Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Indiana

Last Updated on November 19, 2025 by Rachel

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help you can use right now

• If you or your child is in danger: Call 911.
• Mental health or crisis support: Call or text 988 (24/7).
• Food for kids today: Use the USDA Summer Meals map and Indiana’s locator; text “summer meals” or “verano” to 914-342-7744, or call the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE. (fns.usda.gov, in.gov)
• Help finding local programs and paying bills: Dial 211 (or 1-866-211-9966) or text your ZIP code to 898-211 for Indiana 211. (in.gov)

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Quick help box

• Best first call for child care help: Brighter Futures Indiana at 1-800-299-1627 for a free, personalized search for licensed afterschool programs (they also know who accepts vouchers). (faqs.in.gov)
• Child care vouchers (CCDF): Apply at Indiana’s Early Ed Connect. New applicants are currently placed on a waitlist; priorities include families under 100% FPL and children of child care workers. (in.gov)
• Free meals after school and in summer: Many schools and community sites serve meals at no cost through CACFP At-Risk Afterschool and SFSP; use Indiana DOE resources and the USDA map. (in.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Need quick, low-cost summer day camp options: Check city parks (scholarships exist—for example, Indy Parks), Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and county 4‑H programs. Examples and amounts are below with links. (parks.indy.gov, bgcindy.org, fwymca.org, extension.purdue.edu)
• Questions about afterschool safety and quality: Look up Paths to QUALITY ratings and inspection reports for any program you consider; you can also call OECOSL’s child care information line at 1-877-511-1144. (in.gov, secure.in.gov)

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What this guide covers that most search results miss

• Up-to-date 2025 Indiana rules and dollar amounts (CCDF income limits, co-pay factors, and state meal program updates).
• Exact links, phone numbers, and realistic timelines to save you calls.
• Plan B options if a program is full or you’re on a waitlist.
• Tips for special situations (shift work, non-custodial parents on pick-up lists, language access, disability needs).

Our approach follows our site’s Editorial Standards: we only cite official government/nonprofit sources and update quickly when policies change. (in.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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Summer meals in 2025 (important update)

Key update for 2025: Indiana did not operate Summer EBT/SUN Bucks this year. Families should use Summer Meals sites instead (eat on‑site or, in some rural areas, SUN Meals To‑Go). Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder, Indiana’s searchable locator, text “summer meals”/“verano” to 914‑342‑7744, or call the USDA hotline at 1‑866‑3‑HUNGRY or 1‑877‑8‑HAMBRE. (in.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Reality check: Site opening dates, days served, and times vary by community. The map is updated weekly in summer; if you see no results, check back or zoom out to nearby areas. (fns.usda.gov)

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Afterschool meals during the school year (CACFP At‑Risk)

What it is: Many schools, community centers, and clubs serve a free afterschool meal or snack through USDA’s CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool program. Kids do not pay, and sites often pair meals with homework help or activities. (in.gov)

How to find a site fast:

• Ask your child’s school office: “Do we offer CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool meals, or is there a nearby site my child can attend?”
• Call IDOE School Nutrition at: 317‑232‑6610 for help finding a local CACFP afterschool site. (in.gov)

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Indiana’s child care voucher (CCDF): afterschool and summer coverage

Bottom line first: CCDF can pay toward licensed/eligible afterschool programs and summer day camps while you work, train, or attend school. New applicants are on a waitlist; confirm your contact info every 90 days to stay active. (in.gov)

Who qualifies

• Income threshold to start: At or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), based on gross monthly income and family size.
• To remain eligible once on CCDF: Your income cannot exceed 85% of Indiana’s State Median Income (SMI). (in.gov)
• Special rule for child care workers: Employees of licensed/reg­ulated child care programs can qualify up to 85% SMI. (secure.in.gov)

2025 monthly income limits (to start CCDF at 150% FPL)

Use the “141%–150%” column of Indiana’s official 2025 CCDF sliding fee schedule (effective 05/01/2025) to see the maximum monthly income for your family size.

Source: 2025 CCDF Sliding Fee Schedule (effective 05/01/2025). (in.gov)

2025 incomes at 85% of Indiana SMI (helpful for child care workers and retention)

Source: FSSA OECOSL legislative updates (child care worker expansion to 85% SMI). (secure.in.gov)

What will you pay (co‑pay)

Indiana assigns a “fee factor” based on income and years on the program. Your co‑pay is a percentage of the rate; here are the ranges shown on the 2025 schedule:

• Year 1–3: 0–19%
• Year 4: 0–20%
• Year 5: 0–21%
• Year 6: 0–22%
• Year 7: 0–23%
• Year 8: 0–24%
• Year 9: 0–25%
• Year 10+: 0–26%

Source: 2025 CCDF Sliding Fee Schedule (effective 05/01/2025). (in.gov)

How to apply quickly

• Where to apply: Use Early Ed Connect (mobile‑friendly). Application is in English and Spanish. (in.gov)
• Documents you’ll need (upload photos from your phone): proof of address (last 60 days), photo ID, proof of each child’s identity, proof of work/school (recent pay stub, new hire or wage detail form), and provider info. Full checklist with links is on FSSA’s site. (in.gov)
• Find an eligible provider: Call Brighter Futures at 1‑800‑299‑1627 or use the Child Care Finder to see license status, inspections, and Paths to QUALITY rating. (faqs.in.gov)
• Stay in touch while on the waitlist: You must reconfirm your info every 90 days. Watch email/text; respond fast. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your eligibility office about local priorities and cancellations; call 211 for stopgap scholarships; ask your provider about short‑term sliding‑scale spots; and check parks, Boys & Girls Clubs, and YMCAs for scholarships (examples with amounts below). (in.gov)

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School-age programs funded by the state (SACC/Latch Key)

What it is: Indiana’s School‑Age Child Care (SACC/Latch Key) grants support before‑/after‑school care run by schools and nonprofits. Programs use a sliding fee scale set by the state. Families at lowest incomes can pay little to no fee per unit; the manual lists sample fees of $1–$10 as income rises across specific FPL bands. (Exact fees vary by site.) Staff‑to‑child ratios are 1:15 for groups with 5‑year‑olds and 1:20 for groups of 6 and older. (in.gov)

How to enroll: Call your school district’s Latch Key contact or afterschool office and ask for their SACC enrollment steps and fee schedule. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school doesn’t run Latch Key, ask if a 21st CCLC or community partner serves your school, or call Brighter Futures (1‑800‑299‑1627) for licensed community options. (in.gov, faqs.in.gov)

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21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

What it offers: Free afterschool and some summer programming with academics, enrichment, and family services at funded schools/community sites. Programs are federal Title IV‑B grants managed by IDOE. (in.gov)

How to find a site: Ask your principal if your school hosts a “21st CCLC” or partners with one; or contact the IDOE OST team via the program page for the current list of grantees. (in.gov)

Timeline tip: School‑based programs fill early each fall; if you missed open enrollment, ask to be added to the site’s interest list in case of withdrawals mid‑semester. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check if your local Boys & Girls Club or YMCA runs programs at your school; ask about financial assistance; use CCDF if eligible. (bgcindy.org, indymca.org)

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City, club, and community programs with real prices and scholarships

Indianapolis and Marion County

• Indy Parks Summer Day Camps—scholarships: Financial aid ranges from 50–100% off (deposits not included). You must first register and pay a $5 per‑child, per‑week deposit; notices arrive within roughly 3 weeks. Income chart published; scholarships limited to Marion County residents. Customer Service: 317‑327‑7275. (parks.indy.gov)
• Indy Parks Day Camps—general info and fees: Some camps require a $15 non‑refundable weekly fee at registration; balance due by 6 p.m. Wednesday before camp week. Phone: 317‑327‑7275. (parks.indy.gov)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis: Annual membership $25\ast \ast (schoolyear)or\ast \ast$50 (summer). Many sites also offer daily programming and special activity fees. (bgcindy.org)
• YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Before & After School—examples of 2025–26 weekly rates and assistance: Rates vary by school. Example sites show after‑care around $56–$75/week and combined before/after around $93–$103/week; CCDF vouchers accepted at many schools and Y financial assistance is available. Contact listed on each site’s page; example numbers: 317‑484‑9622 (account specialists). (indymca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Indy Parks about waitlists and cancellations; check Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs in neighboring townships; call 211 to search churches and nonprofits with short‑term camp funds. (in.gov)

Fort Wayne and Allen County

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne: Annual membership $15\ast \ast perchild(\ast \ast$35 for three or more). Some sites provide transportation from specific schools; late pickup fees apply. (bgcfw.org)
• YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne School‑Age Child Care: CCDF vouchers accepted at select locations; contact Child Care Services at 260‑449‑8464. Programs include school‑delay/closure care. (fwymca.org)
• Fort Wayne Parks Youth Scholarships: Up to $75 per child per calendar year for classes/camps, as funds allow. Registration with proof of income is required; questions: 260‑427‑6028. (fortwayneparks.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Y about financial assistance and payment plans; check nearby counties; call 211 for faith‑based options. (ymcaswin.org)

Hamilton County and nearby

• Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville: Membership $75\ast \ast peryear(\ast \ast$10 for teens); financial assistance available. (bgcni.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school about 21st CCLC partners; check neighboring BGCA clubs and city parks programs. (in.gov)

Northwest Indiana (Lake, Porter, LaPorte)

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana: Membership fees are modest (public articles cite about $75/school year; confirm with your local Club as amounts can change). (greatnews.life)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city parks department about camp scholarships; check if your district hosts a 21st CCLC site. (in.gov)

South Bend and St. Joseph County

• Venues Parks & Arts Youth Scholarships: Reduced or free rates for many youth programs for South Bend residents with proof of need (e.g., Hoosier Healthwise, WIC). Apply online; staff can advise which programs qualify. (sbvpa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school about 21st CCLC or partner sites; call 211 for community centers in your ZIP code. (in.gov)

Evansville and Vanderburgh County

• University of Evansville Summer Camps: Financial assistance is available for eligible families (non‑athletic camps); you must apply before registering. (evansville.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the YMCA of Southwestern Indiana about income‑based assistance for programs; ask Boys & Girls Clubs and parks for camp aid. (ymcaswin.org)

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Safety, licensing, and quality checks you should do

• Check the program’s Paths to QUALITY level (Level 1 focuses on health/safety, Level 4 means nationally accredited). (in.gov)
• Read inspection reports for any program you’re considering, and verify its license status. (in.gov)
• Questions or concerns about a program: Call the OECOSL child care information line at 1‑877‑511‑1144 to ask about complaints or how to file one. (secure.in.gov)

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Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask providers to share their nondiscrimination policy in writing and to note your family’s pronouns and authorized pick‑up list. If you ever face discrimination, raise it with the site director and, if needed, OECOSL at 1‑877‑511‑1144. For broader support, Indiana 211 can refer you to local LGBTQ+ centers and youth spaces. (secure.in.gov, in.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask about ADA accommodations, sensory‑friendly spaces, and staff training. Easterseals in Indiana offers programs and assistive tech resources and, in Northeast Indiana, summer day programs funded through Medicaid waivers; contact locations listed on their sites. (eastersealscrossroads.org, eastersealsnei.org)

Veteran single mothers: Call 211 and ask for veteran‑focused child care help and youth programs; many YMCAs and clubs offer military discounts or scholarships. (in.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single mothers: Early Ed Connect is available in English and Spanish. You can request language help when calling 211 or your school district. Programs funded by USDA/IDOE cannot discriminate based on national origin or language; ask for translated materials if you need them. (in.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized tribe living in Indiana, contact your tribe’s education department. The Pokagon Band’s Education Department (serving parts of Northern Indiana) offers youth services, camps, and academic support; staff contacts are listed on their site. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask about SUN Meals To‑Go sites in summer, school bus drop‑offs to club sites, and church‑based afterschool programs. If transportation is an obstacle, tell the provider—some programs coordinate rides from the school. (fns.usda.gov)

Single fathers: All programs here serve fathers and guardians as well. Eligibility and documents are the same.

Language access: When you call 211, say your language; they can connect you with interpretation. Ask your school/program for translation of forms and program rules. (in.gov)

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Program-by-program deep dive

Finding licensed afterschool care fast

• Start with Brighter Futures Indiana: Call 1‑800‑299‑1627 for a free search tailored to your work hours, school location, and budget, or use Indiana’s Child Care Finder to view license status, Paths to QUALITY level, and inspection history. (faqs.in.gov)
• If you need help collecting documents: Text “CCDFDOCS” to 317‑483‑8225 to get document tips (state helpline) and use FSSA’s step‑by‑step upload guide. (content.govdelivery.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your local Child Care Resource & Referral agency directly (link and phone on Brighter Futures) and ask for “school‑age openings this month that accept CCDF or offer sliding scale.” (faqs.in.gov)

Free or low‑cost food during breaks and after school

• Summer Meals: Use the USDA map and IDOE’s locator; text tools and hotline listed above. Many sites host activities. (fns.usda.gov, in.gov)
• At‑Risk Afterschool Meals: Ask your school; or call IDOE Nutrition at 317‑232‑6610 to locate a nearby site. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for emergency food pantries that welcome kids after school; ask if your child’s school has a weekend backpack program. (in.gov)

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Tables you can use

CCDF application essentials at a glance

Co‑pay ranges by years on CCDF (from the 2025 schedule)

Source: 2025 CCDF Sliding Fee Schedule (effective 05/01/2025). (in.gov)

Summer meals—quick ways to find a site

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing or mismatched names on documents: If your name differs across documents, complete the state’s Name Attestation form to avoid delays. (in.gov)
• Choosing a provider that isn’t CCDF‑eligible: Always confirm CCDF eligibility before you enroll; use the Finder or call 1‑800‑299‑1627. (faqs.in.gov)
• Not responding to waitlist check‑ins: You must reconfirm every 90 days; missed messages can drop your spot. (in.gov)
• Assuming SUN Bucks is still available: Indiana did not operate Summer EBT/SUN Bucks in 2025; use Summer Meals sites instead. (in.gov)
• Skipping quality and safety checks: Review Paths to QUALITY ratings and inspection reports for any site. (in.gov)

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Application checklist (print or screenshot)

• Your plan for care hours: Write your work/school hours and school dismissal time to match program hours.
• Documents ready to upload: Address (last 60 days), your photo ID, each child’s identity, recent pay stub or school schedule, any other income letters, and your chosen provider’s info page. (in.gov)
• Backups for verification: If paid in cash or by personal check, complete the state wage detail or cash/tipped forms (links in the official checklist). (in.gov)
• Provider shortlist: At least three CCDF‑eligible programs you’d accept, with phone numbers and hours you have confirmed. (faqs.in.gov)
• Reminders set: Calendar alerts for voucher reauthorization and waitlist reconfirmations every 90 days. (in.gov)

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Ten frequently asked questions (Indiana‑specific)

Q1 — Are new CCDF applications being approved now?
A: New applications go onto a waitlist. Priorities include On My Way Pre‑K applicants, families under 100% FPL, and children of child care workers. Respond to check‑ins every 90 days. (in.gov)

Q2 — What income counts for CCDF?
A: Gross monthly income before taxes for all household members: wages, self‑employment, TANF, SSI/SSD, child support, unemployment, etc., as outlined in FSSA’s documents list. (in.gov)

Q3 — What’s the maximum income to start CCDF?
A: Up to 150% FPL by family size—for example, $4,019/month for a family of 4 (effective 05/01/2025). See the full table above. (in.gov)

Q4 — How much will I pay out of pocket?
A: Co‑pay is a percentage based on income and time on the program. In Year 1–3 it ranges 0–19%, increasing gradually to 0–26% by Year 10+. (in.gov)

Q5 — Can CCDF cover summer day camp and before school?
A: Yes—when the provider is CCDF‑eligible and you have an approved service need (work/school). Ask your provider to confirm. (in.gov)

Q6 — Where can I find a list of free afterschool programs at my child’s school?
A: Ask your school if it hosts a 21st CCLC site; IDOE’s OST page lists current grantees and contacts. (in.gov)

Q7 — Are free summer meals still available if SUN Bucks ended?
A: Yes. Kids 18 and under can eat free at SFSP/SSO sites. Use the USDA map or IDOE locator, or text tools/hotlines. (in.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Q8 — How do I check if a program is safe and high quality?
A: Look up Paths to QUALITY level and read inspection reports on the state site; call 1‑877‑511‑1144 with concerns. (in.gov)

Q9 — My child has a disability. Who can help with accommodations?
A: Talk with the provider about supports; Easterseals Crossroads and Easterseals Northeast Indiana run programs and assistive tech resources. (eastersealscrossroads.org, eastersealsnei.org)

Q10 — I work evenings. Can my child attend afterschool and then be picked up late?
A: Many programs end by 6–7 p.m.; some clubs charge late fees (e.g., $1/minute in Fort Wayne). Ask about hours, late fee policy, and whether a nearby site offers extended hours. (bgcfw.org)

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Reality checks, timelines, and tips

• Processing time: With the CCDF waitlist, timing depends on funding and your region. To prevent delays, upload complete documents up front and answer phone/email requests from your eligibility office within 48 hours.
• Scholarship timing: Indy Parks scholarship decisions typically arrive within about 3 weeks; other cities vary and are first‑come, first‑served—apply early and be flexible on locations. (parks.indy.gov)
• Meal site timing: Summer sites open and close on different dates; check maps weekly and call before you go. (fns.usda.gov)

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Local organizations and support to know

• Brighter Futures/CCR&R: Free child care referrals statewide at 1‑800‑299‑1627. (faqs.in.gov)
• OECOSL Child Care Information Line: 1‑877‑511‑1144 for licensing/complaints. (secure.in.gov)
• Indiana 211: Dial 211 or 1‑866‑211‑9966 (text 898‑211) for help finding afterschool, camps, and emergency resources. (in.gov)
• IDOE Nutrition: 317‑232‑6610 for afterschool and summer meal site assistance. (in.gov)

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What to do if nothing here works this week

• Ask your school counselor or social worker: They often know which programs still have space and can help with applications.
• **Call 211 and ask specifically for “afterschool or day camp scholarships
• Check your county 4‑H/Purdue Extension: Many counties run day camps and sometimes subsidize costs; spots are limited and deadlines are strict.
• Keep documents ready: If a CCDF spot opens, eligibility staff may need updated pay stubs immediately (dated within 60 days).

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About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We specialize in government benefits navigation and keep guides current using official sources only.

How we verify:

• Primary sources used: Indiana FSSA/OECOSL, Indiana Department of Education, USDA FNS, city parks, and major nonprofits (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, Easterseals).
• Update cycle: Comprehensive review at least every 8 months and within 48 hours of confirmed policy changes. See our Editorial Standards for full methods.

Last verified: September 2025 | Next review: April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org (we aim to respond within 48–72 hours).

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Disclaimer

Program details can change without notice: Always verify hours, eligibility, and fees with the official agency or provider before you enroll or pay.

Security and privacy:

• Never share your full Social Security number by text or email with a provider; use official state portals only.
• Watch for impostors: If someone asks for money to “guarantee” a voucher or meal benefits, that is a scam. Report scams to your local police and the provider’s headquarters.

We operate independently and do not guarantee individual outcomes. This guide is informational and not legal advice. See our full Editorial Policy for transparency about sources and updates.

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Sources

• Indiana DOE—Summer Food Service Program and meal locators (2025 updates and finders).
• USDA FNS—Summer Meals Site Finder (state list includes Indiana; updated weekly each summer).
• FSSA OECOSL—Child Care Assistance and waitlist (eligibility, priorities, Early Ed Connect).
• 2025 CCDF Sliding Fee Schedule (effective 05/01/2025; income tables and co‑pay factors).
• 85% SMI expansion for child care workers (monthly SMI chart).
• Paths to QUALITY (quality levels) and inspection reports (look‑ups).
• CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool (IDOE) and After School Snack Program resources.
• 21st CCLC in Indiana (IDOE OST page with grantee info).
• City and nonprofit examples (Indy Parks scholarships; BGCA club fees; YMCA program rates; Fort Wayne Parks scholarships; Easterseals services).

What you do next matters most: pick one action above and make the call or submit the form today. The sooner you get on lists (or waitlists), the more options you’ll have.

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