Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Colorado
Last Updated on November 19, 2025 by Rachel
Last updated: September 2025
Quick help box
- If you need care fast: Start with the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) and your school’s afterschool office. Apply online and call your county human services to ask about current openings or freezes. Use Colorado Shines to find licensed providers that take CCCAP. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- If your county CCCAP is frozen: Add your name to the county’s freeze or waitlist list, then use immediate low‑ or no‑cost options like Boys & Girls Clubs, 21st Century Community Learning Centers at your child’s school, and city recreation programs. (jeffco.us, adcogov.org, cde.state.co.us, cde.state.co.us)
- For free meals while in programs or during summer: Use Afterschool Snack and CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool at schools or the USDA Summer Meals Finder for free meals near you. For Summer EBT 2025, most eligible kids receive $120 per child automatically. (cde.state.co.us, cdphe.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov, cdhs.colorado.gov)
- If you’re in Denver: Check Discovery Link afterschool and summer camps, MY Denver Card, and Boys & Girls Clubs. Discovery Link fees are typically 12AM∗∗and∗∗12 AM** and **18 PM per day at many sites, with some grant‑funded sites free. The MY Denver Card gives ages 5–18 free access to recreation centers. (westerlycreek.dpsk12.org, elcs.dpsk12.org, denvergov.org)
- Talk to a live navigator now: Dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489 to reach 211 Colorado. Ask for childcare referrals, CCCAP help, food, rent, and more. (211colorado.org)
- Emergency child safety or family crisis: Call 911 for immediate danger. For statewide help finding resources, dial 2‑1‑1. For food help, call Hunger Free Colorado’s Food Resource Hotline (855) 855‑4626. (211colorado.org, raisingcoloradokids.com)
Emergency and urgent options
- Safety first: If a situation is unsafe, call 911. Schools and licensed clubs can’t release children to unknown adults and may require photo ID at pickup.
- Find a warm handoff now: Dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 for a navigator who can connect you to childcare, scholarships, food, and transportation options. 211 can also refer you to CCCAP and child care resource and referral specialists. (unitedwaydenver.org)
- Food while you wait: Use the USDA Summer Meals Finder to locate free grab‑and‑go or on‑site meals for any child 18 and under. Most Colorado sites are listed and updated weekly in summer. (fns.usda.gov)
How to use this guide quickly
- Start here: Apply for CCCAP, then line up a backup option in case your county has a freeze. Check school‑based programs and Boys & Girls Clubs that can start sooner.
- Use the tables below: They summarize costs, eligibility, and contacts so you don’t have to click around.
- Expect waitlists: Many sites fill by late spring or early fall. Register early, keep copies of your paperwork, and confirm your spot by email.
CCCAP for school‑age kids after school and in summer
What CCCAP can cover
- Covers licensed programs and some qualified exempt providers: Before‑ and after‑school care, school‑out days, and summer day camps when parents are working, in job search, or in approved education or training. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Counties must serve at least up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and cannot serve above 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Rules can vary by county within those bounds. Cooperation with child support is no longer required for eligibility. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Parent fees: Based on your income and household size. Use the state’s parent fee tools to estimate your monthly co‑pay. You must pay the fee each month or benefits can end. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Verification timeline: You typically have 30 days to provide written income or activity verification after applying. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Watch for freezes or waitlists: Many counties are in a freeze in 2024–2025 because of funding constraints. Counties keep lists to contact families as funding allows. (cdec.colorado.gov)
County status and contacts snapshot
Programs change often. Always confirm current status with your county.
| County | Current status | How to contact/apply |
|---|---|---|
| Denver | Enrollment freeze for new applicants effective Jan 1, 2025. Existing families keep benefits if they recertify on time. Pre‑screen questionnaire available. Processing target for Denver documents is often around two weeks for redeterminations. | Email: denverccap@denvergov.org; Info and forms on Denver CCAP page. (denvergov.org) |
| Jefferson | CCAP enrollment frozen as of Jan 1, 2025; interest questionnaire required to be notified when lifted. | Phone: 303‑271‑4484; Jeffco CCAP page and interest form. (jeffco.us) |
| Adams | Enrollment freeze started Oct 1, 2024; pre‑screening and a freeze waitlist are in place. Example maximum monthly income for waitlist eligibility, family of 3: $4,661.25. | Phone: 720‑523‑2337; email listed on site; waitlist form online. (adcogov.org) |
| El Paso | Enrollment freeze began Nov 6, 2024; applications screened and list maintained until freeze lifts. | See El Paso County DHS assistance page for CCCAP updates and forms. (elpasoco.com, humanservices.elpasoco.com) |
| Weld | Enrollment freeze began Feb 1, 2025. Weld posts detailed 2024–2025 income entries and exits—for a family of 3, entrance max 3,980.58∗∗andexitatSMI∗∗3,980.58** and exit at SMI **7,741.19. | Phone: (970) 400‑6017; email HS‑CCCAP@weld.gov; PEAK application link. (weld.gov) |
How to apply
- Online application: Apply through Colorado PEAK and your county’s CCCAP page. If your county is frozen, submit the pre‑screen or waitlist form and keep your contact info current. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Documents to prepare: Photo ID, proof of Colorado address, your child’s birth certificate or school record, 30 days of pay stubs or proof of approved activity, school schedule if in college, and the provider’s name and address. You must notify your county and be authorized before attendance to avoid paying out‑of‑pocket. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Picking a provider: Use Colorado Shines to filter for school‑age programs and those accepting CCCAP; ask providers about open seats before you finalize your application. Call the Colorado Shines referral line (877) 338‑2273 for help. (cdec.colorado.gov)
Reality check
- Expect freezes and waitlists: Even if you qualify, new enrollments may be paused. Get on the list now and set up a Plan B below.
- Costs while waiting: Some schools and nonprofits offer sliding‑scale or no‑cost care. See the “Low/no‑cost programs” section.
- Timeline expectations: Counties can move quickly when funds open, but that’s unpredictable. Keep your voicemail and email reachable and respond within 48 hours to county requests.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use grant‑funded school programs: 21st CCLC sites are no cost at participating schools.
- Enroll with low‑cost community providers: Boys & Girls Clubs, city recreation, YMCA scholarships, and district programs with FRL discounts.
- Ask your school: Many districts contract with providers and may reserve a few scholarship seats.
Low‑ or no‑cost afterschool and summer options
21st Century Community Learning Centers at schools
- What it is: The only federal grant dedicated solely to before/after‑school and summer learning; free at participating schools and community sites. Colorado’s current grant cycle funds sites through summer 2029. Ask your principal if your school has a 21st CCLC program. (cde.state.co.us, cde.state.co.us)
- How to enroll: Districts and schools handle registration. Seats fill fast and may prioritize students most in need.
- Possible funding changes to watch: National proposals have targeted this program; stay in touch with your school for any local changes. (washingtonpost.com, axios.com)
Scholars Unlimited (Metro Denver)
- Cost: No cost for K‑5 at partner schools; free snacks during school year and free breakfast, lunch, and snacks in summer. Sites in Denver, Aurora, Sheridan, and Westminster vary each year. Phone (303) 355‑0290. (scholarsunlimited.org)
- Enrollment: Rolling when space allows; summer 2025 operates June 10 – July 18 at listed sites. (scholarsunlimited.org)
Boys & Girls Clubs
- Metro Denver: 2025–26 school year charges a 25∗∗one‑timehouseholdregistrationand∗∗25** one‑time household registration and **20 per month per member; high school members free. Summer 2025 elementary registration 25∗∗;scholarshipsavailable.Morning‑careatselectAurorasites∗∗25**; scholarships available. Morning‑care at select Aurora sites **60 per month. (bgcmd.org)
- Larimer County: Beginning fall 2025, posted fees at certain sites include 15perafter‑schoolday∗∗,∗∗15 per after‑school day**, **26 per school‑out day, and a $25 per month teen rate; scholarships processed within about 72 hours once documents are submitted. (begreatlarimer.org)
- Pueblo County: Club membership open to ages 6–18, with multiple clubhouses; call (719) 564‑0055 for current fees and scholarships. (bgcpckids.org)
City and county recreation
- Denver MY Denver Card: Free access to all city recreation centers, pools, and many structured youth activities for ages 5–18; strong options after school and summer. (denvergov.org)
- Summer Rec Kidz: Free day program June 16 – August 8 for ages 8–12 at multiple recreation centers; weekly registration required; lunch and snack provided through Tasty Food. (denvergov.org)
- Youth meals: Review city postings for “Tasty Food” and the USDA Summer Meals Finder every summer. (fns.usda.gov)
District‑run or district‑partner afterschool and summer programs
| District/program | Typical daily or monthly cost | Discounts & notes | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|
| DPS Discovery Link (before/after school) | Many sites list 12AM∗∗and∗∗12 AM** and **18 PM per day; registration fee often $50; some schools grant‑funded and free | 30% FRL discount; some schools free via grants; allow up to a 2‑day processing period after registration | Family Support 720‑423‑1781; Discovery Link page |
| Cherry Creek Schools ECS | 2024–25 listed 10AM∗∗and∗∗10 AM** and **20 PM per day; 10% sibling; 25% FRL discount | Accepts CCCAP | CCSD ECS Before & After page |
| Douglas County BASE | Rates vary by school (examples: 11–11–14 before, 12.50–12.50–15 after per day; school breaks around 34–34–39 per day, plus activity fees) | Sibling discounts vary by site; CCCAP fiscal agreements available | BASE department, directory by school |
| Jeffco SAE | District‑managed at select schools; site fees vary; waitlists common | Contact site directly; district SAE phone 303‑982‑1741 | Jeffco Before & After page |
| Poudre (AlphaBEST) | 2025–26 typical after‑school 19/day∗∗,∗∗19/day**, **89/week; before‑school 13/day∗∗,∗∗13/day**, **53/week; registration 55–55–65 | FRL discounts 15–100%; sibling 10% | AlphaBEST PSD page |
Sources for table rows: (westerlycreek.dpsk12.org, denison.dpsk12.org, elcs.dpsk12.org, co50000184.schoolwires.net, rre.dcsdk12.org, dcsdk12.org, rockridgeschool.org, jeffcopublicschools.org, meiklejohn.jeffcopublicschools.org, alphabest.org)
Summer options in DPS
- Summer Academy: Full‑day elementary academics with enrichment June 9 – July 3; some communications list 5perday∗∗or∗∗5 per day** or **85 for the full program depending on site; check the DPS page for current fees and locations. (dpsk12.org, bradley.dpsk12.org)
- Discovery Link summer camps: Multiple locations; register via Arux; check camp pages for dates like June 9 – Aug 1; call 720‑423‑1781 for help. (academics.dpsk12.org, elcs.dpsk12.org)
YMCA programs
- Metro Denver: Scholarships of 25% or 50% are common; CCCAP families must apply to CCCAP first if under $20,000 annual income and show denial before YMCA scholarships are awarded; some school districts (e.g., Aurora) support reduced OST rates. (denverymca.org)
- Pikes Peak Region: 2025–26 posted monthly plans include before‑school full‑time around 192–192–232, after‑school full‑time around 384–384–424, and combined plans 540–540–580; daily “adventure day” add‑ons posted. CCCAP accepted and financial aid available. Phone 719‑329‑7289. (ppymca.org, hsd2.org)
- Northern Colorado: Examples posted for Thompson/BVSD include after‑school full‑time around 360–360–600/month and drop‑in around 18–18–23/day, with CCAP and sibling discounts. (ymcanoco.org)
Food benefits tied to afterschool and summer care
- Afterschool snacks and suppers: Schools can claim snacks under the NSLP Afterschool Snack Program; many community sites can provide meals through CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool if they operate in eligible areas. Ask your site director if your child will receive a free snack or supper. (cde.state.co.us, cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Summer meals: Use the USDA Summer Meals Finder for free sites statewide; data updates weekly during summer. (fns.usda.gov)
- Summer EBT 2025: Colorado issues $120 per eligible child in a lump sum to help cover food when school is out; most families are enrolled automatically through school meal status, SNAP, Colorado Works, or income‑qualifying Medicaid. If you didn’t get a card, contact the Summer EBT Support Center (800) 536‑5298 or apply via PEAK. Benefits generally expire Aug 31 unless CDHS provides guidance; watch CDHS notices for deadlines. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Finding licensed afterschool and summer programs fast
- Colorado Shines search: Filter for school‑age programs, hours, quality ratings, and “accepts CCCAP.” Call the Colorado Shines referral line (877) 338‑2273 for help comparing providers. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Denver Afterschool Alliance Youth Program Locator: Search citywide afterschool and summer programs. Use when Discovery Link is full or you need enrichment. (denvergov.org)
- Colorado Afterschool Partnership map: A developing statewide map of OST providers and gaps. (coloradoafterschoolpartnership.org)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Need | Best first step | Backups |
|---|---|---|
| Subsidy for afterschool or camp | Apply for CCCAP on PEAK; call your county to ask about freeze status | Boys & Girls Clubs, 21st CCLC, school programs with FRL discounts, YMCA scholarships |
| Free or low cost in Denver | Discovery Link grant‑funded sites, MY Denver Card, Summer Rec Kidz | Boys & Girls Clubs, Scholars Unlimited |
| Summer meals | Use USDA Summer Meals Finder and confirm hours | Check school communications and city pages weekly |
| If you have SNAP or free/reduced meals | Expect Summer EBT $120/child; confirm address | Call (800) 536‑5298 if no card arrives |
| Find licensed care | Use Colorado Shines; call (877) 338‑2273 for a referral | Dial 2‑1‑1 for a live navigator |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not getting county authorization before care starts: You could be billed the full rate. Always call your county and get CCCAP authorization on file before first day. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Missing documentation deadlines: CCCAP gives you 30 days to submit verification. Set phone reminders and upload early. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Assuming your child’s school has open seats: District programs fill and run waitlists; register on opening day and follow directions for deposits or forms. (elcs.dpsk12.org)
- Skipping free meal resources: Even if your program doesn’t serve supper, summer meal sites are free for anyone 18 and under. (fns.usda.gov)
Application checklist
- Photo ID and proof of residency: Current lease, utility bill, or mail.
- Proof of income/activity: 30 days of pay stubs or school/training schedule; job search documentation if applicable. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Child documents: Birth certificate or school record; immunizations if required by the site.
- Provider details: Name, address, phone, and whether licensed; request that your county establish a fiscal agreement before the start date. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Backup plan: A second program identified in case your first pick is full or your county is frozen.
Real‑world examples and costs
- DPS Discovery Link daily fees: Many sites list 12AM∗∗and∗∗12 AM** and **18 PM per day, with a 30% FRL discount and some grant‑funded sites free. Register early; processing can take up to 2 days before attendance. (westerlycreek.dpsk12.org, denison.dpsk12.org)
- Cherry Creek ECS: 2024–25 rates of 10AM∗∗and∗∗10 AM** and **20 PM with 25% FRL discount and 10% sibling discount; accepts CCCAP. (co50000184.schoolwires.net)
- Douglas County BASE: Example school rates 11–11–14 before and 12.50–12.50–15 after per day; break days 34–34–39 plus field trip fees. (rre.dcsdk12.org, rockridgeschool.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver: Starting Aug 2025, 25∗∗householdregistration,∗∗25** household registration, **20/month per member, and high school programs free; scholarships available. (bgcmd.org)
- YMCA Pikes Peak: 2025–26 after‑school full‑time plan about 384–384–424/month; combined plans about 540–540–580/month; CCCAP accepted. (ppymca.org)
Food and nutrition add‑ons that help stretch your budget
- Afterschool snacks and suppers at schools: Ask if your site participates in NSLP Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk; many do. (cde.state.co.us, cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Summer EBT 2025 details: One‑time $120 per eligible child; many kids are auto‑enrolled based on school meal status or other benefits; call (800) 536‑5298 if you didn’t receive benefits or need a card replacement. Benefits generally expire around Aug 31. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Resources by region with direct contacts
Denver Metro
- Denver CCAP: Enrollment freeze; email denverccap@denvergov.org; see Denver CCAP page for forms and drop‑off locations. (denvergov.org)
- Discovery Link family support: 720‑423‑1781; summer and school‑year registration on the Discovery Link pages. (elcs.dpsk12.org)
- MY Denver Card and Summer Rec Kidz: Free activities and camps for youth; see MY Denver Card and Summer Rec Kidz pages. (denvergov.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver: Fees and scholarships; program pages list 2025–26 rates. (bgcmd.org)
- Scholars Unlimited: No‑cost K‑5 afterschool and summer; phone (303) 355‑0290. (scholarsunlimited.org)
Northern Colorado
- Poudre/AlphaBEST: See 2025–26 rates by day; register online. (alphabest.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County: After‑school 15/day∗∗atsomesitesandteenmonthly∗∗15/day** at some sites and teen monthly **25; scholarships available. (begreatlarimer.org)
- Colorado State University Youth Sport Camps After School: $18/day first child; sliding lower for siblings; Fort Collins campus. (chhs.colostate.edu)
Southern Colorado
- El Paso County CCCAP: Enrollment freeze; see DHS assistance page for updates and pre‑eligibility screening. (humanservices.elpasoco.com)
- YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region: OST plans about 192–192–232 before‑school and 384–384–424 after‑school per month; phone 719‑329‑7289. (ppymca.org)
Western Slope and rural
- Western Colorado 211: Call (888) 217‑1215 for local referrals if programs are scarce. Use Colorado Shines to locate licensed providers; ask about transportation. (211colorado.org)
Diverse communities and targeted supports
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask programs about inclusive policies and staff training. For city‑run programs and Boys & Girls Clubs, request their non‑discrimination statements and safe‑space practices before enrolling. Tip: Choose programs with written anti‑bullying policies and staff training refreshers every 12 months.
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations, medication forms, and inclusive activity plans. DPS Discovery Link, YMCA, and many city programs have processes for 504/IEP needs—bring documentation at registration so supports start on day one. Plan B: If a program can’t staff a 1:1 aide, ask your district’s special education office for Extended School Year or 21st CCLC options. (elcs.dpsk12.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Many Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs offer military discounts; confirm available percentages and bring military ID. (alphabest.org)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Your child can access most school‑based and nonprofit programs regardless of immigration status. For food resources in 150+ languages, call Hunger Free Colorado (855) 855‑4626. (raisingcoloradokids.com)
- Tribal citizens: Ask schools about 21st CCLC and tutoring partnerships. Colorado Afterschool Partnership maintains a statewide map that can highlight rural and tribal‑adjacent program gaps and options. (coloradoafterschoolpartnership.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Start with Colorado Shines for licensed homes and small centers, then ask your district about transportation or homework clubs tied to school. Use USDA Summer Meals Finder for the nearest food sites and contact your county extension office for 4‑H day camps. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above are available regardless of gender. If applying to CCCAP, list all caregivers in the household to ensure the right authorized schedules. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Language access: Ask for translated forms and interpreters when registering. Public schools and state‑funded programs must provide language access at no cost. Use 2‑1‑1 for multilingual phone help. (unitedwaydenver.org)
Program comparison table
| Program | Cost to family | Who it serves | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCCAP subsidy | Parent fee varies by income; cannot serve above 85% SMI | Families working, job‑seeking, or in training; children to age 13 | Apply via PEAK and county CCCAP page; check freeze status |
| 21st CCLC | Free | Students at participating schools; families invited to events | Ask your principal; space limited |
| Boys & Girls Clubs (Metro Denver) | 25∗∗householdregistration;∗∗25** household registration; **20/month per child; HS free | K‑12, multiple club sites | Register online; scholarships available |
| DPS Discovery Link | Many sites 12AM∗∗and∗∗12 AM** and **18 PM per day; FRL 30% off; some sites free | K‑5, selected ECE and middle school sites | Register via Arux; allow 2 days for processing |
| YMCA OST (Pikes Peak) | From about 192–192–232 before‑school and 384–384–424 after‑school per month | K‑5 at partner schools | Register online; CCCAP slots limited; apply early |
Sources for table data: (cdec.colorado.gov, cde.state.co.us, bgcmd.org, westerlycreek.dpsk12.org, ppymca.org)
Key dates and seasonal deadlines to watch
- DPS Summer Academy registration: Opens around early March and closes in April; program typically runs June 9 – July 3. Seats limited and not guaranteed. (dpsk12.org)
- Denver Parks & Recreation Summer Rec Kidz registration: Weekly registration opens in late winter; program runs June 16 – Aug 8. (denvergov.org)
- Summer EBT benefits: Colorado issues $120 per eligible child beginning in late spring; cards should arrive by early summer. Unused benefits may expire around Aug 31—watch CDHS updates. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Step‑by‑step: fastest path to care
- Check your county CCCAP status: If open, apply immediately. If frozen, submit the interest or waitlist form and ask when they’ll recheck your file. (jeffco.us, adcogov.org)
- Reserve a seat now: Register with your school’s program or Boys & Girls Clubs while CCCAP processes. Bring your FRL letter to request discounts where applicable. (denison.dpsk12.org)
- Confirm meals: Ask if your program provides an afterschool snack or supper and which days. If not, add a Summer Meals site to your pickup plan. (cde.state.co.us)
- Set reminders: Add alerts for recertification dates, tuition due dates, and Summer EBT card usage deadlines. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
Plan B options if a program is full
- Try neighboring schools or club sites: Many programs accept students from nearby schools if parents can arrange transport.
- Use city recreation and library programs: MY Denver Card offers structured activities after school and on weekends; libraries host homework help and maker spaces. (denvergov.org)
- Ask about partial weeks: Some YMCAs and district programs allow part‑time or drop‑in blocks, especially on early release or late start days. (ymcanoco.org)
Ten Colorado‑specific FAQs
- How long does Denver CCAP take to process paperwork: Denver posts a target of about 15 days for applications and redeterminations once complete. Always respond quickly to verification requests. (denvergov.org)
- What income counts for CCCAP: Gross income before taxes for all household members; counties must serve up to 185% FPL and below 85% SMI. Check your county’s chart for exact entry/exit levels. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Can CCCAP help with summer camps: Yes, if the camp is licensed or a qualified exempt provider with a county fiscal agreement. Work with your county well before the first camp week to set up authorization. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Do school programs offer discounts if I’m on Free/Reduced Lunch: DPS Discovery Link offers a 30% discount with an FRL authorization letter; Cherry Creek ECS lists 25% off for FRL. (denison.dpsk12.org, co50000184.schoolwires.net)
- Are Boys & Girls Clubs really that low cost: In Metro Denver, the 2025–26 school year charges 25∗∗perhouseholdtoregisterand∗∗25** per household to register and **20/month per member for K–8; high schoolers are free. Scholarships are available. (bgcmd.org)
- Where can my child get free meals after school or in summer: Ask your school about Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk; use USDA’s Summer Meals Finder in summer. (cde.state.co.us, fns.usda.gov)
- What is Summer EBT: A new permanent program that issues $120 per eligible child each summer in Colorado. Many students are auto‑enrolled; apply on PEAK if not. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- My county is frozen—do any counties still accept new CCCAP applications: Many Front Range counties are frozen in 2024–2025; submit your county’s interest form so you’re contacted if money opens. Use the alternatives listed here right away. (jeffco.us, adcogov.org, elpasoco.com)
- How do I find licensed care that takes CCCAP near me: Search Colorado Shines and call the referral line (877) 338‑2273. They can filter for CCCAP, hours, and openings. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- Where do I get one‑on‑one help comparing programs: Dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489; ask for childcare referrals and help with applications. (211colorado.org)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
How we work: We rely on official sources—Colorado Department of Early Childhood, Colorado Department of Education, CDPHE, CDHS, school district pages, and established nonprofits like Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA. We verify application rules, income limits, fees, and phone numbers at publication and cite them so you can click straight to the source.
Our approach: We focus on plain‑English steps, real numbers, and direct contacts. We cross‑check rules across state and county sites, test links, archive sources, and track changes so you can act fast.
Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org
Disclaimer
Program information changes fast: Fees, income limits, freezes, and locations can change mid‑year. Always confirm details with the program or agency before you enroll or pay.
Security note: For your privacy, do not email full Social Security numbers or bank details to providers. Use official portals or deliver documents in person when possible.
Editorial standards: This guide follows our published Editorial Policy with primary‑source links, cross‑verification, and prompt correction of verified errors. See our full standards here. (denvergov.org)
Sources
- Colorado CCCAP and child care search: Colorado Department of Early Childhood—CCCAP for Families; Find Child Care; Contact lines and referral numbers. (cdec.colorado.gov)
- County freezes and income charts: Denver CCAP; Jefferson CCAP; Adams CCAP; Weld CCCAP; El Paso County DHS. (denvergov.org, jeffco.us, adcogov.org, weld.gov, humanservices.elpasoco.com)
- School‑based OST: DPS Discovery Link; Cherry Creek ECS; Douglas County BASE; Jeffco SAE; AlphaBEST Poudre; DPS Summer Academy and summer pages. (elcs.dpsk12.org, westerlycreek.dpsk12.org, co50000184.schoolwires.net, dcsdk12.org, jeffcopublicschools.org, alphabest.org, dpsk12.org, academics.dpsk12.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs: Metro Denver fee pages; Pueblo County sites; Larimer County site fees/scholarships. (bgcmd.org, bgcpckids.org, begreatlarimer.org)
- YMCA: YMCA of Metro Denver scholarships and CCCAP guidance; YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region rates; YMCA of Northern Colorado/BVSD/Thompson pages. (denverymca.org, ppymca.org, ymcanoco.org)
- Food programs: USDA Summer Meals Finder; CDE Afterschool Snack Program; CDPHE CACFP information. (fns.usda.gov, cde.state.co.us, cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Summer EBT Colorado: CDHS Summer EBT program pages and press releases. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
- Locators and navigators: Denver Afterschool Alliance; Colorado Afterschool Partnership map; 211 Colorado. (denvergov.org, coloradoafterschoolpartnership.org, 211colorado.org)
- Denver youth rec: MY Denver Card; Summer Rec Kidz. (denvergov.org)
If you need help prioritizing or want me to call out the three fastest options for your ZIP code, tell me your county and school, and I’ll tailor a step‑by‑step plan with the exact links and phone numbers.
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- 🎒 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
