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Cook Inlet Tribal Council (Anchorage) offers afterschool tutoring, STEM “Denełchin Lab,” Johnson‑O’Malley aid, and school‑break camps. Phone: 907-793-3265; CITC Youth Education. (citci.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: ask the district about 21st CCLC, check BGC village clubhouses, and watch for Meals to You shipping timelines. BGC Locations and Meals to You. (bgcalaska.org, foodbankofalaska.org)
• Single fathers: every resource in this guide applies equally; child care, meals, and scholarships are based on child need and family income, not gender.
• Language access: Alaska 2‑1‑1 provides interpretation; AWAIC and 988 also support multiple languages. Phones: 2‑1‑1, 907-272-0100, 988. (alaska211.org, awaic.org)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

• Find programs now: AK Afterschool Network Map. (akafterschool.org)
• Apply for child care help: Alaska CCAP. Anchorage 907-644-5000; thread 800-278-3723. (health.alaska.gov)
• Afterschool site meals: ask your provider about CACFP At‑Risk; state info at AK DEED CACFP. (education.alaska.gov)
• Summer meals: AK DEED Summer Food Program; email eed.cnp.summer@alaska.gov. (education.alaska.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• Rural summer boxes: Meals to You – Food Bank of Alaska. (foodbankofalaska.org)
• Camp Fire afterschool (Anchorage/Eagle River): 907-279-3551; locations and rates. (campfireak.org)
• YMCA afterschool (Anchorage): $575/month; info at YMCA Alaska. (ymcaalaska.org)
• BGC statewide: main 907-249-5400; clubhouse contacts. (bgcalaska.org)

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Tables for fast comparisons

Where to ask first by need

Selected CCAP maximum monthly reimbursements for school‑age at licensed centers

Summer benefits overview for 2025

Example provider pricing (family pays before aid)

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What to bring to your first meeting with a provider

• Proof of identity and Alaska address: driver’s license or ID, lease, or recent bill.
• Your schedule: pickup times, early release days, and school calendars.
• Medical and emergency contacts: doctor, allergies, and anyone authorized to pick up, with phone numbers in bold on your forms.
• Payment plan: ask about CCAP, scholarships, and whether the program can hold your spot while aid is pending.

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Ten Alaska‑specific FAQs

• Is SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) available in Alaska in 2025: No. USDA’s 2025 map shows SUN Bucks “not available” in Alaska; check each year for changes at USDA’s page. (fns.usda.gov)
• How much would SUN Bucks pay if Alaska participates in a future summer: For 2025 benefit levels, Urban $52/month\ast \ast ,Rural1\ast \ast$66, Rural 2 $81\ast \ast (threemonthstotal\ast \ast$156/$198/$243). (fns.usda.gov)
• Where do I find a summer meal site in a small town: Start at the Alaska DEED Summer Food page and ask about non‑congregate (to‑go) options if you’re rural. Email: eed.cnp.summer@alaska.gov. (education.alaska.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• How fast can CCAP approve my school‑age care: Timelines vary with complete applications. Submit CC08 plus proof of income and your provider info. Ask the office if a temporary authorization is possible while processing. Contacts are on the CCAP page. (health.alaska.gov)
• What are the income limits for CCAP: Alaska sets eligibility up to 85% of State Median Income (adjusted by family size and state rules). Co‑pays use the state Family Income & Contribution Schedule; call your regional office for your exact co‑pay. (law.cornell.edu)
• How much can CCAP pay toward afterschool in Anchorage: Up to $884/month for a licensed center (full‑time month). Other regions differ; see the rate schedule. (health.alaska.gov)
• Do afterschool programs provide food: Many do through CACFP At‑Risk (free snacks or suppers). Ask your site director. (education.alaska.gov)
• Any help for summer camp fees: AHFC’s Youth Summer Camp & Activity Scholarship offers up to $500 per child for eligible AHFC‑assisted families; funds close when money runs out. (ahfc.us)
• Anchorage providers with published prices: Camp Fire sites from $520–$590/month; YMCA $575/month\ast \ast ;BGClicensedsummerexample\ast \ast$884/month. Always verify current rates. (campfireak.org, ymcaalaska.org, bgcalaska.org)
• Who helps me compare programs in my area: thread (CCR&R) at 800-278-3723 will pull licensed school‑age options that match your work hours and budget. (threadalaska.org)

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What to do if you hit barriers

• Waitlists everywhere: Put your name on multiple lists; ask for part‑time or drop‑in slots; call thread to find licensed family child care homes that take school‑agers.
• Transportation gaps: Ask your school about activity buses; some districts and providers coordinate bus pickups (varies by site).
• Cost too high even with CCAP: Request your provider’s scholarship, and ask if they can charge “state rate” only. Check Parks & Rec youth scholarships (example in Juneau: up to $300 per child for camps). (juneau.org)
• Food insecurity: Use 2‑1‑1, DEED summer meals, and school pantry partners; in rural areas, ask the district if it participates in Meals to You. (education.alaska.gov, alaska211.org)

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Real examples

• Anchorage single mom using CCAP + Camp Fire: Applied to CCAP first week of August with two weeks of pay stubs, secured a seat at Camp Fire with aid pending, and reduced out‑of‑pocket to her co‑pay once approved. Camp Fire accepted CCAP and had later pickup at 6:00 p.m. (campfireak.org)
• Interior mom at a 21st CCLC site: Enrolled via school office; child stays four days a week with snack, homework help, and enrichment; no fee charged. Transportation arranged with parent pickup at 5:30 p.m. For schedules, see FNSBSD site details. (wlr.k12northstar.org)
• Rural mom during summer: District joined Meals to You; applied in April and received weekly boxes by mail through summer break. (foodbankofalaska.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers specializing in government assistance programs.

Methodology: We used only official sources and established nonprofits, verified links at publication, and cross‑checked policies across state and federal sites. See our Editorial Standards for how we source, review, and update guides.

Scope: Alaska Department of Education & Early Development, Alaska Department of Health (CCAP), USDA Food and Nutrition Service, Alaska Afterschool Network, and established statewide providers.

Maintenance: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Corrections: If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Important: Programs, rates, eligibility rules, deadlines, and participation (like SUN Bucks) can change. Always confirm with the agency or provider before you decide.

Security reminders:

• Never share full SSNs or bank details by email or text.
• Use official sites (look for “.gov” or known nonprofits) and verified phone numbers.
• If a link looks broken or unfamiliar, navigate from the agency’s main homepage or call the posted main number.

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Sources

• AK DEED – 21st CCLC state page and contacts. (education.alaska.gov)
• Anchorage School District – 21st CCLC overview. (asdk12.org)
• FNSBSD – Afterschool Programs (sites, contacts, evaluations). (k12northstar.org)
• AK DEED – CACFP (At‑Risk Afterschool). (education.alaska.gov)
• USDA FNS – 2025 Summer EBT benefit levels. (fns.usda.gov)
• USDA SUN Bucks page (Alaska not available view). (fns.usda.gov)
• AK DEED – Summer Food Service Program (SUN Meals) and SFSP 2025 bulletins (non‑congregate training). (education.alaska.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
• Alaska CCAP – program, offices, and forms. (health.alaska.gov)
• Alaska CCAP Rate Schedule PDF (current as posted). (health.alaska.gov)
• thread Alaska – locations and referral services. (threadalaska.org)
• Camp Fire Alaska – programs, locations, and rates, Fall 2025–26 rates update. (campfireak.org)
• YMCA of Alaska – After School Enrichment price. (ymcaalaska.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs – Southcentral Alaska locations and CDC rates, (CDC page). (bgcalaska.org)
• AHFC Youth Summer Camp & Activity Scholarship – up to $500 and 2025 blog announcement. (ahfc.us)
• Alaska Afterschool Network – map and contact, About/Contact. (akafterschool.org)
• CITC Youth Education – Denełchin Lab, afterschool, camps. (citci.org)
• Alaska 2‑1‑1 and hours. (alaska211.org)
• AWAIC 24/7 crisis line. (awaic.org)

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What’s next: If you tell me your child’s school and town, I can pull the closest afterschool options, confirm meal availability, and draft a one‑page plan with the exact numbers to apply for CCAP and any scholarships in your area.

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🏛️More Alaska Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alaska

• 📋 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