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Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

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How afterschool and summer help works in Illinois

Bottom line: stack programs. Use CCAP to cut the cost of licensed or license-exempt care (including school-age before/after care and many all-day summer programs), use school- or community-run free programs when possible (21st CCLC or state-funded afterschool), and add nutrition supports (afterschool snacks/supper, SFSP, Summer EBT) so your child is fed while you work. (dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net)


Quick reference cheat sheet

Program What it covers Who qualifies How to apply Typical timeline
CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program) Before/after-school care, school breaks, many summer day programs if the provider participates Illinois residency; work or approved school/training; income within limits (initial up to 225% FPL; redetermination up to 275% FPL; exit at 85% SMI) CCAP Digital App (selected counties), Paper IL444-3455, or via your local CCR&R Chicago processing commonly ~10 business days; varies by county and season
21st CCLC / ISBE Afterschool Grants Free afterschool/summer enrichment at schools/community sites Students at grantee schools or listed community sites Ask your school office or check ISBE’s dashboard Registration usually during back‑to‑school; fills quickly
DFSS/City of Chicago School‑Age Programs Subsidized afterschool for ages 5–12 and youth enrichment Chicago residents; income-based for school‑age subsidy Call 312-229-1690 (Chicago Early Learning) Varies by site; rolling
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) One-time grocery benefit per eligible child during summer Children in NSLP schools or on qualifying benefits; income ≤185% FPL Automatic for many; otherwise apply in ABE; help at 833-621-0737 Initial issuances May 19–26, 2025; ongoing weekly batches
Summer Meals (SFSP/SSO) Free meals/snacks at open sites or enrolled camps All kids 18 and under at open sites; enrolled sites vary Use locator and hotline 800-359-2163 Same day

Sources: IDHS CCAP Policy Manual and income table; ISBE 21st CCLC; City of Chicago DFSS; IDHS/ISBE Summer EBT; ISBE SFSP. (dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net, chicago.gov)

What to do first this month

  • Apply for CCAP if your income fits. Even if you’re unsure, the CCR&R can screen you in minutes. Keep your spot by asking the provider to hold enrollment while your case is reviewed. (inccrra.org)
  • Lock in a backup site (YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, Park District). Ask about scholarships and whether they accept CCAP. (ymcachicago.org, bgcc.org, chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  • Secure afterschool snacks or supper at your child’s school or local program; it’s free in qualifying areas. (isbe.net)
  • If it’s summer: use Summer EBT and free meal sites, then fill remaining hours with low-cost day camps (financial aid is widely available). (dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net)

CCAP for school‑age care and summer: your main cost‑cutter

Who qualifies and what’s covered

  • Eligibility basics: Illinois residency, work or approved education/training, and income within limits. For new approvals, income must be at or below 225% FPL, at redetermination up to 275% FPL, and families exit if income exceeds 85% of State Median Income. CCAP can cover before/after-school care and full‑day care during breaks and summer when the provider participates. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • School‑age co‑pay relief: When all children on your case are school‑age and approved for less than 5 hours of care (typical school days) during September–May, your monthly co‑pay is cut in half. This is written into IDHS reporting (families with school‑age approvals under five hours). (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Provider types: Licensed centers/homes and many license‑exempt school‑age programs can accept CCAP. Ask directly—many YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs do. Examples: YMCA of Metro Chicago lists CCAP for school‑age care; Boys & Girls Clubs (North Central IL) enroll CCAP‑eligible families and do not collect co‑pays from them. (ymcachicago.org, bgcncil.org)

2024 monthly income guide used by IDHS (latest posted by the state)

Family size 225% FPL (new apps) 275% FPL (redet) 85% SMI (exit cap)
2 $3,833 $4,684 $5,427
3 $4,841 $5,917 $6,704
4 $5,850 $7,150 $7,981
5 $6,859 $8,383 $9,258
6 $7,868 $9,616 $10,535

Source: IDHS CCAP Policy Manual, Income Guidelines effective July 1, 2024 (posted by the state; check the same page for any July 2025 update before you apply). (dhs.state.il.us)

Co‑pay examples for school‑age care (monthly)

Family size Monthly income IDHS “School‑Age” co‑pay
2 $2,300 $166.00
3 $3,072 $111.00
4 $3,932 $141.50

Note: For September–May when all children are school‑age and approved under 5 hours per day, the monthly co‑pay is reduced by half. Source: IDHS WAG Table B (copays effective July 1, 2022) and FY23 report note on the 50% school‑age reduction. Always confirm the current chart with your CCR&R. (dhs.state.il.us)

How to apply and where to get help

Timelines and tips:

  • Processing: Many agencies quote around 10 business days from receipt; peak times can take longer. Plan for 2–3 weeks when school starts or summer nears. YWCA lists a 10‑business‑day review window. (ywcachicago.org)
  • Keep documents ready: photo ID, proof of Illinois address, work/school schedule, and most recent pay stubs (usually two), plus your chosen provider’s details and rate. Paper submission guidance: IDHS Paper Application page. (dhs.state.il.us)

Reality check: Not every camp or afterschool program takes CCAP. Ask up front. If a program is license‑exempt recreation only, CCAP may not pay; some park districts and nonprofits cover this gap with their own scholarships or sliding fees (see YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, Park District below). (ymcachicago.org, bgcncil.org, chicagoparkdistrict.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your CCR&R for providers with CCAP openings, request temporary schedule approvals for changing shifts, or switch to a CCAP‑participating site. If you can’t get through locally, call IDHS Helpline at 800‑843‑6154 and use the office locator to escalate. (hfs.illinois.gov, dhs.state.il.us)

Free and low‑cost afterschool at schools

21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

  • What it is: Federally funded, free afterschool and summer enrichment at eligible high‑need schools and community sites. ISBE hosts a public dashboard of grantees and sites. See: ISBE 21st CCLC Program + Sites Dashboard. (isbe.net)
  • How to find a seat:
    • Call your child’s school and ask for the “afterschool or 21st CCLC coordinator.”
    • Check current grantees and community‑based sites via ISBE’s dashboard and the state’s awards portal (example awards run through Aug. 31, 2025). See: Illinois CSFA 21st CCLC Award List (FY2025). (omb.illinois.gov)
  • State afterschool funding: ISBE also runs state‑funded After School Programs grants. For FY2026, $35 million was appropriated, including competitive funds for non‑school district providers. Parents can ask local organizations whether they applied, and schools may add seats as grants roll out. Info and contact: 217-782-5270 or afterschool@isbe.net; program page: ISBE After School Programs. (isbe.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school has no funded program, ask the principal about partnering with a YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, or community group (many 21st CCLC grantees are youth nonprofits), and share the ISBE link above for future grant cycles. Meanwhile, use CCAP at a community site. (omb.illinois.gov)

Nutrition supports that make afterschool and summer affordable

Free afterschool snacks and suppers

  • Many Illinois schools and community programs serve free snacks or a light supper after school through NSLP Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool. Area‑eligible sites provide snacks at the free rate to all kids in the program, regardless of individual income. Ask your school office. Parent‑facing info: ISBE Afterschool FAQ. (isbe.net)

Summer Meals (SFSP/Seamless Summer)

  • Free meals for all kids 18 and under at open sites. For rural areas, Illinois participates in SUN Meals To‑Go (non‑congregate) where approved. Details and updates: ISBE Summer Food Service Program. (isbe.net)

Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) – 2025 key facts

  • Amount: $120 per eligible child, one‑time.
  • Who gets it automatically: Kids on SNAP/TANF/Medicaid ≤185% FPL during the window, or kids deemed eligible for free/reduced meals at NSLP schools.
  • Apply if not automatic: Through ABE (Summer EBT option).
  • Issuance timeline: initial issuances May 19–26, 2025; weekly issuances continue as kids are identified.
  • Help: 833-621-0737. Full details: IDHS Summer EBT 2025 FAQs and ISBE SEBT page. (dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net)

School meal income limits (SY 2025–26)

  • Free meal threshold (130% FPL) and reduced‑price (185% FPL) change every July 1. For example, a household of four qualifies for reduced‑price meals up to 59,478/year∗∗andfreemealsupto∗∗59,478/year** and free meals up to **41,795/year for SY 2025–26. Full chart published by USDA: Child Nutrition Programs Income Eligibility Guidelines, SY 2025–26. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you didn’t see Summer EBT on your card, use the screener in ABE and call 833‑621‑0737. For meal sites not listed online, call 800‑359‑2163 or ask your school district food service office. (dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net)

Low‑cost providers and city programs to know

Chicago Park District

  • Day Camp 2025: 6 weeks, June 23–Aug 1, 2025; most camps 6 hours/day. The highest cost was capped at 4.00/hour∗∗;districtaverage∗∗4.00/hour**; district average **1.39/hour. Online registration opened Apr 14–15, 2025 by region. See details: CPD Day Camp 2025. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  • Financial assistance: Covers 50% of camp or Park Kids cost for eligible city residents. Bring proof (e.g., SNAP/TANF Decision Notice, Medicaid card listing child, or income documents). Info: CPD Financial Assistance. General line: 312‑742‑7529. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  • CHA reduced pricing: Summer Day Camp fee as low as $15 with a CHA membership (limited quantity). See: CHA Program Fees. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  • Afterschool Park Kids (school year): Typically 3–6 pm at 100+ parks; financial assistance and CHA discounts available. See: Park Kids Program. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a park is full, check nearby parks and ask about waitlists and payment plans. Keep proof of eligibility ready for the 50% financial aid and watch registration dates early. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)

YMCA (statewide networks)

  • Before/after‑school care: Many Ys accept CCAP. Example: YMCA of Metro Chicago confirms CCAP eligibility for school‑age programs. Site‑based “School’s Out” days often run 7 am–6 pm for about $70/day at suburban locations. Start here: YMCA School‑Age Care and sample pricing pages. (ymcachicago.org)
  • Belvidere/Winnebago County example: Before/after care with CCAP accepted; published weekly session fees vary by week. Program info: Belvidere YMCA School‑Age Care. (belvidere.recliquecore.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Y about CCAP intake support and internal financial assistance if you’re over CCAP limits. Many Ys keep scholarship funds for working parents. (ymcachicago.org)

Boys & Girls Clubs

  • Chicago: Many clubs charge a nominal annual fee (often around $20 per child; some sites differ) and offer daily afterschool with homework help. Check your local club for current fees. Main line: 312‑235‑8000; info: BGCC FAQs. (bgcc.org)
  • North Central IL (Elgin/Aurora area): Sliding‑scale fees with high scholarship coverage; CCAP used for eligible elementary families (families on CCAP don’t pay monthly fees). Contact 847‑608‑5017; fee policies and CCAP info: BGCNCI Membership Fees. (bgcncil.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a club is full, get on the waitlist and ask about satellite sites or partner schools in your area (some operate in school buildings). (bgcelgin.org)

City of Chicago DFSS

What to do if this doesn’t work: If DFSS sites near you are full, ask about youth enrichment programs (ages 6–21) and CHA‑funded options through DFSS partners. (chicago.gov, thecha.org)

Summer options beyond the big cities

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your county CCR&R for a region‑specific list of CCAP‑accepting summer programs and ask about free 21st CCLC summer sites near you. (inccrra.org)

Application checklist

  • Proof of identity and Illinois address: ID and a recent bill or lease.
  • Work or school: Work schedule, two recent pay stubs, or school schedule (if in training/education).
  • Child info: Child’s birthdate, provider’s name, address, and rate.
  • Forms: Completed IL444‑3455 signed by parent and provider. Submission guidance: IDHS Paper Application page. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Backups: A list of two alternative providers you can call if your first choice fills.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Starting CCAP after you enroll: Ask the provider if they accept CCAP before you sign anything. If not, you might owe the full fee.
  • Missing documents: Incomplete applications are the top reason for delays. Use the checklist above.
  • Not asking for school‑age co‑pay relief: If your kids are school‑age and approved under 5 hours, check that the 50% co‑pay reduction appears on your approval letter during Sept–May. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Assuming all camps take CCAP: Many do not; ask about scholarships, CHA discounts, and payment plans.
  • Waiting on meal help: Afterschool snacks/suppers and Summer Meals are immediate. Use them while you wait on paperwork. (isbe.net)

Resources by region

Chicago (Cook County)

Collar counties (DuPage, Kane, Lake, Will, McHenry)

Northern Illinois (Rockford/Winnebago)

Central Illinois

Southern Illinois

Diverse communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Inclusion Services at YMCA of Metro Chicago and many Boys & Girls Clubs ensure youth with diverse identities are supported. For crisis support, call 988 and press 3 for an LGBTQI+‑affirming counselor. See: YMCA School‑Age Care and 988 options. (ymcachicago.org, fcc.gov)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: CCAP prioritizes families engaged in work/school with a special‑needs child within certain income limits. Ask your CCR&R about adaptive supports at YMCA and park sites. See the priority groups note in IDHS income guidance. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Veteran single mothers: Use CCAP and local nonprofit afterschool options; for emotional support or emergencies, call 988 then press 1 (Veterans Crisis Line). (fcc.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Summer EBT has no citizenship requirement and is not considered in public charge. SEBT help: 833‑621‑0737. See: IDHS Summer EBT 2025 FAQs. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: In Chicago, the American Indian Center and American Indian Health Service of Chicago run youth programs and community events year‑round. AIC phone: 773‑275‑5871. See: AIC and AIHSC Youth Development Program. (data.nativemi.org, aihschgo.org)
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Look for SUN Meals To‑Go (non‑congregate summer meals) and ask your CCR&R about transportation‑friendly sites and sliding‑scale providers. See: ISBE SFSP + SUN Meals To‑Go. (isbe.net)
  • Single fathers: All supports here (CCAP, 21st CCLC, SFSP, Summer EBT) apply equally to single dads. Use the same contact points.
  • Language access: Ask your CCR&R and provider for interpreter help. For crisis support in Spanish, call 988, then press 2; or text “AYUDA” to 988. (fcc.gov)

Real‑world examples

  • Working mom in Chicago earning $3,900/month with a 7‑year‑old: Her income is within the CCAP range for family of 2. A YMCA program that accepts CCAP can be covered with a school‑age co‑pay that is often reduced by half during September–May (under 5 hours per day). She also uses free afterschool snacks at school and registers early for Park District day camp with 50% financial aid for summer. (dhs.state.il.us, ymcachicago.org, chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  • Mom in Elgin with two kids, one 9 and one 14: The 9‑year‑old attends Boys & Girls Club after school on a scholarship/CCAP; the teen joins After School Matters for a paid internship during the year and a stipend summer program. (bgcncil.org, afterschoolmatters.org)

Key dates and deadlines table

Item Date
Chicago Park District 2025 Online Registration Apr 14–15, 2025 (by region)
CPD 2025 Day Camp session Jun 23–Aug 1, 2025
Summer EBT initial issuances May 19–26, 2025 (then weekly)
ISBE FY2026 After School Non‑LEA proposals due (NOFO) Oct 14, 2025 @ 4:00 pm

Sources: CPD Day Camp; IDHS Summer EBT 2025; ISBE After School NOFO. (chicagoparkdistrict.com, dhs.state.il.us, isbe.net)

Contact directory table

Purpose Contact
IDHS Customer Helpline 800‑843‑6154
CCR&R statewide line 866‑697‑8278
Chicago Early Learning (DFSS enrollment) 312‑229‑1690
Illinois Action for Children (Chicago CCAP) 312‑823‑1100
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago (DuPage/Kane/Lake CCAP) 630‑790‑6600 (DuPage), 847‑662‑4247 (Lake), 844‑221‑2227 (toll‑free)
Summer EBT Hotline 833‑621‑0737
Chicago Park District 312‑742‑7529
Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago 312‑235‑8000
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988

Citations: IDHS/HFS helpline; INCCRRA; DFSS; IAFC; YWCA; IDHS SEBT; CPD; BGCC; 988. (hfs.illinois.gov, inccrra.org, chicago.gov, actforchildren.org, ywcachicago.org, dhs.state.il.us, chicagoparkdistrict.com, bgcc.org, fcc.gov)

FAQs (Illinois‑specific)

  1. What income counts for CCAP: Gross income from work and most benefits count; some are exempt per IDHS rules. Your CCR&R will calculate using IDHS policy. See: CCAP Policy Manual – Income. (dhs.state.il.us)
  2. How fast can CCAP start: Processing is often around 10 business days, longer in peak seasons. Submit a complete packet and follow up with your agency. (ywcachicago.org)
  3. Does CCAP pay for summer day camp: If the program participates in CCAP (licensed or eligible license‑exempt and set up for CCAP billing), yes. Many YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs do; verify with the provider. (ymcachicago.org, bgcncil.org)
  4. Will my school offer free afterschool: Possibly. Check for 21st CCLC or state‑funded afterschool seats. Ask your school or search ISBE’s dashboard. (isbe.net)
  5. Are there meal supports after school: Yes—NSLP Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk. Area‑eligible sites serve all students at the free rate. (isbe.net)
  6. How much is Summer EBT: $120 per eligible child in 2025, with issuances beginning May 19–26 for most automatic cases. Help: 833‑621‑0737. (dhs.state.il.us)
  7. Do immigration status or public charge affect Summer EBT: No. Summer EBT is not considered under public charge and has no citizenship requirement. (dhs.state.il.us)
  8. What if my school uses CEP and meals are free for everyone: You may still qualify for Summer EBT if your child attends an NSLP school; check ABE’s Summer EBT screener. See: ISBE SEBT. (isbe.net)
  9. Can I stack CCAP with Park District/CHA discounts: CPD says financial assistance cannot be combined with other discounts or vouchers; ask your park. CHA discounts are limited and first‑come. (chicagoparkdistrict.com)
  10. Where do I find my nearest IDHS office: Use the IDHS office locator by county/ZIP to get address and phone for your Family Community Resource Center. (illinois.gov)

What if you still can’t find a seat

  • Ask for a CCR&R “expedited referral” for school‑age care and request sites that accept CCAP or have scholarship capacity.
  • Call the provider list daily for cancellations the week before school starts; many seats open last‑minute.
  • Use free options meanwhile: school‑based afterschool snacks/suppers and homework rooms; use Summer Meals and SEBT for nutrition gaps. (isbe.net)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois State Board of Education, USDA, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards with primary sources, direct application links, and verified contacts. We are independent researchers, not government staff.

Last verified: September 2025 • Next review: April 2026

Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we will review within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Program details change: Income limits, fees, and timelines shift—especially every July 1 for child nutrition and each fiscal year for grants. Always confirm amounts and eligibility with the relevant agency before you enroll or pay.

Security note: Only share personal details through official state portals (ABE/IDHS), your CCR&R, or your provider’s secure upload. Watch for EBT phishing texts or calls—never give your card number/PIN to unsolicited messages. Use the IDHS Helpline 800‑843‑6154 for verification. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Sources cited (selected)

If any link above is down, search the site’s name plus the program (e.g., “IDHS CCAP income guidelines”) or call the listed phone number for the fastest help.

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