Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in California
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Call 2‑1‑1 or (877) 355‑8922 statewide to get live help finding afterschool or summer programs and child care subsidies in your county. (211ca.org)
- Use your school district’s expanded learning desk first. LAUSD Beyond the Bell (213) 241‑7900, San Diego Unified Extended Learning (858) 503‑1870, SFUSD ExCEL hub pages are current and site-based. Links and phones below. (btb.lausd.org, sites.google.com, sfusd.edu)
- If you need child care subsidies to cover before/after school or summer camp, check if your income is under the 85% State Median Income (SMI) limits below and apply through your county or local Resource & Referral (R&R) agency at 1‑800‑KIDS‑793. Family fees are capped at 1% of income and waived at or below 75% SMI. (cdss.ca.gov)
- For summer meals and grocery help for kids, search sites on the USDA Summer Meals Finder and CA Meals for Kids app. SUN Bucks gives $120 per child each summer with benefits expiring after 122 days. (fns.usda.gov, cde.ca.gov, gov.ca.gov)
- If your child has disabilities, ask your Regional Center about funded social recreation and camps; call (833) 421‑0061 to find your center. (dds.ca.gov)
Emergency Options First
- Safety: If you or your child are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Mental health: Call/text 988 for crisis support 24/7.
- Food right now: Dial 2‑1‑1 for nearest meal sites; in summer, use the USDA Summer Meals Finder or the CA Meals for Kids mobile app to locate free kid meal sites near you. (211ca.org, fns.usda.gov, cde.ca.gov)
- Fast child care navigation: Call your local R&R via 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 to get afterschool or summer openings that accept subsidies. (rrnetwork.org)
What’s in this guide
- California school‑based programs (ELO‑P, ASES, 21st CCLC/ASSETs) and what they really cover.
- How to use child care subsidies (CalWORKs Stages 1–3 and Alternative Payment Programs) to pay for before/after school and summer camps—current income limits, fees, and timelines.
- Verified local contacts and sign‑up windows for big districts.
- Summer food benefits and free park access that stretch your budget.
- Plans B and C if you hit a waitlist.
- Application checklists, common mistakes, and timelines.
This guide focuses on practical steps, with direct links and amounts drawn from official California and federal sources.
At‑a‑Glance: Which option fits your family
| Program | Covers | Who gets priority | What it costs you | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO‑P) | Before school, after school, and at least 30 non‑school summer/intersession days | Unduplicated pupils (free/reduced‑price meals, English learners, foster/homeless), K–6 | Free for prioritized students; sliding‑scale fees allowed for others | Your school/district’s expanded learning office |
| ASES | After school (K–9) at many public schools | Title I/high‑need schools | Often free; if fees are charged, must be sliding scale and waived for FRPM, foster, homeless | Your school office or district afterschool office |
| 21st CCLC/ASSETs | After school (K–8) and high school (ASSETs) | Title I/high‑poverty schools | Typically free; any fees require CDE approval and waivers/scholarships | Your school site program lead |
| Child care subsidies (CalWORKs/CAPP) | Licensed before/after school care, day camps, summer care | Income‑eligible families (up to 85% SMI); CalWORKs participants | Family fee is at most 1% of income; waived below 75% SMI | County welfare office or local R&R at 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 |
Sources summarized from California Education Code and CDE/CDSS guidance. (cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
ELO‑P: Your fastest path to free before/after school and summer days (TK–6)
What to do right now: Contact your school or district expanded learning office and ask for the ELO‑P application/enrollment for your child’s school. If you qualify for free/reduced‑price meals, are experiencing homelessness, or your child is in foster care, tell them—those pupils must be admitted free of charge. (cde.ca.gov)
- What ELO‑P must provide: On school days, programs combine the school day and expanded learning to equal at least nine hours; plus at least 30 non‑school days with nine hours of in‑person expanded learning. Programs must prioritize unduplicated pupils and provide transportation if a pupil’s school isn’t operating ELO‑P. (codes.findlaw.com, cde.ca.gov)
- Costs: Districts may charge fees to families not in the prioritized groups, but fees must be on a sliding scale and waived for free/reduced‑price meal‑eligible, homeless, and foster youth. Self‑certification for waivers is allowed. If someone asks you to pay and you’re FRPM, homeless, or foster—say so and ask for the waiver. (cde.ca.gov)
- Reality check: Some districts are still scaling up ELO‑P staffing and space. Capacity and hours can vary, and waitlists are common at popular sites. Programs are audited; districts can face penalties for missing the nine‑hour or 30‑day requirements. (cde.ca.gov)
- How to find contacts:
- LAUSD Beyond the Bell (213) 241‑7900 — central office. (btb.lausd.org)
- San Diego Unified Extended Learning (858) 503‑1870, PrimeTime info and site contacts listed online; the 2025 summer served about 34,000 students and 70 meal sites. (ymcasd.org, sandiegounified.org)
- SFUSD ExCEL — see program hub and site listings; program pages updated summer 2025. (sfusd.edu)
- Key timelines: Enrollment windows often open in spring. Example—San Diego Unified shifted to a lottery for 2025‑26 with an application window April 14–May 2, 2025; priority goes to homeless/foster, low‑income, and English learners. (kpbs.org)
- Documents: School ID info; if relevant, proof you qualify for free/reduced‑price meals (or self‑certify), foster status, or McKinney‑Vento status. Self‑certification is allowed for fee waiver eligibility. (cde.ca.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about ASES or 21st CCLC at your campus; request referrals to community partners (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs). If you need guaranteed after‑school coverage for work hours, apply for child care subsidies (below) to pay for licensed afterschool programs or summer camps.
ASES and 21st CCLC/ASSETs: Free or low‑cost school‑based programs (K–12)
- ASES funds afterschool at K–9 schools statewide; daily funding rate to programs in 2024‑25 was about $10.18 per student day (program funding amount; not a parent fee). Programs may charge family fees but must use sliding scales and waive fees for FRPM, homeless, and foster youth; no one can be denied because of inability to pay. (lao.ca.gov, cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- 21st CCLC (K–8) and ASSETs (9–12) are federally funded and typically free at participating schools. If any fee is proposed, CDE must pre‑approve it and programs must offer sliding scales and scholarships; no exclusions for inability to pay. Typical award amounts per site in recent cycles: 21st CCLC up to about 152,662.50∗∗;ASSETsupto∗∗152,662.50**; ASSETs up to **254,500 per year. (cde.ca.gov, grants.ca.gov)
- How to find them: Ask your school office which program runs on your campus (ASES/21st CCLC/ASSETs), how to enroll, and whether summer programming is offered on or off‑site.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school doesn’t host a program or is full, ask your district about ELO‑P seats at nearby schools with transport, or use subsidies to enroll in a licensed community program (YMCA, Boys & Girls Club sites that accept assistance).
Using child care subsidies to pay for afterschool and summer
If you work, go to school, or are in job activities, subsidies can cover licensed before/after school care and day/summer camps, even when your child is school‑age.
Income eligibility (effective July 1, 2025)
Families are income‑eligible at or below 85% of State Median Income (SMI):
| Family size | Monthly income (≤ 85% SMI) | Annual income (≤ 85% SMI) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | $6,860 | $82,326 |
| 3 | $7,785 | $93,418 |
| 4 | $9,020 | $108,237 |
| 5 | $10,463 | $125,555 |
| 6 | $11,906 | $142,873 |
Source: CDSS Child Care Bulletin 25‑17, Schedule of Income Ceilings (FY 2025‑26). (cdss.ca.gov)
- Family fees: For CDSS‑administered programs (CalWORKs Stage 1–3, CAPP, etc.), monthly family fees are capped at 1% of adjusted monthly income, and families at or below 75% SMI pay $0 in fees. Fees are assessed at certification/recertification (every ≤24 months) or when you request a reduction. CalWORKs cash‑aid families pay no family fees. (cdss.ca.gov)
- How to apply:
- CalWORKs participants: Ask your county worker to open child care right away (Stage 1) and maintain as you move to Stage 2/3. Find your county office on the CDSS page; Los Angeles DPSS child care hotline is (877) 244‑5399. (cdss.ca.gov)
- Not on CalWORKs: Apply through your local R&R for a CAPP/AP voucher. Start at 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 or search by ZIP to contact your local agency. (rrnetwork.org)
- What it covers: Licensed centers and family child care homes offering school‑age care; many day/summer camps (if licensed or qualifying). Ask whether the provider accepts subsidies.
- Timelines: Counties can take several weeks to process vouchers. If you are starting a job or training, tell the worker and request immediate/retroactive authorization where allowed.
- Documents: Photo ID, proof of address, proof of income (paystubs), proof of work/training hours, child’s birth record, immunizations. If experiencing homelessness or domestic violence, ask about flexibilities.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Stay active on the waitlist; call weekly. Ask the R&R about short‑term vouchers, respite, or bridge funds in your county. If denied due to income close to the limit, recalculate using the last 2–12 months average if variable—it can lower your fee or help eligibility. (cdss.ca.gov)
Free summer food, groceries, and safe places
- SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): California issues $120 per eligible child each summer—most FRPM, CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi‑Cal families are auto‑enrolled. Cards began mailing in June 2025; funds expire 122 days after they’re added. If not auto‑enrolled, you can still qualify by submitting a school meal or universal benefits form by September 1, 2025. (gov.ca.gov)
- Summer & afterschool meals: Find “Eat On‑Site” or “Meals To‑Go” locations with the USDA Summer Meals Finder or the CA Meals for Kids app. All kids 18 and under eat free at participating sites—no application. (fns.usda.gov, cde.ca.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to locate food banks, pantry days, and nearby free meal sites. (211ca.org)
Free or low‑cost community options (with real prices)
- Boys & Girls Clubs: Many California clubs are low‑cost with scholarships.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco: school‑year membership 170∗∗(someclubhouses∗∗170** (some clubhouses **50), summer membership 170∗∗citywideand∗∗170** citywide and **50 at designated sites; teen membership $20. Financial aid available. (kidsclub.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles: school‑year membership 25**; aid available; main office **(213) 628‑3673**. Some independent clubs (e.g., Burbank & Greater East Valley) publish monthly fees (**180/month elementary) with aid. Always ask for scholarships. (bgcmla.org, bgcburbank.org)
- YMCA: Many Ys partner with school districts (often free via ELO‑P or district funding). Otherwise, fees vary by branch; financial assistance is offered—apply via FA@ymcaLA.org, or ask your local branch. Some Ys accept third‑party subsidies (CCRC, Crystal Stairs, MAOF, etc.). (ymcala.org)
- LA’s BEST (LAUSD): Free at participating elementary schools, including summer. Central office (213) 241‑7900. (lasbest.org)
- San Diego Unified PrimeTime: Free at participating sites; program contacts and site phones are posted publicly. (ymcasd.org)
- Sacramento START: City‑run afterschool at select elementary schools; main office (916) 808‑6089. (cityofsacramento.gov)
- San Francisco Beacon Initiative/ExCEL partners: Site‑based, often free for prioritized students; check your school’s page or CBO lead. Example program phones are listed by school (e.g., AP Giannini Beacon; YMCA/Beacon at MLK Academic MS). (sfusd.edu, ymcasf.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask any program about income‑based scholarships and whether they accept subsidies. Bring your subsidy voucher number (if you have one).
Statewide contacts you can use today
| Need | Who to call or click |
|---|---|
| Find child care openings, apply for vouchers | 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 or search your local R&R agency online |
| County CalWORKs child care office | CDSS County Offices directory (phones listed for every county) |
| CDE Expanded Learning (program basics) | CDE Expanded Learning/O ELO‑P pages; program FAQs |
| ELO‑P & 21st CCLC/ASSETs program desk | CDE Expanded Learning Division (916) 319‑0923 |
| Summer meals search | USDA Summer Meals Finder; CA Meals for Kids app |
Sources: CDSS/CDE official portals and USDA program pages. (cdss.ca.gov, rrnetwork.org, cde.ca.gov, fns.usda.gov)
District and city program directory (quick dials)
| Area | Main program | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAUSD) | Beyond the Bell / LA’s BEST | (213) 241‑7900; central office listing and site apps online |
| San Diego Unified | Extended Learning / PrimeTime | (858) 503‑1870 (PrimeTime); (858) 810‑7310 (ELO office) |
| San Francisco | ExCEL / Beacon sites | Program pages by school; contact listed per site |
| Sacramento (Robla & partners) | Sacramento START | (916) 808‑6089; site phones listed online |
| Statewide info | 2‑1‑1 California | Call 2‑1‑1 (24/7) |
Citations: LAUSD Beyond the Bell; SDUSD Extended Learning; SFUSD ExCEL pages; Sacramento START; 2‑1‑1 CA. (btb.lausd.org, sites.google.com, sfusd.edu, cityofsacramento.gov, 211ca.org)
How fees work in school‑based programs (know your rights)
- ELO‑P: Districts may charge fees to non‑prioritized students, but fees must be sliding‑scale. No fees allowed for FRPM‑eligible, homeless, or foster youth; self‑certification for waivers is allowed. (cde.ca.gov)
- ASES (and related afterschool programs): If fees are charged, they must be on a sliding scale, and no child can be turned away because of inability to pay. (cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- 21st CCLC/ASSETs: Any fee system requires prior CDE approval and must include sliding scales and scholarships; no exclusion due to inability to pay. (cde.ca.gov)
- CSPP/child care fee caps: For state child care programs under CDSS/CDE, family fees are limited to 1% of income, and families below 75% SMI pay $0. (cdss.ca.gov)
ELO‑P and ASES requirements you can use when you talk to the school
| Topic | ELO‑P (TK–6) | ASES (K–9) |
|---|---|---|
| Days/Hours | Nine hours combined on school days and nine hours on at least 30 non‑school days | Afterschool daily; hours vary by site |
| Priority | Unduplicated pupils (FRPM, EL, foster/homeless) | High‑need schools; site enrollment caps |
| Transportation | Required when a pupil’s school lacks ELO‑P and a nearby site has access | Not required in statute |
| Fees | Sliding scale allowed; waived for FRPM, foster, homeless | Sliding scale permitted; cannot deny due to inability to pay |
Sources: EC §46120 and CDE ELO‑P FAQs; EC §8482.6; CDE fiscal advisories. (codes.findlaw.com, cde.ca.gov)
Stretch your summer: Free parks and outdoor learning
- Golden Bear Pass: If you get CalWORKs or Tribal TANF, you can apply for a free vehicle day‑use pass to 200+ state parks for the calendar year. Call (888) 445‑1955 for help. (cdss.ca.gov)
- State Library Parks Pass: Many public libraries let you check out a free pass for vehicle day‑use at 200+ state parks. Check your branch for availability. (parks.ca.gov, library.ca.gov)
- Adventure Pass (4th graders): Free state park entry for your 4th‑grader’s family for a full school year and the summer after; sign up online. (parks.ca.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the librarian for park‑pass waitlist options and free family nature programs; check city parks and county recreation scholarship forms.
Real‑world examples
- You work 8:00–4:30 and your school lacks aftercare: Ask the district to place your child at a nearby ELO‑P site and provide transport (required under EC 46120). If placement isn’t available, apply for a CAPP voucher to pay a licensed afterschool program near work; your family fee will be $0–1% of income depending on SMI. (cde.ca.gov, cdss.ca.gov)
- You’re on CalWORKs and just started a job: Request Stage 1 child care the same day through your county; your family fee is $0 while on cash aid. If the school program is full, a voucher can pay a licensed provider or camp that matches your shift. (cdss.ca.gov)
- Teen needs a summer plan: Check your high school’s ASSETs site for summer enrichment and safe spaces; for work readiness, contact EDD’s Youth Employment Opportunity Program (YEOP) office in your county (e.g., San Francisco (415) 749‑7586, San Diego (619) 266‑4221). (edd.ca.gov)
Application checklist (print this)
- School/district programs:
- Proof of student: Student ID or enrollment letter.
- Priority proofs: FRPM eligibility letter or self‑certification, foster care letter, or McKinney‑Vento liaison note.
- Schedule: Your work/training hours if asking for extended care.
- Contacts: School office phone and site coordinator email.
- Child care subsidies:
- ID and address: Photo ID, current mail.
- Income: The last 2–12 months of paystubs (averaging is allowed if income varies).
- Need: Work/training schedule or job offer.
- Child: Birth record, immunizations.
- Provider: Name and license number (if you have a provider in mind).
Family fee reductions take effect the month after the Notice of Action. Appeal deadlines are short—usually 14–19 days—so read notices carefully. (cdss.ca.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not disclosing priority status: If you qualify for free/reduced‑price meals, are homeless, or your child is in foster care, say it. Fees must be waived for you in ELO‑P/ASES. (cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- Waiting for summer to plan: Most districts fill ELO‑P/PrimeTime seats in spring. Track your district’s window (e.g., SDUSD used April 14–May 2, 2025) and apply early. (kpbs.org)
- Assuming child care vouchers won’t cover school‑age kids: They do. Use vouchers for licensed before/after school care and many day camps. Fees are 0–10–1%** of income, and **0 if you’re ≤75% SMI. (cdss.ca.gov)
- Paying full program fees when you’re eligible for a waiver: ELO‑P/ASES must waive fees for FRPM/homeless/foster youth; 21st CCLC fees require scholarships if charged. (cde.ca.gov)
- Not averaging income: If your hours or pay vary, ask to average the last 2–12 months for a lower assessed fee. (cdss.ca.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Tip: Ask your district’s ELO‑P or ASSETs site about inclusive clubs and safe‑space policies; school sites are bound by California’s anti‑discrimination rules. If you encounter issues, contact the district Title IX office and ask for the site’s expanded learning lead to intervene.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Regional Centers can fund social recreation and camps again (restored and active in 2024–25). Call (833) 421‑0061 to find your center and ask about “social recreation,” “camping,” or “after‑school social skills” in your child’s IPP. Some families may share costs under Family Cost Participation rules; ask your service coordinator. (dds.ca.gov, ggrc.org, rula.disabilityrightsca.org)
- Veteran single mothers: On‑base School‑Age Care uses DoD sliding‑scale fees (weekly rates vary by income), and fee assistance is available off‑base via MCCYN through Child Care Aware. Check the 2024–25 DoD fee chart and call your installation’s Child & Youth Program office or visit MilitaryChildCare.com. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Your child’s right to enroll is protected regardless of immigration status, and districts should not ask for immigration or Social Security information. California’s Safe Havens policy and AB 699 require protections and limit immigration enforcement on campuses. If fear of enforcement is keeping you away, ask your school for the “Safe Haven” policy and the Homeless Education liaison. (cde.ca.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Check the American Indian Education Centers directory for tutoring and after‑school supports in your county, and ask your district if Johnson‑O’Malley funds are offered locally. (cde.ca.gov, bie.edu)
- Rural single moms with limited access: ELO‑P requires nine hours on 30 non‑school days, but frontier areas may meet an eight‑hour standard. Transportation is required when your child’s school lacks ELO‑P and a nearby site has access. If distance is the barrier, ask about mileage reimbursement or district transport plans. (codes.findlaw.com, cde.ca.gov)
- Single fathers: All the same programs apply. If anyone says a program is “for moms,” ask for the written eligibility policy and escalate to the district expanded learning director; programs must be open to all families meeting criteria.
- Language access: Ask every office for an interpreter. State agencies and districts maintain translation lines; R&R agencies offer help in 200+ languages via Language Line. If you’re not getting service in your language, ask for a supervisor and reference “language access.”
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Need aftercare now: Call your school office, then the district expanded learning office. If full, apply for a R&R subsidy voucher to pay a licensed program.
- Need summer coverage: Ask for ELO‑P summer or ASSETs/21st programs. Use vouchers for day camps and ask the provider if they accept subsidies.
- On CalWORKs: Tell your worker you need child care (Stage 1) immediately; fees are $0 while on aid.
- Food during summer: Use the Summer Meals Finder or CA Meals for Kids; activate SUN Bucks cards quickly (funds expire after 122 days). (fns.usda.gov, cde.ca.gov, gov.ca.gov)
How to apply: Step‑by‑step
- Call your school.
- Ask: Is there ELO‑P/ASES/21st CCLC at this campus? How do I enroll? When is summer sign‑up? If you’re FRPM‑eligible, homeless, or your child is in foster care, say it upfront.
- If the school is full, call the district expanded learning office.
- Ask: Do you have seats at a nearby site? Does transport run to that site? If not, proceed to vouchers.
- Apply for subsidies.
- Call: 1‑800‑KIDS‑793 or your county welfare office.
- Ask: I need before/after school care and summer care to work—can I get a voucher now? (Average your income if variable; your family fee is at most 1%.) (rrnetwork.org, cdss.ca.gov)
- Pick a provider.
- Choose the school program (if available) or a licensed provider near home/work. Ask if they accept your voucher.
- Lock in summer meals and outdoor options.
- Save sites in the CA Meals for Kids app; consider free park passes (Golden Bear, Library Parks Pass, Adventure Pass). (cde.ca.gov, cdss.ca.gov, parks.ca.gov)
Frequently asked questions (California‑specific)
- How much does ELO‑P cost for my child?
Answer: For FRPM‑eligible, foster, or homeless pupils—$0. Others may pay sliding‑scale fees if your district charges. Ask about a waiver and self‑certification. (cde.ca.gov) - My school doesn’t have ELO‑P. Can my child go elsewhere and get transportation?
Answer: Yes. Districts that receive ELO‑P funds must provide transportation to an ELO‑P site if your school isn’t operating one. (cde.ca.gov) - What time does ELO‑P run in summer?
Answer: Programs must operate at least nine hours per day on at least 30 non‑school days (many run 8am–5pm). (codes.findlaw.com) - Is ASES free?
Answer: Often yes. If a site charges, fees must be sliding‑scale and waived for FRPM, foster, and homeless youth; no one can be denied for inability to pay. (cde.ca.gov) - I missed my district’s application window. Now what?
Answer: Ask to be wait‑listed and call weekly. Meanwhile, apply for a subsidy and enroll with a licensed community provider. - What are the 2025–26 income limits for subsidies?
Answer: For a family of four, up to 9,020/month∗∗(∗∗9,020/month** (**108,237/year). See the table above for other sizes. (cdss.ca.gov) - How much are child care family fees?
Answer: At most 1% of your adjusted monthly income; $0 if you’re at or below 75% SMI or on CalWORKs cash aid. (cdss.ca.gov) - When will my subsidy fee change take effect if reduced?
Answer: The month after the Notice of Action is issued. You have 14–19 days to appeal changes. (cdss.ca.gov) - Do teen programs exist?
Answer: Yes—ASSETs programs at many high schools are free, and EDD’s YEOP offers coaching and referrals (e.g., San Diego (619) 266‑4221, SF (415) 749‑7586). (grants.ca.gov, edd.ca.gov) - Are programs safe for undocumented families?
Answer: Schools should not ask for immigration status for enrollment; California’s Safe Havens guidance supports immigrant families, and districts are adopting stronger protections. (cde.ca.gov)
What top search results miss (and how this guide fills the gaps)
- Precise fee rules: We included the 1% family fee cap and 75% SMI fee waiver and the current 85% SMI income ceilings from FY 2025‑26 CDSS bulletins. Many pages still show older figures. (cdss.ca.gov)
- 9‑hour/30‑day requirement and transportation: We highlighted ELO‑P’s hours and transport obligation so you can advocate when sites run shorter days or lack buses. (codes.findlaw.com, cde.ca.gov)
- Real phone numbers and windows: You get district phones and actual application windows (e.g., SDUSD’s April‑May 2025 lottery), plus R&R and county hotlines. (kpbs.org)
- Plan B options: We show exactly how to pivot to subsidies and community providers with scholarships.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the California Department of Education (Expanded Learning/ELO‑P, ASES/21st CCLC), California Department of Social Services (child care subsidies), USDA FNS (SUN Programs), and established nonprofits (211 network, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA). It follows our Editorial Standards focused on primary sources, link verification, and timely updates.
This editorial standards page was last updated August 2025. We maintain regular review cycles and update within 48 hours of confirmed policy changes.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Information changes quickly: program rules, income limits, fees, and timelines can shift mid‑year. Always verify with your school or agency before you enroll or pay.
No legal advice: This guide is informational and not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits.
Security: To keep our website secure, never submit personal documents (SSNs, immigration records, paystubs) through public comments. Use official school or county portals and phone numbers listed above.
Sources (selected)
- CDE Expanded Learning — ELO‑P program page and FAQs; ELO‑P hours/30 days; fee rules; and transportation obligation. (cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- ELO‑P dates/lottery example — San Diego Unified 2025 coverage and district pages. (kpbs.org, sandiegounified.org)
- ASES daily rate context — LAO 2025‑26 report; fee guidance (CDE fiscal advisory); EC §8482.6. (lao.ca.gov, cde.ca.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
- 21st CCLC/ASSETs fee policy and grant amounts — CDE FAQs and California Grants Portal listings. (cde.ca.gov, grants.ca.gov)
- Child care subsidies — CDSS Family Fee Schedule FY 2025‑26 (CCB 25‑16); SMI ceilings FY 2025‑26 (CCB 25‑17); CalWORKs child care eligibility and county offices directory. (cdss.ca.gov, cdss.ca.gov)
- Summer food — USDA Summer Meals Finder; CA Meals for Kids app; SUN Bucks press release (2025). (fns.usda.gov, cde.ca.gov, gov.ca.gov)
- Community programs and contacts — LAUSD Beyond the Bell; SDUSD Extended Learning/PrimeTime; SFUSD ExCEL; Sacramento START. (btb.lausd.org, sites.google.com, sfusd.edu, cityofsacramento.gov)
- Nonprofit options — Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco pricing; BGC Metro LA membership; YMCA LA assistance policy and program pages. (kidsclub.org, bgcmla.org, ymcala.org)
- Free parks — Golden Bear Pass (CalWORKs/Tribal TANF); State Library Parks Pass; Adventure Pass. (cdss.ca.gov, parks.ca.gov)
If you need help working through any step, reply with your ZIP code and your child’s grade, and we’ll map the exact district contacts and closest subsidy agencies for you.
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- 🏠 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
