Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Arizona
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Arizona
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Emergency child care or you can’t leave work right now: Call 2‑1‑1 or 877‑211‑8661 for real‑time referrals to afterschool and summer programs, transportation help, and emergency shelter. (211arizona.org)
- Find open afterschool and summer programs near you fast: Call Arizona Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) at 800‑308‑9000 or search their statewide directory. They’ll filter by hours, location, DES eligibility, language, and age. (azccrr.com)
- Need help paying for care: Apply for DES Child Care Assistance online via the A‑to‑Z portal. Note there’s a waiting list for most families. Processing can take up to 30 days. DES Child Care main line: 833‑947‑6396; general DES Child Care: 602‑542‑4248. (des.az.gov)
- Free afterschool supper/snack at many sites: Ask your school if it participates in the At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) or NSLP Afterschool Snack. These offer free meals or snacks to all kids at eligible sites. (azed.gov)
- Summer groceries for school‑age kids (SUN Bucks): One‑time $120 per eligible child each summer. 2025 applications closed on August 5, 2025; appeals accepted until November 3, 2025. Hotline: 833‑648‑4406. EBT card help: 888‑997‑9333. Benefits expire 122 days after they’re added to the card. (azed.gov)
- Domestic violence safety while arranging care: Arizona Helpline 602‑279‑2980 or 800‑782‑6400; 24/7 National DV Hotline 800‑799‑7233. (arizonasurvivors.org, des.az.gov)
First, if it’s urgent
- Safety first: If you’re in danger, call 911. For confidential support and safety planning, call 602‑279‑2980 or 800‑782‑6400 (Arizona Sexual & Domestic Violence Helpline). They can also help you coordinate pickups, address changes, and safe afterschool hand‑offs. (arizonasurvivors.org)
- Food today: Use the USDA’s Summer Meals Site Finder to locate free kids’ meals. In late summer and fall, some sites wind down; always check hours before you go. Arizona Hunger Hotline: 602‑528‑3434 or 800‑445‑1914. (fns.usda.gov, azhealthzone.org)
- Same‑week afterschool supervision: Call 800‑308‑9000 (CCR&R). Ask specifically for “today or this week openings,” DES‑accepting sites, and programs open until at least 6:00 p.m. (azccrr.com)
How to pay for afterschool or summer care (start here)
DES Child Care Assistance (state subsidy)
Most important action: Apply now (even if you think you’re slightly over income). If you’re approved, DES pays the provider directly and you pay a family co‑pay. There is a waiting list for most families. (des.az.gov)
- Who it helps: Arizona parents with children under 13 who are working, in school/training, or in specified circumstances (teen parents in high school/GED/ESOL; families in shelters; parents unable/unavailable due to health or treatment). Initial financial eligibility is at or below 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL); DCS/TANF referrals are not income‑tested. (des.az.gov)
- Reality check: As of September 5, 2025, DES reports 4,411 families and 7,376 children on the waiting list. DES will release some families as funding allows, prioritizing the lowest‑income first (100% FPL, then upward in 10% bands through 165% FPL). Applications can take up to 30 days to process. (des.az.gov)
- Where to apply: Apply or renew online through Arizona’s A‑to‑Z portal; you can also submit a paper application to your local DES Child Care office. DES Child Care: 833‑947‑6396; DES general child care line: 602‑542‑4248. (des.az.gov)
- Find a provider: You may pick a licensed center, a licensed family home, or a relative caretaker contracted with DES. Before your child starts, DES must authorize care for that provider. For free help choosing, call CCR&R at 800‑308‑9000. (des.az.gov)
- What you’ll pay: DES assigns a monthly family co‑pay based on income and family size. The co‑pay won’t increase during your 12‑month eligibility period, even if your income rises. Exact co‑pays come from DES’s fee schedule and your assigned “fee level.” (azchildcarepolicy.azdes.gov)
- Income limits you can use right now: DES uses 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines. Here’s what 165% FPL (monthly gross) looks like for common family sizes:
| Family size | 165% FPL monthly (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $2,908 |
| 3 | $3,664 |
| 4 | $4,421 |
| 5 | $5,177 |
| 6 | $5,933 |
| 7 | $6,689 |
| 8 | $7,446 |
These amounts are calculated from the official 2025 guidelines (48 states/DC). DES determines eligibility using monthly gross income. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Documents to have ready:
- Proof of identity for the applicant
- Proof of citizenship/qualified status for each child needing care
- Proof of activity (recent pay stub, employer verification if newly hired, school/training schedule, or documents for health/treatment programs)
- Shelter verification if you’re in a DV or homeless shelter
- Proof of relationship/guardianship if you’re not the parent
- Your chosen DES‑contracted provider’s name, address, and phone
- Any unearned income records (child support, SSI, etc.) (des.az.gov)
- Timelines:
- Application processing: up to 30 days (answer DES phone calls and letters quickly to avoid delays).
- Waiting list: varies; DES is currently prioritizing families from 100% FPL upward in 10% steps through 165% FPL. (des.az.gov)
- Local help:
- Contact your local DES Child Care office: use “Find a Child Care Office” on DES and choose the nearest location (paper applications accepted). (des.az.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Get on the waiting list and ask CCR&R to filter programs that accept DES and offer sliding‑fee spots.
- Ask your school if it has a free 21st Century Community Learning Center (details below).
- Price out Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and city programs (many have scholarships and accept DES once you’re approved). (azccrr.com)
Free and low‑cost afterschool choices you can try next
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) — free at many Title I schools
Most important action: Ask your child’s school office today if it’s a 21st CCLC site and how to enroll. In FY 2025, Arizona had 238 CCLC sites statewide (e.g., 115 in Maricopa, 57 in Pima, 30 in Yuma). Programs typically offer homework help, enrichment, and family events, often until early evening. 21st CCLC main line: 520‑638‑4294. (azed.gov)
- Why this helps: It’s the only federal funding stream focused solely on out‑of‑school time. Programs are at high‑poverty, low‑performing schools and are designed to boost academics and engagement. (azed.gov)
- Summer options: Some centers run summer learning and enrichment. Ask your site for dates and hours. (azed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check the Arizona Afterschool Directory (AzCASE) to locate other free/low‑cost programs close to you.
- Ask the school about transportation or late bus options if pickup is the barrier. (azafterschool.org)
Boys & Girls Clubs (affordable; scholarships available)
Most important action: Call your nearest Club and ask for financial assistance (scholarships are common). In the Valley, membership is 30/year∗∗;afterschoolisoften∗∗30/year**; afterschool is often **60–$80/month for ages 5–12; teens attend free with membership. Examples:
- Grant Woods Branch (Mesa): membership 30∗∗,afterschool∗∗30**, afterschool **60/month, summer $80/week; phone 480‑844‑0963. (bgcaz.org)
- Thunderbirds Branch (Guadalupe): membership 30∗∗,afterschool∗∗30**, afterschool **60/month, summer $80/week; phone 480‑897‑6247. (bgcaz.org)
- Gilbert Branch: membership 30∗∗,afterschool∗∗30**, afterschool **80/month, summer $100/week; phone — (see branch page). (bgcaz.org)
- Tip: Teens (13–18) generally attend free with that $30 membership. Start at “Become a Member” for exact steps. (bgcaz.org)
- Organization‑wide fee info and scholarships: See BGCAZ’s fee restructure notice. (bgcaz.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about transportation from your child’s school.
- Ask to be placed on the Club’s scholarship waitlist and to set up a payment plan.
YMCA (DES‑accepting sites; income‑based “Y‑Assist”)
Most important action: Check the YMCA branch that serves your child’s school and ask about DES, sliding fee help, and monthly rates.
- Typical Valley of the Sun YMCA licensed afterschool rates (vary by branch): member 290/month∗∗,non‑member∗∗290/month**, non‑member **390/month. Long‑term commitment discounts can drop it to 246.50–246.50–261/month. Many sites accept DES. Branch example pages list monthly sessions. (phoenix.recliquecore.com)
- Financial help: Apply for Y‑Assist if the full fee is out of reach; billing support: 602‑212‑6019. (valleyymca.org, phoenix.recliquecore.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your school district if it partners with YMCA (some districts have lower district‑negotiated rates).
- Consider Boys & Girls Clubs or city parks programs below. (phxschools.org)
City and school district programs
- Phoenix Afterschool Center (PAC): City‑run afterschool at many school sites. Registration is first‑come, first‑served. Info and help: 602‑262‑7370 or email pac@phoenix.gov. Fees and hours vary by site and year; contact PAC for current rates. (phoenix.gov)
- Tucson Parks & Recreation KIDCO (afterschool): For ages 5–11; from school dismissal until 6 p.m. 2025–26 fees: 500∗∗perschoolyearforcityresidents(∗∗500** per school year for city residents (**625 for non‑residents). Info: 520‑791‑5912. (tucsonaz.gov)
- District‑hosted care example (Phoenix Elementary #1): YMCA on‑campus care lists afterschool at $200/month at select schools and accepts DES. Check your school’s page for current rates and registration. (phxschools.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about fee discounts for multiple kids or reduced‑fee options.
- Ask if your school qualifies for 21st CCLC (free) or CACFP supper/snack (free food) even if you pick another program for care. (azed.gov)
Summer nutrition and summer‑only supports
SUN Meals (free summer meals at schools and community sites)
Most important action: Search the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder for a nearby “Eat On‑Site” or “Meals To‑Go” location in eligible areas. No paperwork; kids 18 and under eat free. Updates are posted regularly each summer. (fns.usda.gov)
- Arizona note: AZ Health Zone posts an in‑state summer meals map and hotline; it also notes when the statewide program pauses at the end of summer and resumes the next year. If the map shows “ended for 2025,” plan ahead for late May 2026. Hotline: 602‑528‑3434 or 800‑445‑1914. (azhealthzone.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for nearby food pantries and school district meal services during breaks. (211arizona.org)
SUN Bucks (Summer‑EBT, new federal grocery help)
Most important action: Check your child’s status (many Arizona kids are auto‑issued) and update your mailing address with the school.
- Benefit amount: $120 per eligible child for summer groceries.
- 2025 status: Most eligible kids received benefits automatically based on 2024–25 participation in NSLP/SBP, SNAP/TANF/FDPIR/Head Start, or Medicaid at/below 185% FPL. 2025 applications closed August 5, 2025; appeals accepted until November 3, 2025.
- Card and help: SUN Bucks hotline 833‑648‑4406; EBT card help 888‑997‑9333. Benefits expire 122 days after issuance. Program pages: Arizona DOE and DES. (azed.gov, des.az.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you were denied, file an appeal before November 3, 2025.
- Apply again next year and be sure your child’s school lunch status and address are current. (azed.gov)
Food after school: free suppers and snacks at eligible programs
- At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) & Afterschool Snack (NSLP): Many school‑based or community programs serve a free supper and/or snack to all kids 18 and under in eligible areas—no applications for families. Ask your school or provider if they participate; school food authorities and community organizations enroll through the Arizona Department of Education. ADE Health & Nutrition Services: 602‑542‑8700. (azed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your afterschool site doesn’t serve a meal, ask where the nearest participating site is, or pack a snack covered by SNAP if you receive it. (azed.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| If you need this | Do this right now | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| An afterschool spot this week | Call CCR&R, ask for openings today/this week near your address, until at least 6 p.m. | 800‑308‑9000 (Arizona CCR&R) (azccrr.com) |
| Help paying for care | Apply for DES Child Care Assistance online, then call your local office to confirm receipt | DES A‑to‑Z portal; DES Child Care main line 833‑947‑6396; local offices via DES “Contact Child Care” page (des.az.gov) |
| Free afterschool learning | Ask your school: “Do you have a 21st CCLC program?” | AZ Dept. of Education 21st CCLC; main line 520‑638‑4294 (azed.gov) |
| Meals in summer | Search USDA Summer Meals finder | USDA Site Finder; AZ Health Zone hotline 602‑528‑3434 / 800‑445‑1914 (fns.usda.gov, azhealthzone.org) |
| Summer grocery benefit | Check SUN Bucks status, address, and deadlines | AZDOE SUN Bucks; hotline 833‑648‑4406 (azed.gov) |
Side‑by‑side program snapshot
| Program type | Typical ages | Hours (varies by site) | Cost to family | How to enroll |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21st CCLC (school‑based) | K–12 | After school; some summer | Free | Ask your school office; see ADE page (azed.gov) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs (Valley) | 5–18 | Afterschool to early evening; break camps | 30∗∗membership;∗∗30** membership; **60–$80/month (5–12); teens free | Join at your local Club; ask for scholarships (bgcaz.org) |
| YMCA before/after care | K–8 | Before school and after until ~6:30 p.m. | Member 290/mo∗∗,Non‑member∗∗290/mo**, Non‑member **390/mo; discounts available; many sites accept DES | Register at the branch serving your school; ask about Y‑Assist (phoenix.recliquecore.com) |
| City of Tucson KIDCO | 5–11 | Dismissal–6 p.m. | 500∗∗(resident)/∗∗500** (resident) / **625 (non‑resident) per school year | Register via Tucson Parks & Recreation; phone 520‑791‑5912 (tucsonaz.gov) |
| Phoenix PAC | 6–13 | Afterschool | Fees vary by site; contact PAC | Call 602‑262‑7370 or email pac@phoenix.gov (phoenix.gov) |
How to apply for DES Child Care Assistance (step‑by‑step)
- Step 1 — Create/Log in to A‑to‑Z Arizona: Start an application for Child Care Assistance. Keep your email and phone updated. (des.az.gov)
- Step 2 — Pick a provider: Use CCR&R or your school’s list to choose a provider (licensed center, family child care home, or a contracted relative caretaker). (des.az.gov)
- Step 3 — Upload documents: Identity, proof of children’s citizenship/qualified status, employment/training verification (or health/treatment documentation), proof of relationship if applicable, and your provider’s full contact details. (des.az.gov)
- Step 4 — Interview: DES may call for an eligibility interview or ask for more proof. Respond quickly to avoid delays. Decisions can take up to 30 days. (des.az.gov)
- Step 5 — Authorization: Don’t start care until DES issues the authorization for your chosen provider. Otherwise, you could be billed the full rate. (des.az.gov)
- If you disagree with a decision: Ask your specialist about a Fair Hearing. (des.az.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Stay on the waiting list; ask CCR&R for sliding‑fee programs and shorter hours (some providers discount partial‑week schedules).
- Ask your provider to hold a spot or accept short‑term self‑pay until your DES authorization starts. (azccrr.com)
What to bring on day one (Application Checklist)
- Photo ID for you; birth certificates or acceptable citizenship/qualified documents for each child
- Most recent pay stub or employer verification; school/training schedule
- Shelter or DV program letter if applicable
- Provider info (full legal name, address, phone)
- Any unearned income docs (child support, SSI, etc.) (des.az.gov)
Keep your child safe: licensing, monitoring, meals, and more
- Check licensing and inspection history: Review recent inspection reports at AZDHS’s online tool (AZCareCheck). If anything concerns you, call the Bureau of Child Care Licensing at 602‑542‑1025. (directorsblog.health.azdhs.gov, azdhs.gov)
- File a complaint (licensed programs): AZDHS accepts written complaints for licensed centers and certified group homes; DCS hotline for suspected abuse/neglect: 888‑767‑2445. (azccrr.com)
- Free meals at afterschool sites: Ask if your program participates in CACFP At‑Risk or NSLP Afterschool Snack (free to kids at qualifying sites). (azed.gov)
Regional highlights and real‑world examples
- Phoenix Metro:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley: Many locations; sample fees 60–60–80/month (youth) and teens free. Membership $30/year. Check your nearest branch’s page for exact pricing and hours. (bgcaz.org)
- Phoenix Afterschool Center (PAC): Call 602‑262‑7370 for site‑specific details and registration. (phoenix.gov)
- District‑hosted care: Example: Phoenix Elementary #1 lists YMCA care around $200/month at certain schools and indicates DES acceptance. Confirm at your school. (phxschools.org)
- Tucson & Pima County:
- KIDCO Afterschool: 500/schoolyear∗∗(residents)/∗∗500/school year** (residents) / **625 (non‑residents); phone 520‑791‑5912. Summer day camp options also offered (separate registration/fees). (tucsonaz.gov)
- Statewide:
- 21st CCLC sites: 238 sites statewide in FY 2025; call your school office first. If not available, search AzCASE’s Arizona Afterschool Directory (English/Spanish). (azed.gov, azafterschool.org)
Summer programs and timelines at a glance
| Resource | What it covers | 2025 dates to know | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUN Bucks (Summer‑EBT) | $120 grocery benefit per child | Applications closed August 5, 2025; appeals due November 3, 2025; benefits expire 122 days after issuance | 833‑648‑4406 (SUN Bucks); 888‑997‑9333 (EBT card) (azed.gov) |
| SUN Meals (Summer Meals) | Free meals for kids 18 and under | Site finder is refreshed weekly during summer | USDA Site Finder; AZ Health Zone hotline 602‑528‑3434 / 800‑445‑1914 (fns.usda.gov, azhealthzone.org) |
| 21st CCLC summer | Enrichment at select schools | Varies by site | Ask your school; ADE 21st CCLC main line 520‑638‑4294 (azed.gov) |
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Clubs/YMCA about affirming spaces and anti‑bullying policies. For help finding inclusive programs or support groups, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “LGBTQ‑friendly youth programs” in your ZIP. (211arizona.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell CCR&R what accommodations you need so they can filter accessible programs and providers experienced with IEP/504 coordination and personal care routines. Ask DES about reasonable modifications to appointments. (azccrr.com)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask 2‑1‑1 for veteran‑specific childcare vouchers or transportation help to programs near VA appointments. (211arizona.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Summer and afterschool meals are available to all children at participating sites with no ID checks. Ask your school for language assistance; 2‑1‑1 offers interpretation. (fns.usda.gov, 211arizona.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you or your child is a tribal citizen, your tribal Child Care & Development Fund (CCDF) program may help with afterschool or summer care on or off tribal land. Arizona tribal CCDF contacts include Navajo Nation (928‑871‑6629), Tohono O’odham Nation (520‑383‑7800), Gila River Indian Community (520‑562‑3640), Pascua Yaqui (520‑883‑5060), Salt River Pima‑Maricopa Indian Community (480‑362‑2202), San Carlos Apache (928‑475‑2703), White Mountain Apache (928‑338‑4555), and others. Call your tribal CCDF office to ask about eligibility, provider lists, and whether off‑reservation care can be covered while you attend school or work. (acf.hhs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask about “SUN Meals To‑Go” sites (in some rural areas) and school‑based 21st CCLC transportation options. If the nearest program is far, ask DES about using a relative caretaker. (fns.usda.gov, des.az.gov)
- Single fathers: All options above apply—programs and subsidies are based on the child and household, not gender.
- Language access: 2‑1‑1 and CCR&R offer help in English and Spanish with additional languages via interpreter services. (211arizona.org, azccrr.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming you’re over income: Many families qualify at 165% FPL—check the table above and apply. (aspe.hhs.gov, des.az.gov)
- Starting care before DES authorization: If DES hasn’t authorized your provider yet, you may be billed the full amount. (des.az.gov)
- Missing calls or letters from DES: This is a common reason for delays or denials. Put DES numbers (833‑947‑6396, 602‑542‑4248) in your phone. (des.az.gov)
- Not asking about free meals: Afterschool supper/snack can save you real money each week. (azed.gov)
- Overlooking scholarships: Clubs, YMCA, and city programs often have sliding fees or scholarships—ask. (bgcaz.org, phoenix.recliquecore.com)
Useful tables you can scan quickly
Table: DES Child Care — what to expect
| Item | What it means |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Arizona resident, child under 13, work/school/training/qualifying circumstances; income at or below 165% FPL for most categories; DCS/TANF referrals bypass income test |
| Waiting list | Active; as of September 5, 2025 there were 4,411 families and 7,376 children waiting |
| Processing time | Up to 30 days once your application is complete |
| Co‑pay | Based on income/family size; fixed for 12 months once set |
| Provider types | Licensed centers, licensed homes, or contracted relatives |
| Where to apply | A‑to‑Z portal; local DES Child Care offices accept paper applications |
Sources: DES “How to Apply,” DES Child Care main page, DES policy on fee levels/copays. (des.az.gov, azchildcarepolicy.azdes.gov)
Table: Sample low‑cost program fees (verify with your local site)
| Provider | Typical fees (subject to change) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boys & Girls Clubs (Valley) | Membership 30/year∗∗;afterschool∗∗30/year**; afterschool **60–$80/month (youth); teens free | Fees vary by branch; scholarships and payment plans available |
| YMCA (Valley) | Member 290/month∗∗;Non‑member∗∗290/month**; Non‑member **390/month; discount plans 246.50–246.50–261/month | Many sites accept DES; financial assistance (Y‑Assist) |
| Tucson KIDCO | 500∗∗(resident)/∗∗500** (resident) / **625 (non‑resident) per school year | Dismissal–6 p.m.; discount program for residents |
| Phoenix Elementary #1 (YMCA on campus) | Afterschool around $200/month | DES accepted at many district sites |
Sources: BGCAZ branch pages; YMCA program pages; Tucson Parks & Rec; Phoenix Elementary #1. (bgcaz.org, phoenix.recliquecore.com, tucsonaz.gov, phxschools.org)
Table: Key phone numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| DES Child Care (program line) | 833‑947‑6396 |
| DES Child Care (general info) | 602‑542‑4248 |
| CCR&R statewide | 800‑308‑9000 |
| 21st CCLC (ADE) | 520‑638‑4294 |
| ADE Health & Nutrition Services | 602‑542‑8700 |
| SUN Bucks hotline | 833‑648‑4406 |
| EBT card customer service | 888‑997‑9333 |
| AZ Hunger Hotline | 602‑528‑3434 / 800‑445‑1914 |
| AZDHS Child Care Licensing | 602‑542‑1025 |
| 2‑1‑1 Arizona | 2‑1‑1 / 877‑211‑8661 |
Sources: DES contacts; ADE; AZ Health Zone; ADHS; 2‑1‑1. (des.az.gov, azed.gov, azhealthzone.org, azdhs.gov, 211arizona.org)
Table: Where to verify a program
| Need | Where to check |
|---|---|
| Is the site licensed and compliant? | AZDHS AZCareCheck (inspection reports, licensing status) |
| Is it a 21st CCLC school? | ADE 21st CCLC “Which schools are participating?” and county map |
| Meals available after school? | Ask school food service; ADE Afterschool Meals/Snack |
| Summer meals site hours | USDA Site Finder; AZ Health Zone |
Sources: AZDHS; ADE; USDA; AZ Health Zone. (directorsblog.health.azdhs.gov, azed.gov, fns.usda.gov, azhealthzone.org)
FAQs (Arizona‑specific)
- What is the income limit for DES Child Care?Answer: Initial eligibility is at or below 165% FPL for most categories. See the monthly amounts table above. DCS/TANF‑referred families aren’t income‑tested. (des.az.gov)
- How long does DES take to decide?Answer: Up to 30 days from a complete application. Respond to any DES requests quickly. (des.az.gov)
- Is there a DES waiting list right now?Answer: Yes. As of September 5, 2025, 4,411 families and 7,376 children were on the list. DES is releasing families starting with lowest incomes first. (des.az.gov)
- Can DES pay a relative to watch my child after school?Answer: DES allows care with a licensed provider, licensed family home, or a contracted relative caretaker. Ask your specialist how to set up a relative caretaker. (des.az.gov)
- Where can I find free afterschool programs?Answer: Ask your school about 21st CCLC; there were 238 Arizona sites in FY 2025. Also check the Arizona Afterschool Directory (AzCASE). (azed.gov, azafterschool.org)
- Are meals included at afterschool programs?Answer: Many sites serve a free supper/snack under CACFP At‑Risk or NSLP Afterschool Snack in eligible areas. Ask your site. (azed.gov)
- What’s the summer grocery benefit (SUN Bucks) amount?Answer: $120 per eligible child. 2025 applications closed August 5, 2025; appeals are due November 3, 2025. Hotline 833‑648‑4406. (azed.gov)
- How do I quickly compare low‑cost programs in Phoenix and Tucson?Answer: Boys & Girls Clubs (60–60–80/month youth, teens free), YMCA (290–290–390/month, DES accepted, assistance available), and Tucson KIDCO (500–500–625/school year). Check your exact site for hours and transport. (bgcaz.org, phoenix.recliquecore.com, tucsonaz.gov)
- Who do I call to check a provider’s safety record?Answer: AZDHS Child Care Licensing at 602‑542‑1025 or search AZCareCheck for inspection reports. (azdhs.gov)
- I don’t see summer meal sites near me. What now?Answer: The USDA Site Finder updates regularly; AZ Health Zone maintains state info. Call the AZ Hunger Hotline (602‑528‑3434 / 800‑445‑1914) to confirm open locations. (fns.usda.gov, azhealthzone.org)
What to do if none of the above lands a spot this week
- Call 2‑1‑1 and explain you need same‑week afterschool coverage to keep a job. Ask for programs with extended hours, transportation, or drop‑in options (some Ys and Clubs can start the same day once forms are done). (211arizona.org)
- Ask your school’s front office about 21st CCLC, teacher‑run clubs, or supervised homework rooms that bridge the gap until pickup. (azed.gov)
- Check AzCASE’s directory by ZIP for churches, libraries, and city sites that run supervised programs. (azafterschool.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), Arizona Department of Education (ADE), USDA Food and Nutrition Service, AZ Department of Health Services, and established nonprofits (Arizona 2‑1‑1, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley, YMCA).
Editorial standards: We follow our published Editorial Standards for research and verification and prioritize official, up‑to‑date sources. We link to calculators or official pages for amounts that change frequently. We correct verified errors promptly.
Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
To suggest a correction or new resource, email info@asinglemother.org. We typically respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Important: Program amounts, eligibility, fees, and site hours change frequently. Always verify details with the agency or program before you enroll or pay.
Security note: For your safety, avoid posting personal information in public forums. Keep your device and browser updated, and log out of benefits portals after use.
ASingleMother.org is an independent research site. We are not a government agency and we cannot guarantee any individual outcome. Nothing here is legal advice.
Sources (selected)
- DES Child Care Assistance – Apply, eligibility, processing time, waiting list: [Arizona DES – How to Apply for Child Care Assistance] and [Arizona DES – Child Care] (waiting list details). (des.az.gov)
- DES contact numbers: [DES Program and Services Contact Numbers]. (des.az.gov)
- DES fee level/copayment policy; copay stability: [DES Policy: Fee Level and Copayment Assignment] and [Arizona Admin. Code R6‑5‑4915]. (azchildcarepolicy.azdes.gov, regulations.justia.com)
- CCR&R statewide: [Arizona CCR&R Contact]. (azccrr.com)
- 21st CCLC program & statewide counts: [ADE 21st CCLC What is], [ADE 21st CCLC county map FY2025]. (azed.gov)
- Afterschool meals/snack: [ADE Afterschool Care Snack & At‑Risk Meals]. (azed.gov)
- SUN Meals (USDA): [USDA Summer Meals Site Finder / SUN Meals]. (fns.usda.gov)
- AZ Health Zone summer meals hub: [AZ Health Zone – Free Summer Meals]. (azhealthzone.org)
- SUN Bucks (Summer‑EBT) 2025: [ADE SUN Bucks – Parents], [DES SUN Bucks]. (azed.gov, des.az.gov)
- HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines: [ASPE Poverty Guidelines 2025]. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley fees/examples: [BGCAZ Grant Woods (Mesa)], [BGCAZ Thunderbirds (Guadalupe)], [BGCAZ Gilbert], [BGCAZ Become a Member], [BGCAZ Fee Restructure]. (bgcaz.org)
- YMCA (Valley) rates & assistance: [Before & After School Programs], [Financial Assistance/Y‑Assist], [Billing Contacts]. (phoenix.recliquecore.com, valleyymca.org)
- Phoenix Elementary #1 rates example: [Before & After‑School Care (YMCA) – Phoenix Elementary #1]. (phxschools.org)
- City programs: [Phoenix PAC], [Tucson KIDCO Youth Programs]. (phoenix.gov, tucsonaz.gov)
- Licensing checks: [AZDHS Child Care Licensing], [AZDHS blog – AZCareCheck]. (azdhs.gov, directorsblog.health.azdhs.gov)
- Arizona 2‑1‑1: [2‑1‑1 Arizona]. (211arizona.org)
- Domestic violence helplines: [ACESDV Helpline & Hours], [DES DV Support page]. (arizonasurvivors.org, des.az.gov)
- Tribal CCDF contacts: [ACF – Tribal CCDF Contacts by State (Arizona)]. (acf.hhs.gov)
If a link is down, try the agency’s main site search bar and type the program name (for example, “DES Child Care Assistance” or “ADE SUN Bucks”).
🏛️More Arizona Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arizona
- 📋 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
