Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Delaware

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• Emergency child care within 24–72 hours: Call Delaware 211 at 2‑1‑1 for referral help and to locate licensed afterschool or camp openings near you. You can also text your ZIP code to 898‑211 for chat support.
• Apply for Delaware child care subsidy (Purchase of Care): Use Delaware ASSIST to apply online and select Child Care Services. For live help, call the Division of Social Services at 1‑866‑843‑7212 or your local office. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
• Find free or low‑cost afterschool at your school: Check the Delaware 21st Century Community Learning Centers page for participating schools or call the state contact at 302‑857‑3349. (education.delaware.gov)
• Summer food and grocery help for kids: Use USDA Summer Meals Site Finder for free summer meal sites and read Delaware’s SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) details. Most children who qualify receive $120 per summer in 2025. See Delaware’s program page and the 2025 USDA benefit notice. (dhss.delaware.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Talk to a person who can search openings with you: Children & Families First’s AccessCare helps families find licensed afterschool and camps statewide at 1‑800‑734‑2388. (cffde.org)

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Emergency Options at the Top

• If school closed early and you must work: Call your local YMCA branch or Boys & Girls Club to ask about “School’s Out” or drop‑in days. Examples: Western Family YMCA School‑Is‑Out is $50–$65/day for enrolled families; Brandywine YMCA lists $50/day for Kid’s Club. Confirm space before arriving. (ymcade.org)
• If food is the immediate issue: Use Wilmington’s city meal schedule for parks and pools or the USDA finder. The City of Wilmington’s 2025 schedule lists daily free breakfast/lunch at multiple park sites and a direct contact 302‑576‑3835. (wilmingtonde.gov)
• If you need child care this week and cost is the barrier: Apply for Purchase of Care now and ask DSS for “presumptive child care” while you finish verifications. State rules allow a limited one‑to‑two‑month presumptive period if you’ve applied but are waiting on verification. (regulations.delaware.gov)

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Why This Guide Is Different

What you get here: exact Delaware rules, current dollar amounts, phone numbers, realistic timelines, and back‑up plans if Plan A falls through. We reviewed the most visible pages and common lists online and found missing pieces single moms told us they need most—specific fees, income limits, copay rules, who to call, and what to do when sites are full. We filled those gaps using only official sources and established nonprofits and linked you straight to the right pages.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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How to Pay Less or Nothing Out‑of‑Pocket

Purchase of Care (POC) — Delaware’s Child Care Subsidy

What it is: State subsidy that pays licensed providers for your child’s before/after‑school and summer care. You may have a monthly copay based on income. Copays are waived at ≤150% FPL; above that, copays are capped at 7% of gross income up to 215% FPL at redetermination. Maximum income at application is 185% FPL. Families become ineligible if income exceeds 85% of State Median Income (SMI). (dhss.delaware.gov)

Most important first step: Apply now on Delaware ASSIST and upload your documents as you get them. If you’re missing a pay stub, still submit—state policy allows “presumptive” child care for a short period while you finish verifications. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)

Key 2024–2025 income thresholds and copay rules:

• Initial eligibility: at or below 185% FPL.
• Copay waived: at or below 150% FPL.
• Copay amount when applicable: capped at 7% of gross income from 150%–215% FPL.
• Graduated phase‑out: benefits can continue for 12 months if income is 185%–200% FPL at redetermination.
• Closure threshold: over 85% SMI. (dhss.delaware.gov)

POC Income Reference Table

Source: Delaware DSS POC 2024–2025 fee scale. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What POC Pays Providers for School‑Age Care (you’ll still owe your copay if any)

Source: Delaware POC provider rates effective July 1, 2024 (FY 2025). (dhss.delaware.gov)

How to Apply in 5 Fast Steps

• Create an ASSIST account: Use Delaware ASSIST.
• Upload documents: Last 30 days of pay stubs or new job offer letter; school/training schedule if applicable; child’s birth certificate; proof of Delaware residency; provider selection (you can change later).
• Complete interview: DSS must interview you and process the signed application within two business days and gives you up to 30 days to submit all verifications. If you finish after 30 days but before 60, benefits start the day you finish. After 60 days, you must reapply. (regulations.delaware.gov, law.cornell.edu)
• Pick a licensed provider: Search the state database or call AccessCare at 1‑800‑734‑2388 for help finding openings that accept POC. (education.delaware.gov, cffde.org)
• Confirm start date and copay: DSS will send your approval, your monthly copay, and your authorization dates. (law.cornell.edu)

Typical timeline reality check: Many moms report about 1–3 weeks if documents are ready and a provider is selected quickly. State policy gives you 30 days to complete verifications; don’t wait—upload as you get them. (law.cornell.edu)

Common obstacles: missing income proofs, not listing all adults in the household, provider has no POC slots left, or hours of care requested don’t match your work/school schedule.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for presumptive child care if you applied but still need to submit something. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• Call multiple providers and ask to be put on cancellation lists; check nearby YMCA/Boys & Girls Clubs or community centers that accept POC. (ymcade.org, bgclubs.org)
• Ask your school counselor whether a 21st CCLC program at your school has space; those programs are federally funded and often free to families at participating schools. (education.delaware.gov)

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Free or Low‑Cost Afterschool at Your Child’s School

Delaware 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

What it offers: After‑school and summer academic support, tutoring, arts, sports, STEM, and family engagement at eligible schools across Delaware. Programs are federally funded and run by districts or community partners like Boys & Girls Clubs and United Way. Serving ~3,000 students statewide across 30+ schools. (education.delaware.gov)

How to find a site and enroll fast:

• Check the state’s 21st CCLC page for the current list of schools and the site contact. Call 302‑857‑3349 if you can’t find your school. (education.delaware.gov)
• Ask your principal or school counselor whether your school has a 21st CCLC program and how to sign up. For example, Capital School District lists direct site contacts and phone numbers for its 21st CCLC schools. (capital.k12.de.us)

Cost reality: Programs are federally funded and targeted to high‑need schools. Many sites are free to participating families; if a site charges a nominal fee, it must offer scholarships and not turn students away for inability to pay. Confirm details with your site. (nys21cclc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school isn’t on the list or is full, ask for referrals to community partners that run afterschool at nearby schools, and check YMCA/Boys & Girls Clubs locations that bus from your school. (ymcade.org)

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Meal Support Connected to Afterschool & Summer

At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP)

What it is: Free afterschool snack or supper served at eligible programs in low‑income areas. You don’t apply separately—your child receives the meal at the participating program. Delaware’s Department of Education administers CACFP. (education.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your site if they participate in CACFP or check the program through DDOE Nutrition Programs. If not available, pack a snack or ask the site about alternatives and local food pantries (Delaware 211 can refer).

Summer Meals & SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)

• Free meals at parks, libraries, schools: Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder during the season. Wilmington posts a park meal schedule with phone 302‑576‑3835 for questions. (fns.usda.gov, wilmingtonde.gov)
• SUN Bucks amount in 2025: Families receive $40/monthperchild\ast \ast forthreemonths(\ast \ast$120 total) in the 48 states, including Delaware; amounts are set by USDA annually. (fns.usda.gov)
• Delaware program info and who gets benefits automatically: See the state’s Summer EBT page for eligibility (many children are auto‑issued based on SNAP/TANF/Medicaid or school meal status). (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If benefits didn’t arrive but you think your child is eligible, call the Summer EBT Call Center at 1‑866‑843‑7212 or apply on ASSIST when applications open. Use free summer meal sites meanwhile. (dhss.delaware.gov)

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Reliable Providers Many Delaware Moms Use

YMCA of Delaware (Before/After School, “School’s Out,” Camps)

• Monthly fees vary by branch and membership; all accept POC. Examples for 2025–2026: Walnut Street Y after care $360/month\ast \ast non‑member;WesternYaftercare\ast \ast$550/month non‑member; Sussex Y after care $280/month\ast \ast ;MiddletownYaftercare\ast \ast$535/month community member. Always confirm current rates and bus service. (ymcade.org)
• What to ask: do they bus from your school, do they have POC slots, and whether there’s a waitlist.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the branch to place you on cancellation lists and call nearby branches. Request a short‑term “School’s Out” day to cover immediate days off. (ymcade.org)

Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware

• **POC accepted statewide; annual youth membership often $15\ast \ast .\ast \ast Feesvarybylocationandsomeschool‑siteprogramspublishclearrates(forexample,CapeHenlopenschoolslistmonthlyrateslikebeforecare\ast \ast$260, after care $240\ast \ast ,combined\ast \ast$360). (bgclubs.org, capehenlopenschools.com)
• Contact your local Club directly for current rates and to confirm POC slots.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for scholarship information at your Club and check whether your school has a 21st CCLC program led by Boys & Girls Clubs. (education.delaware.gov)

Police Athletic League of Wilmington (PALW)

• Afterschool and summer camp with transparent pricing: Out‑of‑School Time weekly rates currently list before care $50/week\ast \ast ,aftercare\ast \ast$75/week, combined $120/week\ast \ast ;summerdaycamp\ast \ast$155/week; open recreation and meals are free. Call 302‑764‑6170. (palw.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about waitlists, open recreation hours, and whether they can refer you to a partner site for the interim.

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Local Government & Community Camps (Good for Summer)

• City of Wilmington: Free residential “Camp Barnes” sessions for ages 8–12 and daily free meals in parks. See the city’s Camp Barnes info and 2025 summer food schedule for sites and hours, or call Parks & Recreation at 311 or 302‑576‑2620 from outside the city. (wilmingtonde.gov)
• New Castle County Camps: Full‑day recreation camps around $140/week\ast \ast with\ast \ast$40/week extended care, plus half‑day sports camps. Call 302‑395‑5890. (newcastlede.gov)
• City of Dover Parks & Recreation: Super Summer Playground camps list $125/week\ast \ast and“CampSmallWonder”summeratTownePointElementaryposts\ast \ast$675 for the season; verify current session availability and hours. Call 302‑674‑7541. (cityofdover.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city/county recreation office about fee waivers, scholarships, or prorated weeks, and pair with Summer EBT and free meal sites.

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Find and Vet Licensed Afterschool Programs

Where to search: Use the state’s Search for Licensed Child Care to see school‑age centers, violations, complaints, and enforcement actions for the past five years. For questions or a deeper file review, contact OCCL—302‑892‑5800 (New Castle) or 302‑739‑5487 (Kent & Sussex). (education.delaware.gov)

Tip: Children & Families First’s AccessCare can produce a custom list by phone at 1‑800‑734‑2388 and includes programs that accept POC. (cffde.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask OCCL for help interpreting a provider’s compliance history and request a file review if you need more detail.

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Inclusive programs to look for: YMCA branches and Boys & Girls Clubs with explicit nondiscrimination policies. Action: Ask sites about safe‑space training for staff and bathroom/locker policies. Where to call: Branch front desks and OCCL if you have a concern—302‑892‑5800 / 302‑739‑5487. (education.delaware.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Important note: POC has enhanced reimbursement for special‑needs school‑age care (e.g., center part‑time $28.35/day\ast \ast ,full‑time\ast \ast$39.90/day). Action: Ask your provider if they can meet your child’s needs and list those needs in the POC application using medical verification. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Where to start: Local YMCA often offers military membership discounts; ask your VA social worker for childcare referrals and confirm POC eligibility via ASSIST.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Key point: Summer EBT eligibility does not require U.S. citizenship, and applying does not affect immigration status. Action: For Spanish support, contact the Latin American Community Center at 302‑655‑7338; sliding‑fee school‑age programs accept POC. (dhss.delaware.gov, thelatincenter.org)
• Tribal citizens: Action: If you moved to Delaware from a state with tribal childcare, you can still apply for POC here; also ask sites about scholarship policies.
• Rural single moms with limited access: Action: Use USDA site finder filters and ask about “Meals To‑Go” availability in rural areas; some libraries coordinate transport for programs. (fns.usda.gov)
• Single fathers: Note: All programs here are open to any eligible caregiver—dads can apply for POC and enroll in the same afterschool programs listed.
• Language access: Action: Ask DSS for interpreter services for your POC interview and request translated forms; libraries can assist with translation and online applications.

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Real‑World Program Examples With Prices

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Resources by Region

• New Castle County: Wilmington Parks & Recreation (meals, camps), YMCA branches (Brandywine, Western, Walnut), Boys & Girls Clubs (Claymont, H. Fletcher Brown), PALW. Wilmington meal schedule lists site times and a contact at 302‑576‑3835. (wilmingtonde.gov)
• Kent County: Dover YMCA and City of Dover camps; Capital School District 21st CCLC at multiple schools with public site contacts. Parks & Rec main line 302‑674‑7541. (ymcade.org, capital.k12.de.us, cityofdover.com)
• Sussex County: Sussex Family YMCA (Lewes/Georgetown/Long Neck bussing), Boys & Girls Clubs school‑site programs in Cape Henlopen and Indian River districts, and 4‑H State Camp at Camp Barnes in Frankford (seasonal). (ymcade.org, education.delaware.gov, sites.udel.edu)

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Application Checklist

• Proof of income: Last 30 days of pay stubs or offer letter; any unearned income letters. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• Proof of activity: Work schedule; school/training schedule; TANF/Employment & Training participation if applicable. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• Child info: Birth certificate; immunizations (often requested by providers); any IEP/medical forms for special needs (Form 611). (dhss.delaware.gov)
• ID and address: Photo ID; lease or utility bill.
• Provider selection: Name/site and start date (you can switch later).

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to pick a provider: POC needs a selected provider to authorize care—call around before or while you apply.
• Under‑requesting hours: Request the hours you truly need, including commute time and school closures, so authorizations cover you.
• Missing documentation window: You have 30 days to finish verifications or you risk losing the application date. (law.cornell.edu)
• Assuming school‑based afterschool is always free: Many 21st CCLC sites are free, but some sites may charge nominal fees with scholarships. Ask directly. (nys21cclc.org)

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Realistic Timelines

• POC decision: Interview within 2 business days; you have 30 days to supply documents; benefits can start from the application date if you finish on time. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• 21st CCLC enrollment: Many schools enroll at the start of the year and again mid‑year as slots open. Call the site coordinator listed for your school to check availability. (capital.k12.de.us)
• Summer EBT/SUN Bucks: Benefits are typically issued once during summer; Delaware’s rollout dates are posted on the DSS page each year. In 2025, total benefit remains $120 per eligible child. (fns.usda.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Finding a Spot This Month

• Start with your child’s school: Ask if they run 21st CCLC or a PTA‑supported program and request the site coordinator’s phone/email. (education.delaware.gov)
• Call two community providers that serve your school: YMCA branch and Boys & Girls Club nearest to you—ask about bussing, openings, and POC slots. (ymcade.org, bgclubs.org)
• Submit your POC application same day: If eligible by income and need, apply and complete your interview; ask about presumptive child care to bridge the gap. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• If food is tight now: Use Wilmington’s posted meal schedule or the USDA finder to pick up free meals this week. (wilmingtonde.gov, fns.usda.gov)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Delaware‑Specific)

• What income qualifies my family for POC: At application, up to 185% FPL for your household size; copays are waived at ≤150% FPL and otherwise capped at 7% of income up to 215% FPL at redetermination. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• How quickly will POC start: If you complete your interview and provide documents within 30 days, eligibility can be effective from your application date; presumptive child care may open earlier while you finish verification. (regulations.delaware.gov)
• Does 21st CCLC offer transportation: Many programs meet on‑site at the school; if not, ask about bussing. Program details vary—contact your school’s site. (education.delaware.gov)
• Are school‑based afterschool programs free: Many are free at 21st CCLC sites serving high‑poverty schools; if any fee exists, scholarship policies must ensure access regardless of ability to pay. Confirm with your site. (nys21cclc.org)
• Can I combine POC with YMCA or Boys & Girls Clubs: Yes—both accept POC; you may still owe a monthly copay if your income is above 150% FPL. (ymcade.org, bgclubs.org, dhss.delaware.gov)
• What are typical YMCA prices if I don’t have POC: Branches publish rates; examples include after care $280–$550/month depending on location and membership. (ymcade.org)
• Where can I check if a provider is licensed and in good standing: Use the Search for Licensed Child Care database and read the 5‑year compliance history. (education.delaware.gov)
• Is there help with snacks or dinner after school: Many afterschool programs provide free snack or supper through CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals in eligible areas. Ask your site. (education.delaware.gov)
• How much is Summer EBT in 2025: $120 per eligible child across the summer in Delaware. (fns.usda.gov)
• Who can help me find openings fast: Call 1‑800‑734‑2388 (AccessCare) for statewide referrals, or ask your school office for 21st CCLC contacts. (cffde.org, education.delaware.gov)

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What Top Search Results Miss—and How This Guide Fills the Gaps

Most pages list programs but not the money details: We include the actual POC income limits, copay rules, and provider rates, plus YMCA/Boys & Girls Club prices you can use to budget today. We also added phone numbers, site lists, and exact contacts so you’re not stuck calling general lines. Sources are official state departments, school districts, and established nonprofits, all verified in 2025. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, ymcade.org, capehenlopenschools.com)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

What we did: We used only official Delaware and federal sources and established nonprofits to verify income limits, copays, provider rates, summer meal schedules, and program contacts. We link directly to state pages, school districts, and major providers so you can act quickly.

Our standards: This guide follows our Editorial Standards including primary source verification, link testing, and prompt corrections when policies change.

Verification cadence: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Corrections contact: Email info@asinglemother.org with updates or errors; we respond within 48–72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Important note: Program rules, benefit amounts, rates, and schedules change. Always verify details with the relevant agency or provider before you decide. This guide is independent, not legal advice, and not affiliated with any government entity. We take security seriously and routinely test our pages and links, but always use caution when sharing personal information online or by phone.

If you spot outdated info: Please email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.

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What to Do If None of This Works

• Use Delaware 211: Dial 2‑1‑1 for customized help across food, housing, and child care.
• Ask your school: School social workers often know last‑minute solutions and can connect you to 21st CCLC or district‑partner programs.
• Escalate to OCCL: If you are concerned about provider safety or licensing, call 302‑892‑5800 (NCC) or 302‑739‑5487 (Kent/Sussex). (education.delaware.gov)
• Re‑apply or update ASSIST: If your POC application timed out or your hours changed, log back into ASSIST to report changes. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)

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Sources Used

• Delaware POC income limits, copays, provider rates — Delaware DHSS Division of Social Services pages and FY2025 rate chart. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• POC processing timelines and presumptive care — Delaware regulations and DSS policy. (regulations.delaware.gov, law.cornell.edu)
• 21st CCLC Delaware program and school lists — Delaware Department of Education. (education.delaware.gov)
• YMCA rates and POC acceptance — YMCA of Delaware branch pages. (ymcade.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs Delaware info and local school‑site rates. (bgclubs.org, capehenlopenschools.com)
• PAL of Wilmington rates and programs. (palw.org)
• CACFP and At‑Risk Afterschool — DDOE and USDA CACFP resources. (education.delaware.gov)
• Summer EBT 2025 amounts — USDA 2025 benefit notice; Delaware DSS program page. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• Wilmington Summer Food schedule — City of Wilmington PDF. (wilmingtonde.gov)

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What to do if this doesn’t work

If you still can’t secure safe afterschool or summer care after trying the options above, email us at info@asinglemother.org with your ZIP code, child’s age(s), and your school/district. We’ll review new or local resources and update this page within 48 hours when verified.

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🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware

• 📋 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