Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Georgia
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Georgia
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- Apply for child care help now (CAPS): Start your application online and check income limits and fees. If you already have a provider, tell them you’re applying so they hold your child’s spot. How to apply online: Georgia CAPS application portal (official). Family helpline: 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS and 1‑888‑442‑7735. (decal.ga.gov)
- Find free afterschool/summer programs at schools (21st CCLC): Many sites are no‑cost for families. State contact: (404) 695‑1883 (GaDOE 21st CCLC). See “Current Subgrantees” and parent info on the GaDOE site. (gadoe.org)
- Free summer and afterschool meals (Happy Helpings/SFSP and CACFP snacks): Search by ZIP, or text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744. Help line: 855‑550‑7377. Search tool: DECAL Nutrition Program Search. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com)
- Can’t find a program in your area: Use the statewide map to search for afterschool or summer programs (GSAN). Phone: 404‑521‑0355. Find programs: Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network map. (afterschoolga.org)
- General help connecting to local resources: Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898211 to reach United Way. Metro Atlanta also answers at (404) 614‑1000. (unitedwayatlanta.org, 211online.unitedwayatlanta.org)
- Crisis or domestic violence safety: Call 911 for immediate danger. For mental health crises, call or text 988 for 24/7 support. Learn more at the 988 Lifeline. (suicidepreventionlifeline.org)
Emergency First Steps
- If your child needs a safe place after school this week: Call your school to ask if they host a 21st Century Community Learning Center site and if space is open. If not, ask for the district’s 21st CCLC coordinator. State program line: (404) 695‑1883 (GaDOE). (gadoe.org)
- If food is the immediate need: Use the DECAL meal locator to find a free meal site today or text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744. If you cannot reach a site, dial 211 for local pantries. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com, unitedwayatlanta.org)
- If you just started a new job/schedule and need coverage quickly: Apply for CAPS now and upload income and activity proofs. You can get a scholarship for before/after school and for full‑day care on school breaks; your provider must be CAPS‑eligible. Apply: How to Apply for CAPS. (decal.ga.gov)
How Georgia Pays for Afterschool and Summer Care — Where to Start
- Best first step for most working or student moms: CAPS (Childcare and Parent Services) helps pay licensed child care and school‑age programs before/after school and during breaks. Families must meet income rules and an approved activity (work, school, job search in certain priority groups). Hotlines: 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS and 1‑888‑442‑7735. (decal.ga.gov)
- Free school‑based options: Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) offer free afterschool and summer learning at many schools and community sites statewide. Program office: (404) 695‑1883; check GaDOE “Current Subgrantees” to find sites. (gadoe.org)
- State grants that fund local afterschool providers: DFCS Afterschool Care Program (TANF‑funded) gives grants to organizations serving lower‑income communities; ask your school, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, or local nonprofit if they receive this funding and if they have slots. Program email: [email protected]; phone: (404) 657‑4651. (dfcs.georgia.gov)
- No‑cost meals when school is out: Happy Helpings (Georgia’s SFSP) runs summer meal sites; many afterschool sites also serve free snacks/suppers through CACFP. Use DECAL’s search or text “Summer Meals.” Family line: 855‑550‑7377. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com)
- If these don’t fit: Search the GSAN statewide map and call 211 to get local options, sliding‑scale programs, and scholarship leads in your county. (afterschoolga.org, unitedwayatlanta.org)
Quick Reference Table — Programs at a Glance
| Program | Who It Helps | Typical Family Cost | How to Apply/Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAPS child care scholarships | Working or student parents who meet income/activity rules, children up to age 12 (up to 17 with qualifying disability) | Weekly family fee based on income; CAPS pays the provider up to state max rates; you pay any difference plus your fee | Apply online; call 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS or 1‑888‑442‑7735 for help; see eligibility and documents on DECAL sites. (decal.ga.gov) |
| 21st CCLC | K‑12 students at eligible schools; free academic/enrichment afterschool and summer | Free | Ask your school/district or call GaDOE (404) 695‑1883; see “Current Subgrantees.” (gadoe.org) |
| DFCS Afterschool Care Program grantees | Community programs serving low‑to‑moderate income neighborhoods | Often low‑ or no‑cost if funded; ask the site | Email DFCS or call (404) 657‑4651 to ask about funded sites near you. (dfcs.georgia.gov) |
| Happy Helpings (SFSP) | All kids and teens at open sites; no ID required | Free meals | Search DECAL Nutrition; text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744; call 855‑550‑7377. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com) |
| YMCA/Boys & Girls Clubs | School‑age programs and camps; many offer scholarships; Y accepts CAPS | Reduced fees or scholarships; some Clubs very low cost | Y financial aid: (404) 267‑5353; BGCMA main: 404‑527‑7100; check local branch/club. (ymcaatlanta.org, ymca-atlanta-production.oneeach.net, bgcma.org) |
CAPS: The State’s Child Care Scholarship for Before/After School and Summer
Start here: Apply for CAPS as soon as you know you need coverage. You can choose any CAPS‑eligible provider that offers school‑age care (before/after school, full‑day on break weeks, summer). Application help: 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS or 1‑888‑442‑7735. (decal.ga.gov)
CAPS Eligibility and the Money Side
- Income limits: Georgia set new income thresholds in 2024–2025. Initial eligibility is capped at 30% of State Median Income (SMI) and ongoing eligibility (once on CAPS) up to 85% of SMI. The official chart below is effective March 1, 2025 (initial and ongoing limits use SMI effective September 1, 2024). (caps.decal.ga.gov)
- Family fee (your share): As of March 1, 2025, the weekly fee is a percentage of your yearly income: 3%, 5%, or 7% depending on your income as a share of federal poverty level; families at or below 10% of FPL have no fee. Fee is divided among children on CAPS. Formula: weekly fee = annual income × 0.03/0.05/0.07 ÷ 52. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
- What CAPS pays: CAPS reimburses the provider up to the state maximum rate for your county zone, provider type (center/family home/informal), age, and type of care (full‑time, part‑time, before/after school). If the provider’s rate is above that max, you pay the difference plus your family fee. Registration fees up to $65 per child may be covered when authorized. (caps.decal.ga.gov, decal.ga.gov)
- School‑age scholarships: During the school year, CAPS pays the “before and after school” rate; during breaks and summer, it may pay the full‑time weekly rate if authorized (often via variable schedule scholarship). (decal.ga.gov)
- Priority groups: CAPS uses priority groups; some groups (e.g., DFCS custody, domestic violence, children with disabilities, Georgia’s Pre‑K enrollees, TANF participants) get special access or flexibilities. Priority policy updated July 1, 2025. (decal.ga.gov)
CAPS Maximum Income Limits (Effective March 1, 2025)
These are annual limits. “Initial Eligibility” is for new applicants; “Ongoing Eligibility” is for families already on CAPS.
| Family Size | Initial Eligibility (30% SMI) | Ongoing Eligibility (85% SMI) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $16,520 | $46,805 |
| 2 | $21,603 | $61,207 |
| 3 | $26,686 | $75,608 |
| 4 | $31,768 | $90,010 |
| 5 | $36,851 | $104,411 |
| 6 | $41,934 | $118,812 |
Source: CAPS Appendix A — Maximum Income Limits (effective March 1, 2025). The chart also includes “very low‑income priority group” thresholds and family sizes up to 12. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
CAPS Reimbursement Rates for School‑Age Care (Effective October 1, 2024)
Georgia has three payment zones. Before/after school weekly maximums are below.
| Zone | Centers (before/after, per week) | Family Home | Informal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 (includes Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, etc.) | $84 | $68 | $68 |
| Zone 2 (e.g., Chatham, Muscogee, Richmond, Bibb, Hall, etc.) | $68 | $58 | $58 |
| Zone 3 (many rural counties) | $53 | $47 | $47 |
Full‑time weekly school‑age rates (summer/holiday weeks) are higher: 185∗∗(Zone1centers),∗∗185** (Zone 1 centers), **140 (Zone 2 centers), $115 (Zone 3 centers). See Appendix C for complete rates and zone lists. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
How to Apply and What to Upload
- Apply online: How to Apply for CAPS. Create/log into your Gateway account, complete the CAPS application, and upload documents. (decal.ga.gov)
- Documents to gather:
- Proof of Georgia residency: Lease, utility bill, or similar.
- Proof of identity for parent and child: ID, birth certificate.
- Child citizenship/qualified status and immunization: As applicable.
- Proof of income: Last 4 weeks of paystubs, self‑employment records, child support received, unemployment, etc. (CAPS calculates income from the most recent 4 weeks; biweekly is multiplied by 2.1666, weekly by 4.3333). (decal.ga.gov)
- Approved activity proof: Work schedule/paystubs, school schedule, TANF work plan (if applicable). (georgia.gov)
- Choosing a provider: Use Find Child Care or call 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS to locate CAPS‑eligible programs and Quality Rated providers near you. (decal.ga.gov)
Real‑World Cost Examples (Family Fee)
- Example A: Mom with 2 kids, annual income 24,000∗∗(familyof3).Feetier=∗∗524,000** (family of 3). Fee tier = **5%**. Weekly fee = **24,000 × 0.05 ÷ 52 ≈ $23/week (rounded down), split across both children. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
- Example B: Mom with 1 child, annual income 10,000∗∗(familyof2).Feetier=∗∗310,000** (family of 2). Fee tier = **3%**. Weekly fee = **10,000 × 0.03 ÷ 52 ≈ 5∗∗/week.IfenrolledataZone1centerforbefore/afterschool,CAPSpaysupto∗∗5**/week. If enrolled at a Zone 1 center for before/after school, CAPS pays up to **84/week; mom pays her $5 plus any amount over the state max if the provider charges more. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
Timelines and Tips
- Decision timing: Processing depends on how fast you submit complete proofs and choose a provider. CAPS won’t pay retroactively before the scholarship start date. Action window: if you’re approved without a provider, you typically get up to 45 days to select one or the case can close. Change reporting: report required changes within 10 days; closure notices require 14 days prior notice. (decal.ga.gov)
- If your family fee seems high: Ask the worker to recalculate if your hours dropped; your fee can go down mid‑period but won’t increase until redetermination. Families at or below 10% of FPL owe $0. (decal.ga.gov)
- If your provider charges more than the CAPS rate: You’re responsible for the difference plus your weekly fee. Ask the provider about discounts or scholarships, or look for a similar Quality Rated program within the state rate. (decal.ga.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the provider if they accept CAPS and have slots; if not, search for other CAPS providers via 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS or Find Child Care. Also ask your school district about 21st CCLC and check the GSAN map for free/low‑cost spots. If your income is just over the CAPS initial limit, set reminders for redetermination because ongoing eligibility goes up to 85% SMI, and your status can change if income dips. (decal.ga.gov, caps.decal.ga.gov)
Free School‑Based Afterschool and Summer Learning: 21st CCLC
Start here: Call your child’s school or district to ask if they have a 21st Century Community Learning Center. Programs are free, focus on reading/math help, enrichment, and family engagement, and often include snacks/meals and transportation. State contact: (404) 695‑1883 (GaDOE). (gadoe.org)
- Who gets in: Sites prioritize students needing academic support and schools with high free/reduced‑price lunch populations. Slots are limited; waitlists are common—apply early. The GaDOE maintains current subgrantee lists and program manuals. (gadoe.org)
- Local examples: Districts like Douglas County, Richmond County, Walton County, and Boys & Girls Clubs sites run 21st CCLC programs with tutoring, STEM/arts, field trips, and summer camps. Check your district website or call the school front office for sign‑up details. (dcssga.org, rcboe.org, walton.k12.ga.us, boysgirlsclubs.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school doesn’t host 21st CCLC, ask whether a nearby school does and if they accept students from other schools. If not, pivot to CAPS‑eligible community programs or YMCA/Clubs, and search the GSAN map. (afterschoolga.org)
DFCS Afterschool Care Program (Grants to Providers)
Start here: Email [email protected] or call (404) 657‑4651 to ask which organizations in your county currently receive DFCS Afterschool grants and if they’re enrolling. These funds help programs in low‑to‑moderate income communities reduce or eliminate parent fees. (dfcs.georgia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If no DFCS‑funded site is nearby, ask your city/county Parks & Recreation, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, or school PTA about scholarships or sliding fees. Then check CAPS for ongoing weekly help. (ymcaatlanta.org, bgcma.org)
Free Meals in Summer and After School
Start here: Use DECAL’s Nutrition Program Search to find summer meal sites (Happy Helpings/SFSP) and child care programs with free/reduced meals through CACFP. Help line: 855‑550‑7377; text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com)
- Reality check: Georgia did not operate the USDA SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) grocery benefit in 2024 or 2025. If your friend in another state received $120 per child, that’s because their state opted in; Georgia did not. Rely on meal sites and local food banks instead for summer grocery gaps. (mcbath.house.gov, fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 to locate food pantries and school‑district meal routes near you. (unitedwayatlanta.org)
Other Reliable, Low‑Cost Options
- YMCA of Metro Atlanta: Accepts CAPS and offers financial assistance; some school‑based Y programs have reduced rates for students on free/reduced lunch. Member service center: (404) 267‑5353; financial assistance email FA@ymcaatlanta.org. Program info and assistance details online. (ymcaatlanta.org, ymca-atlanta-production.oneeach.net)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA): Very low membership costs; scholarships available; afterschool includes snacks and often summer breakfast/lunch. Main: 404‑527‑7100; see club list and “Join a Club.” (bgcma.org)
- Georgia 4‑H (UGA Extension): After‑school clubs and affordable camps available in every county; many activities are free or low cost. Find your local club via UGA Extension. (georgia4h.org)
- Statewide program search (GSAN): Use the interactive map to see where 21st CCLC, DFCS Out‑of‑School Services, BOOST, and other public funding intersect with community need. (afterschoolga.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school counselor about transportation barriers and community scholarships. Call 211 to pinpoint faith‑based and city recreation programs with scholarships. (unitedwayatlanta.org)
What You’ll Actually Pay — Putting It Together
Table — Your Out‑of‑Pocket With CAPS (Typical Scenarios)
| Scenario | Program Type | State Pays (up to) | You Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 center, before/after school | CAPS | $84/week | Your weekly family fee (e.g., 5–5–23 in examples) + any provider charge above $84 |
| Zone 2 center, full‑time summer week | CAPS | $140/week | Weekly family fee + any amount over $140 |
| 21st CCLC school site | 21st CCLC | $0 | $0 |
| DFCS‑funded nonprofit | DFCS grant | Varies | Often 0–0–25/week or sliding scale (ask site) |
Rates from CAPS Appendix C; examples use CAPS Appendix D fee rules. Actual costs depend on provider posted rates. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
Timelines, Deadlines, and What to Expect
- CAPS activity and income proofs: Upload quickly. Income is usually calculated from your last 4 weeks of pay; biweekly pay multiplied by 2.1666, weekly by 4.3333. (decal.ga.gov)
- Selecting a provider after approval: If approved without naming a provider, you typically have up to 45 days to choose one; otherwise your case may close. (decal.ga.gov)
- Reporting changes: Required changes (like income rising above 85% SMI for four straight weeks, moving out of state, major activity change) must be reported within 10 days. Closures generally give 14 days notice. (decal.ga.gov)
- 21st CCLC enrollment windows: Sites can fill fast at the start of each semester and summer; if wait‑listed, ask to be called when a seat opens and check neighboring schools’ programs. (gadoe.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply for CAPS until after you start a job or semester: Apply as soon as you have a job offer or class schedule—CAPS won’t pay retroactively. (decal.ga.gov)
- Not checking zone‑based rates: A provider in your county may be in a different payment zone with lower rates; ask the director which zone your site falls under and what your out‑of‑pocket will be. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
- Forgetting to report income changes or address updates: You must report required changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments or closure. (decal.ga.gov)
- Assuming Georgia offers SUN Bucks: Georgia has not participated in 2024 or 2025; look to meal sites and local food banks instead. (mcbath.house.gov)
- Picking a provider that is not CAPS‑eligible: Confirm CAPS participation before enrolling; use the DECAL search or call 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS. (decal.ga.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask programs if they follow Georgia’s Afterschool & Youth Development Quality Standards for inclusive family partnerships. If you or your teen needs support, call or text 988 to reach trained counselors 24/7. (georgiaasyd.org, samhsa.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: CAPS can cover child care for children with disabilities up to age 17 and may negotiate higher rates; provide an IEP, 504 plan, or medical documentation. Ask about inclusion supports at your program. (decal.ga.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your school district if 21st CCLC sites provide priority for children needing academic support; call 211 for military family childcare resources in your county. (unitedwayatlanta.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children must be U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants for CAPS; 21st CCLC is school‑based and does not require immigration proofs for student participation. Many districts offer interpretation for families—ask your school’s parent liaison. (georgia.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Georgia does not operate SUN Bucks, but 21st CCLC and Happy Helpings sites are open to all eligible students. Check UGA Extension/4‑H in your county for culture‑based clubs and leadership opportunities. (georgia4h.org)
- Rural single moms with limited transport: Use GSAN’s interactive map to spot programs in your area, and ask providers about school bus drop‑offs to their sites. If distance is a barrier, look for 4‑H afterschool clubs hosted at schools. (afterschoolga.org)
- Single fathers: All programs above serve single dads too; eligibility is based on your household situation and income, not gender. Use the same application routes and contacts listed here. (decal.ga.gov)
- Language access: Schools and many agencies provide interpretation on request. GaDOE’s 21st CCLC resources include materials for parents in multiple languages; ask your site. (gadoe.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- CAPS phones: 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS, 1‑888‑442‑7735 (DECAL).
- Apply for CAPS: CAPS application portal.
- Find child care: DECAL Families — Find Child Care.
- CAPS income & fee charts: Appendix A (income), Appendix D (family fees).
- CAPS rates: Appendix C (payment zones and rates).
- 21st CCLC contact: (404) 695‑1883 (GaDOE).
- DFCS Afterschool grants contact: (404) 657‑4651, [email protected].
- Summer meals: DECAL Nutrition Search; 855‑550‑7377; text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744.
- GSAN program map: Find a Program.
- United Way: Dial 211 or (404) 614‑1000 (metro).
- Crisis support: Call/text 988.
Application Checklist
- Proof of income: Last 4 weeks of paystubs, child support received, unemployment benefits, self‑employment records.
- Proof of activity: Work schedule/paystubs; class schedule/enrollment; TANF work plan if applicable.
- Child documents: Birth certificate, immunization record, citizenship/qualified status (if applicable).
- Parent ID and Georgia residency: Lease, utility bill, or similar.
- Provider choice: Program name and location; confirm CAPS eligibility and whether they offer before/after school and full‑day coverage for breaks.
- Backup plan: Name a second program in case your first choice has no seats.
- Calendar check: Note your school’s break weeks and early release days so you can authorize variable or full‑time care as needed.
Tables You Can Use Today
Table — CAPS Family Fee Tiers (Effective March 1, 2025)
| Family Size | No Fee (≤10% FPL) | 3% Fee (>10–50% FPL) | 5% Fee (>50–100% FPL) | 7% Fee (>100% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0–0–1,565 | 1,566–1,566–7,825 | 7,826–7,826–15,650 | $15,651+ |
| 2 | 0–0–2,115 | 2,116–2,116–10,575 | 10,576–10,576–21,150 | $21,151+ |
| 3 | 0–0–2,665 | 2,666–2,666–13,325 | 13,326–13,326–26,650 | $26,651+ |
| 4 | 0–0–3,215 | 3,216–3,216–16,075 | 16,076–16,076–32,150 | $32,151+ |
Full table (sizes up to 12) in Appendix D. Weekly fee = annual income × 3%/5%/7% ÷ 52. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
Table — CAPS Before/After‑School Weekly Maximums (Effective October 1, 2024)
| Zone | Counties (examples) | Center | Family Home | Informal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Metro Atlanta counties including Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry | $84 | $68 | $68 |
| Zone 2 | Augusta, Columbus, Savannah, Macon areas (Richmond, Muscogee, Chatham, Bibb) | $68 | $58 | $58 |
| Zone 3 | Many rural counties statewide | $53 | $47 | $47 |
See Appendix C for the complete county list. Full‑time school‑age weekly maximums: 185∗∗(Zone1centers),∗∗185** (Zone 1 centers), **140 (Zone 2), $115 (Zone 3). (caps.decal.ga.gov)
Table — Who to Call and What to Ask
| Need | Who to Call | What to Ask |
|---|---|---|
| CAPS status or help uploading | 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS, 1‑888‑442‑7735 | “Can you confirm my documents are complete and tell me what’s missing?” (decal.ga.gov) |
| Free school‑based program | (404) 695‑1883 (GaDOE 21st CCLC) | “Which subgrantees serve my district and how do I enroll?” (gadoe.org) |
| DFCS‑funded afterschool near me | (404) 657‑4651 | “Which providers in my county currently have DFCS Afterschool grants and open seats?” (dfcs.georgia.gov) |
| Summer meal site today | 855‑550‑7377 | “Closest open site hours and address for today?” (decal.ga.gov) |
| Local options finder | 211 or (404) 614‑1000 | “Afterschool programs with scholarships within 5 miles of my ZIP.” (unitedwayatlanta.org, 211online.unitedwayatlanta.org) |
Taxes That Can Help You Pay for Care
- Georgia Child and Dependent Care Credit (state): For tax years after new law, Georgia increased its match to 50% of your federal child/dependent care credit. Check your eligibility when filing. (ltgov.georgia.gov, wabe.org)
- New Georgia Child Tax Credit: Beginning with tax year 2026, a new $250 per child credit applies for children under age 6 (one parent per child if unmarried). Watch DOR guidance as forms are released. (ltgov.georgia.gov, wabe.org)
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Up to 3,000∗∗ofexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** of expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more; non‑refundable and calculated at 20–35% depending on income. (File your federal return to claim; Georgia’s state credit uses your federal amount.) (kiplinger.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a free VITA tax site to review your federal and Georgia credits and confirm you claimed everything you qualify for. United Way 211 can route you to local VITA clinics. (unitedwayatlanta.org)
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call)
- Metro Atlanta: YMCA of Metro Atlanta (404‑267‑5353), BGCMA (404‑527‑7100), multiple 21st CCLC grantees across APS and districts. (ymca-atlanta-production.oneeach.net, bgcma.org)
- Savannah/Coastal: Savannah‑Chatham (SCCPSS) operates multiple 21st CCLC sites; check district list. (spwww.sccpss.com)
- Augusta/Richmond County: 21st CCLC office 706‑826‑1000 (district page lists sites). (rcboe.org)
- Gainesville/Hall County: Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier runs 21st CCLC‑supported sites; contact the Club for locations. (boysgirlsclubs.com)
- Statewide: UGA Extension/Georgia 4‑H has clubs and low‑cost camps in every county. (georgia4h.org)
If your city isn’t listed, call 211 and ask for “afterschool programs with scholarships near [your ZIP].” (unitedwayatlanta.org)
Ten Georgia‑Specific FAQs
- Q: Can CAPS pay for before/after school and full‑day summer care
A: Yes. CAPS authorizes before/after school during the school year and full‑time care for break weeks or summer when approved. Ask your worker about a variable schedule scholarship if your child uses the same site year‑round. (decal.ga.gov) - Q: What if my provider’s fee is higher than the CAPS rate
A: You pay the difference plus your weekly family fee. Ask if they can match the CAPS rate or offer a scholarship; otherwise consider another CAPS‑eligible provider nearby. (decal.ga.gov) - Q: How much is the CAPS family fee for my income
A: It’s 3%, 5%, or 7% of annual income (weekly amount is annual ÷ 52), with $0 for families at or below 10% of FPL. See Appendix D for your family size. (caps.decal.ga.gov) - Q: What are the current CAPS income limits
A: Initial eligibility is 30% SMI and ongoing up to 85% SMI. See Appendix A (effective March 1, 2025). (caps.decal.ga.gov) - Q: Who qualifies for free school‑based 21st CCLC
A: Students at funded schools/sites—prioritizing those needing academic support. Ask your school or GaDOE (404‑695‑1883). (gadoe.org) - Q: Does Georgia offer SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) in 2025
A: No. Georgia did not participate in 2024 or 2025. Use meal sites (Happy Helpings) and food bank resources via 211. (mcbath.house.gov) - Q: Can CAPS help if my child has a disability and is older than 12
A: Yes—up to age 17, with documentation (IEP, 504, medical). CAPS may approve negotiated rates for children with disabilities. (decal.ga.gov) - Q: What if I’m fleeing domestic violence
A: You can be in a CAPS priority group with a 45‑day grace period to provide verification documents. Ask your worker; provide documentation when safe. (decal.ga.gov) - Q: How do I find a trustworthy program
A: Search DECAL’s “Find Child Care” for licensed and Quality Rated programs and the GSAN map; visit in person, ask about staff ratios, transportation, and homework help. Phone: 1‑877‑ALL‑GA‑KIDS. (decal.ga.gov, afterschoolga.org) - Q: Are there tax breaks to help with costs
A: Georgia now matches 50% of your federal Child & Dependent Care Credit and created a $250 per‑child state credit (under age 6) beginning with tax year 2026. (ltgov.georgia.gov, wabe.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers who verify every figure with official sources and keep guides practical and up‑to‑date. See our full standards: ASingleMother Editorial Policy.
What we used: Official websites of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), Georgia DFCS, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and established nonprofits (GSAN, YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way).
Verification timeline: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and fix verified errors within 48 hours per our policy page. (caps.decal.ga.gov, gadoe.org, dfcs.georgia.gov, decal.ga.gov, afterschoolga.org)
Disclaimer
Accuracy and changes: Program rules, dollar amounts, and eligibility can change at any time. Always confirm details with the agency or site linked here before you apply or enroll.
Independence: We are a research site, not a government office, and cannot guarantee outcomes or provide legal advice.
Security: For your privacy, do not email Social Security numbers or full ID scans unless a secure upload tool is provided by the agency. When possible, use official portals listed above.
Sources Cited
- DECAL CAPS Policy & Contacts: Income limits, fee tiers, max rates, program rules, and family/phone lines. (caps.decal.ga.gov, decal.ga.gov)
- Georgia 21st CCLC (GaDOE): Program purpose, operations manuals, and contact (404‑695‑1883). (gadoe.org)
- DFCS Afterschool Care Program: Program description and contact (404‑657‑4651, [email protected]). (dfcs.georgia.gov)
- DECAL Nutrition/Happy Helpings: Meal site search and family help line (855‑550‑7377); text “Summer Meals” to 914‑342‑7744. (decal.ga.gov, happyhelpingsga.com)
- GSAN maps and program finder: Statewide search tools and public funding layers. (afterschoolga.org)
- United Way 211 (GA): Dial 211 and metro line (404) 614‑1000. (unitedwayatlanta.org, 211online.unitedwayatlanta.org)
- SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) status and benefit levels: USDA program info and 2025 benefits; Georgia non‑participation reports. (fns.usda.gov, mcbath.house.gov)
- YMCA & Boys & Girls Clubs (Metro Atlanta): Financial assistance and contacts (404‑267‑5353, 404‑527‑7100). (ymcaatlanta.org, ymca-atlanta-production.oneeach.net, bgcma.org)
- UGA Extension/Georgia 4‑H: County‑level afterschool clubs and camps. (georgia4h.org)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: National 24/7 number. (suicidepreventionlifeline.org)
What we improved vs. typical search results: We included current CAPS income limits effective March 1, 2025, the exact before/after‑school weekly rates by zone, the updated family fee math, live phone numbers, and a county‑level search playbook. Many top results miss these specifics or use outdated numbers. All links above point to official state pages or established nonprofits for fast action. (caps.decal.ga.gov)
🏛️More Georgia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Georgia
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