Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Iowa
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Iowa
Last updated: September 2025
Single moms in Iowa need fast, reliable options for after‑school and summer care that actually fit work hours and budgets. This guide pulls together state programs, school‑based options, low‑ or no‑cost community programs, food assistance for summer, and practical backup plans—with exact phone numbers, income limits, real fees, timelines, and how to apply. Everything here links to official Iowa or well‑established sources.
Quick Help Box — Start Here
- If you need help finding an open spot today: Use Iowa Child Care Connect (state search map with live openings). For personal help, call Iowa Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) at 855‑244‑5301 (Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30). Text “IAchildcare” to 59925 for a referral list and tips. (iachildcareconnect.org, iowaccrr.org)
- To lower your child care costs fast: Apply for Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA). Questions or status updates—call the Centralized CCA Eligibility Unit at 866‑448‑4605 or email ccaapps@hhs.iowa.gov. Check your eligibility with the state’s pre‑screen at the CCA Prequalification Calculator. (hhs.iowa.gov, ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us)
- Free after‑school at many schools: Ask about federally funded 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) near you. See Iowa’s 21st CCLC hub and grantee list, then call your district. Des Moines contact: 515‑242‑7561. (iowa21cclc.com, educate.iowa.gov, dmschools.org)
- Summer meals (free for all kids 18 and under): Find a site with the USDA Summer Meals map or call 2‑1‑1, 1‑866‑3‑HUNGRY (English), or 1‑877‑8‑HAMBRE (Spanish). Iowa ran 540+ sites in summer 2025. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Summer groceries, 2025 only: Iowa’s Healthy Kids Iowa pilot provided $40 per child per month in fresh foods at local distribution sites (June–August 2025). See eligibility and locations. Email HKI@hhs.iowa.gov. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Emergency Options (48–72 hours)
- School and district programs
Action: Call your child’s school office and ask about same‑week openings in district after‑school (e.g., Metro Kids Care in Des Moines), temporary drop‑in days, or partner programs hosted on campus. Des Moines Metro Kids Care costs 85/week∗∗or∗∗85/week** or **24/day, takes CCA, and runs until about 5:30–5:45 p.m. School contact listed by campus; central line 515‑242‑7561. (samuelson.dmschools.org, dmschools.org) - CCR&R live help
Action: Call CCR&R at 855‑244‑5301 to get a customized list of providers with current openings that accept CCA and match your hours/route. Ask for programs offering transportation from your school. (iowaccrr.org) - Community programs with no/low fees
Action: Check Boys & Girls Clubs (varies by city), YMCA before/after‑school, and 4‑H Afterschool. Many accept CCA or have scholarships. Examples and rates below. (bgcci.org, blackhawkymca.org, extension.iastate.edu) - Food while you line things up
Action: Use a summer meal site or Healthy Kids Iowa (if active) so kids eat free while you solve care. Sites and numbers above. (educate.iowa.gov, hhs.iowa.gov) - What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the school counselor for 21st CCLC or Title I tutoring slots; ask PTA/Principal about hardship scholarships; call CCR&R again and request help searching “along commute route” and “accepts CCA.” (educate.iowa.gov, iowaccrr.org)
How to Pay Less (or Nothing) for Care
Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA)
Most important step: Apply as soon as you have a provider or are seeking one. CCA can cover licensed before‑/after‑school programs and full‑day summer care.
- Who qualifies: Iowa uses income and activity rules. The state lists eligibility below about 160% of the Federal Poverty Level (or below 200% if a child has special needs), plus work/training hours—there are special pathways if you receive FIP or are in PROMISE JOBS. (ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us)
- Hours rules: Generally average 32 hours/week of work and/or approved education (28 hours if caring for a child with special needs). Job‑search coverage is allowed for a short period. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- How to apply:
Online: CCA application & family portal.
Paper: Mail/fax to HHS CCA Eligibility, 2309 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50310‑5703; fax 515‑564‑4032; email ccaapps@hhs.iowa.gov.
Phone for help: 866‑448‑4605. (hhs.iowa.gov) - Co‑pays and what CCA pays: Co‑pays are based on your exact monthly income and family size. The state publishes the official 2025 fee chart (effective July 1, 2025). Example fees range from $0 to a few dollars per half‑day unit at lower incomes; families in the “exit” phase pay a percentage (33%–60%) of the cost. Always show the provider this chart when you enroll. (hhs.iowa.gov, rules.iowa.gov)
- Graduated phase‑out so you don’t lose care when you get a raise: Iowa’s “CCA Exit” program allows continued help as income rises above the main threshold—up to 250% FPL (275% if a child has special needs)—with a sliding share of cost. (rules.iowa.gov)
- Processing time reality: Reviews are handled by the Centralized CCA Unit. Plan for about 2–4 weeks; respond to any verifications quickly to avoid delays. For urgent need, call 866‑448‑4605 and ask about “pending with provider hold.” (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Find providers who take CCA:
Best tool: Iowa Child Care Connect search (filter for “accepts Child Care Assistance”). CCR&R can also send a curated list. (iachildcareconnect.org, iowaccrr.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your income is slightly above current limits, ask the caseworker about the “CCA Exit” option; if still ineligible, ask your YMCA/Boys & Girls Club about scholarships; check 21st CCLC (no family fee) at your school. (rules.iowa.gov, blackhawkymca.org, iowa21cclc.com)
Free or Low‑Cost Afterschool at/through Schools
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)
- What you get: Free after‑school/homework help, enrichment, and many summer learning programs at schools in high‑need areas. In 2024, Iowa reported 79 sites and served 10,626 students during school year and summer. Programs also engage parents with literacy and education supports. (iowa21cclc.com)
- How to find one: Check Iowa’s 21st CCLC hub and the Department of Education’s Title IV‑B page (grantee lists and contacts), then call your district office or principal for enrollment details. (iowa21cclc.com, educate.iowa.gov)
- Local example: Des Moines Public Schools operates 21st CCLC sites across multiple elementary schools. After‑School Program Manager line 515‑242‑7561. (dmschools.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school if they partner with YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, 4‑H, Parks & Recreation, or a local nonprofit (examples below); ask about Title I tutoring or district scholarships. (educate.iowa.gov)
Free Food and Summer Help
Summer Meal Sites (June–August)
- What you get: Free breakfasts, lunches, or snacks for all children 18 and under—no paperwork. In 2025, Iowa operated 540+ sites statewide and served over 3 million meals the prior summer. Find a site with USDA’s map, text “Food” or “Comida” to 304‑304, or call 1‑866‑348‑6479 (English) or 1‑877‑842‑6273 (Spanish). (educate.iowa.gov)
- Where to look: Schools, libraries, parks, churches, and community centers. Some sites are mobile to reach rural areas. (educate.iowa.gov)
Healthy Kids Iowa (Summer 2025 pilot)
- What you get: For summer 2025, eligible families could choose $40 per child per month of fresh, nutritious foods at local distribution sites (June–August). Eligibility targeted households at or below 185% FPL with children ages 4–18. For site lists, eligibility, and updates, see the HHS program page or email HKI@hhs.iowa.gov. (hhs.iowa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a site is full or far away, call 2‑1‑1 for the closest summer meals; ask your school about 21st CCLC summer programs that include meals/snacks. (educate.iowa.gov)
Health Coverage That Helps Keep Kids in Programs
- Hawki (Children’s Medicaid/CHIP): Many families qualify for low‑ or no‑cost coverage. 2025 income tiers show free or 5–5–20 per child per month premiums depending on tier (caps apply). See the full 2025 medical and dental income tables and how to apply on the official Hawki page. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- WIC (Women, Infants & Children): If you are pregnant or have kids under 5, WIC can reduce grocery costs; 2025 monthly income guidelines for a family of four are $4,957 (185% FPL). Call your local WIC office or see statewide rules. (hhs.iowa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need a pediatric physical or immunizations for camp or after‑school enrollment, contact Hawki/Medicaid Member Services or your county public health nurse via HHS. (hhs.iowa.gov)
What Programs Actually Cost (Real Examples)
- Des Moines Metro Kids Care: 85/week∗∗or∗∗85/week** or **24/day; accepts CCA; hours typically after school to 5:30–5:45 p.m. Site‑specific. (samuelson.dmschools.org)
- YMCA (varies by branch, many accept CCA and offer scholarships):
Black Hawk County YMCA: after school 53–53–64/week, before school 48–48–58/week (member vs non‑member). (blackhawkymca.org)
Quad Cities area YMCA: before or after school 75–75–80/week; both 90–90–99/week. (ymcaimv.org)
Burlington Area YMCA: monthly plans starting 126–126–289/month depending on before/after/both and days per week. (burlingtony.org) - St. Mark Youth Enrichment (Dubuque): After‑school is free for many students due to 21st CCLC funding; summer Heroes Camp listed at $500 for five weeks with limited afternoon care add‑ons. (stmarkyouthenrichment.org)
- Siouxland Human Investment Partnership (Beyond the Bell): Before/after‑school and summer sites across Sioux City area; contact SHIP for current fees and scholarships. (siouxlandship.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who It Helps | Typical Benefit | How to Apply | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) | Working/training single parents under income limits | Pays a large share of before/after‑school and summer care; family pays a small co‑pay based on income | Apply online or paper | 866‑448‑4605; CCA page (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers | Kids in high‑need schools | Free after‑school/summer learning, enrichment, and snacks/meals | Ask your school/district | Des Moines 515‑242‑7561; Iowa 21st CCLC hub (dmschools.org, iowa21cclc.com) |
| Summer Meal Programs | All children 18 and under | Free meals at community sites | Find site online or by phone | 1‑866‑348‑6479; USDA map (educate.iowa.gov) |
| Healthy Kids Iowa (2025) | Families ≤185% FPL (ages 4–18) | $40/child/month fresh foods in summer | Check site/eligibility online | HKI@hhs.iowa.gov; HKI page (hhs.iowa.gov) |
| CCR&R | Any parent needing care | Free referrals to open providers; CCA/transportation filters | Call or text | 855‑244‑5301; Text “IAchildcare” to 59925; CCR&R families (iowaccrr.org) |
Key Iowa Numbers and Links (Keep This Handy)
- Centralized CCA Eligibility Unit: 866‑448‑4605 | ccaapps@hhs.iowa.gov | Fee charts and provider FAQs on the CCA page. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Child Care Connect (search live openings): Map and route‑based filters; shows providers that accept CCA. (iachildcareconnect.org)
- CCR&R Parent Line: 855‑244‑5301 | Text “IAchildcare” to 59925 | Side‑by‑side comparison lists. (iowaccrr.org)
- USDA Summer Meals finder: Map; or call 1‑866‑348‑6479 / 1‑877‑842‑6273. Statewide 540+ sites in 2025. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Des Moines after‑school (examples): Metro Kids Care 515‑242‑7561; DMPS preschool options list (half‑day free; full‑day may use 1 CCA unit). (dmschools.org, preschool.dmschools.org)
Iowa CCA: Eligibility, Co‑Pays, and How to Avoid Delays
Apply first—then shop: Providers will hold a spot if they know CCA is pending.
- Eligibility snapshot
Income rule: Iowa indicates entry under about 160% FPL (200% if a child has special needs). If you ever received FIP or PROMISE JOBS, you may qualify through that path regardless of income. Activity rule: Work/approved training averaging 32 hours/week (or 28 hours with a special‑needs child), or full‑time education; job search is allowed briefly. (ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us, hhs.iowa.gov) - Family co‑pay
Where to find your exact fee: See the official 2025 Family Fee Charts (effective July 1, 2025). Lower incomes show a $0 fee. As income rises, co‑pays are small unit fees (per half‑day) and then, in the “exit program,” a percent of care cost (33%–60%). Show this PDF to your provider. (hhs.iowa.gov, rules.iowa.gov) - Graduated “Exit” coverage
If your income climbs, you may keep help up to 250% FPL (or 275% with a special‑needs child) through the phase‑out program. Ask your worker about “CCA Exit” when reporting raises. (rules.iowa.gov) - Timeline
Processing varies—plan 2–4 weeks. If you submitted but haven’t heard back, call 866‑448‑4605 and ask if your case is “assigned” and which verifications are still needed. (hhs.iowa.gov) - Find providers faster
Use Iowa Child Care Connect (filter “accepts CCA”) and ask CCR&R for a list along your commute. (iachildcareconnect.org, iowaccrr.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied due to income, ask the worker to check the “exit” thresholds; if still denied, ask YMCAs/Boys & Girls Clubs about scholarships; ask the school about 21st CCLC slots. (rules.iowa.gov, blackhawkymca.org, iowa21cclc.com)
Summer: Structuring Full‑Day Care Without Breaking the Bank
- Stack free + subsidized: Use a free summer meal site near a 21st CCLC program or YMCA camp; pair CCA to cover weekly camp fees; add Healthy Kids Iowa food benefits (when active) for groceries. (educate.iowa.gov, iowa21cclc.com, ymcaimv.org, hhs.iowa.gov)
- Real rates to plan around: Many YMCA day camps run 108–108–160 per half‑day week (member/nonmember examples) and around 641–641–741 for weeklong overnight camp tiers (partial subsidies available). Ask your branch about CCA and camp scholarships. (dmia.recliquecore.com, crmetroymca.org)
- Transportation reality: Sites don’t always offer pickup. Ask your school or CCR&R for programs with school‑site care or bus routes; some Ys pick up from schools. (iowaccrr.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Look at city Parks & Recreation youth camps with scholarships (e.g., Ankeny uses free/reduced lunch to qualify), public library summer programs (free), and 4‑H day camps with local fee assistance. (ankenyiowa.gov, extension.iastate.edu)
Local Organizations You Can Lean On
- Boys & Girls Clubs (city‑based): After‑school and summer programs; very low annual memberships; many sites partner with schools. Example: Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa operate multiple school‑based clubs; call the Club listed on their site to enroll. (bgcci.org)
- YMCA branches statewide: Before/after‑school in many districts; summer day camps; scholarships; usually accept CCA. Check your nearest Y’s childcare page for current weekly rates. (blackhawkymca.org, ymcaimv.org)
- St. Mark Youth Enrichment (Dubuque County): Free school‑year after‑school (21st CCLC‑funded) and a five‑week summer program. (stmarkyouthenrichment.org)
- Siouxland Human Investment Partnership (SHIP) – “Beyond the Bell”: Before/after‑school and summer programs across Sioux City and South Sioux City schools. (siouxlandship.org)
- 4‑H Afterschool (ISU Extension): Free/low‑cost enrichment; connect through your county ISU Extension office. (extension.iastate.edu)
- After School Arts Program (ASAP – Des Moines): Year‑round, no‑cost arts enrichment at multiple sites. (asap-dsm.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CCR&R to search for “school‑age only” programs near your school; ask about providers who transport; request scholarship forms directly from Ys/BGCs. (iowaccrr.org)
Application Checklist (use this to apply once, reuse everywhere)
- Proof of identity and Iowa residence: Driver’s license/ID; lease or utility bill.
- Proof of income: Last 30 days of pay stubs; child support received; benefits letters (SNAP, FIP). If self‑employed, most recent tax return or ledgers.
- School/training schedule: Class schedule and credit hours; program letter.
- Work schedule: Employer letter or schedule showing weekly hours.
- Special needs documentation (if applies): For higher CCA thresholds/special rates.
- Provider details: Program name, license number if available, and whether they accept CCA.
- Back‑up plan: List a second provider or school‑based site in case the first is full.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (and how to fix them)
- Missing documents
Fix: Upload or email every verification right away; send in one packet if possible. Ask CCA if anything else is outstanding. CCA phone: 866‑448‑4605. (hhs.iowa.gov) - Choosing a provider that can’t take CCA
Fix: Search Iowa Child Care Connect and filter for “accepts CCA.” If your favorite provider isn’t enrolled, ask if they’ll register with HHS. (iachildcareconnect.org) - Applying for help after enrolling at full private rates
Fix: Apply for CCA first or immediately; ask the provider to hold the spot as “CCA pending.” - Assuming there’s no free after‑school at your school
Fix: Ask about 21st CCLC or Title I tutoring; many families miss these. (educate.iowa.gov) - Forgetting summer meal options
Fix: Use the USDA finder—no paperwork for kids to eat. (educate.iowa.gov)
Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask the program director about staff training on inclusion and anti‑bullying; 21st CCLC sites and Ys typically follow nondiscrimination policies. CCR&R can flag programs with explicit inclusion practices. (iowaccrr.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: CCA allows eligibility up to 200% FPL if a child has special needs, and pays higher “special‑needs” rates to qualified providers. Ask CCA for the special‑needs rate process. (ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your county Veterans Affairs office about childcare assistance during training/jobs, and check YMCA military outreach for discounted memberships.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Programs like WIC and summer meals are available to eligible children regardless of immigration status; language help is available through HHS and schools. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Tribal citizens: If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, ask the provider and HHS about any tribal CCDF assistance available in your area in addition to Iowa CCA.
- Rural single moms: Use mobile summer meal sites, library programs, 4‑H day camps, and CCR&R’s route search to reduce long drives; ask your district about activity buses. (educate.iowa.gov, extension.iastate.edu)
- Single fathers: All programs here apply to single dads too, including CCA and 21st CCLC.
- Language access: HHS and DOE phone lines use interpretation services; Relay Iowa TTY 1‑800‑735‑2942 is available. (hhs.iowa.gov)
Tables You Can Use Right Now
Table 1 — Where to Start by Situation
| Your situation | Fastest first step | Why this helps |
|---|---|---|
| Need care next week | Call CCR&R 855‑244‑5301 and run Iowa Child Care Connect with “accepts CCA” filter | Live openings + human help to phone providers quickly (iowaccrr.org, iachildcareconnect.org) |
| Need free after‑school | Ask school about 21st CCLC; call district office | Many sites are free and on campus, minimizing transport (iowa21cclc.com) |
| Summer food budget is tight | Use USDA summer meal sites and check Healthy Kids Iowa (if active) | Free meals + monthly fresh foods reduce grocery strain (educate.iowa.gov, hhs.iowa.gov) |
| Need lower childcare cost | Apply for CCA and show providers the 2025 fee chart | Cuts weekly bills; co‑pays often 0–0– few per unit (hhs.iowa.gov) |
Table 2 — 2025 Hawki Income Tiers (Medical Care)
| Family size | Free Medicaid (yearly) | Hawki $0 (yearly) | Hawki $10/child/mo (yearly) | Hawki $20/child/mo (yearly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Up to $26,136 | 26,137–26,137–28,327 | 28,328–28,328–38,030 | 38,031–38,031–47,263 |
| 2 | Up to $35,321 | 35,322–35,322–38,282 | 38,283–38,283–51,395 | 51,396–51,396–63,873 |
| 3 | Up to $44,506 | 44,507–44,507–48,237 | 48,238–48,238–64,760 | 64,761–64,761–80,483 |
| 4 | Up to $53,691 | 53,692–53,692–58,192 | 58,193–58,193–78,125 | 78,126–78,126–97,093 |
| Source: Hawki income guidelines. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
Table 3 — 2025 WIC Monthly Income Limits (185% FPL)
| Family size | Monthly max |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
| 6 | $6,653 |
| Source: Iowa WIC guidelines 2025–2026. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
Table 4 — Examples of Actual Program Costs (to set a budget)
| Program | City | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Kids Care (DMPS) | Des Moines | 85/week∗∗or∗∗85/week** or **24/day | Accepts CCA; ends ~5:30–5:45 p.m. (samuelson.dmschools.org) |
| YMCA School Age Care | Waterloo/Cedar Falls | 48–48–64/week | Member vs non‑member rates; CCA accepted. (blackhawkymca.org) |
| YMCA School Age Care | Quad Cities area | 75–75–99/week | Before/after or both; day‑off rates listed. (ymcaimv.org) |
| Burlington Area YMCA | Burlington | 126–126–289/month | Depends on before/after/both and days/week. (burlingtony.org) |
Table 5 — Summer Food Access (Iowa 2025)
| Option | What it provides | How to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Meals (SFSP/SSO) | Free meals/snacks for all kids 18 and under | USDA site finder; call 1‑866‑348‑6479/1‑877‑842‑6273; 540+ sites in 2025. (educate.iowa.gov) |
| Healthy Kids Iowa (2025 demo) | $40/child/month in fresh foods (June–Aug 2025) | HHS program page; email HKI@hhs.iowa.gov. (hhs.iowa.gov) |
Regional Pointers (Examples)
- Des Moines metro: Metro Kids Care (district‑run) and multiple Boys & Girls Clubs/YMCA branches. DMPS 21st CCLC sites are active in several schools; call 515‑242‑7561. (dmschools.org)
- Cedar Rapids/Iowa City corridor: YMCA before/after‑school; ISU Extension 4‑H day camps; check school‑based 21st CCLC in districts like Burlington, Storm Lake, and others listed on DOE’s grant page. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Sioux City area: SHIP’s Beyond the Bell across many schools—before/after and summer. (siouxlandship.org)
- Dubuque County: St. Mark Youth Enrichment (free after‑school via 21st CCLC) plus summer options. (stmarkyouthenrichment.org)
Reality Checks, Tips, and Timelines
- Waitlists happen: In bigger districts, after‑school programs can have waitlists. Apply early and ask to be placed on multiple site lists. Keep proof you applied (confirmation email/screenshot). (axios.com)
- CCA timing: Don’t wait for approval to talk to providers—tell them you’ve applied and ask if they’ll hold “CCA pending.” Share the 2025 fee chart if they’re unsure about your co‑pay. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Transportation: School‑site programs cut pickup headaches. If you need transport, filter for “provides transportation” in the state search, or ask the program about van routes. (iowaccrr.org)
- Meals during summer: Use summer meal sites daily to keep food costs down while you work or attend school. (educate.iowa.gov)
Ten Iowa‑Specific FAQs
- Q: How much can CCA actually save me per week?
A: It varies by your income and provider rate. With lower incomes, co‑pays can be $0; many families pay only small per‑unit fees listed on the state’s 2025 chart. Ask your worker for your exact co‑pay. (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: What if my work shifts change every week?
A: Report changes to the CCA Unit within 10 days by email or phone. Ask your provider about flexible scheduling or “custom care/day rates.” (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: Does CCA cover summer day camp?
A: Yes, licensed programs and approved centers (including many Ys) can bill CCA. Confirm the provider is approved to accept CCA before you enroll. (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: Can teens 13–18 be covered after school?
A: CCA generally covers to age 13, or under 19 if the child has special needs (documented). (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: Are 21st CCLC programs really free?
A: Yes for families—funding comes from federal/state sources; sites may have limited seats and attendance expectations. (iowa21cclc.com) - Q: How do I find summer meals in my town?
A: Use the USDA map or call 1‑866‑348‑6479/1‑877‑842‑6273; Iowa had 540+ sites in 2025. (educate.iowa.gov) - Q: Did Iowa offer Summer EBT/SUN Bucks in 2025?
A: Iowa did not adopt SUN Bucks; instead, the approved Healthy Kids Iowa pilot offered $40 per child per month in fresh foods (June–Aug 2025). (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: My child needs extra support after school—are there programs for that?
A: Ask your school about 21st CCLC and Title I tutoring. For kids with disabilities, CCA offers special‑needs rates to qualified providers. (educate.iowa.gov, hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: I’m in school full‑time—am I eligible for CCA?
A: Yes, approved full‑time education meets the activity rule (limit of 24 months lifetime for postsecondary training). (hhs.iowa.gov) - Q: Where can I get in‑person help applying?
A: Visit an HHS office or call 800‑972‑2017 for assistance; CCR&R can also walk you through provider choices. (hhs.iowa.gov, iowaccrr.org)
What the Top Results Miss—and How This Guide Fills the Gaps
- Exact 2025 documents and contacts: Direct links to the official 2025 CCA family fee chart, Hawki/WIC income tables, DOE summer meal press releases, and Healthy Kids Iowa pilot details—many search results don’t provide current‑year numbers or phone lines. (hhs.iowa.gov, educate.iowa.gov)
- Real prices: Actual weekly/monthly rates from multiple YMCAs and district programs so you can budget now—not generic “low‑cost” promises. (blackhawkymca.org, ymcaimv.org, samuelson.dmschools.org)
- Plan B steps at the end of every section: Concrete backup options when the first door is closed.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Iowa Department of Education, USDA, and established nonprofits. It follows our research standards on source verification, cross‑checking, and timely updates. See our full editorial commitments here: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. This guide is produced independently and is not a substitute for agency decisions or legal advice; individual outcomes vary.
Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.
Questions or corrections—email info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
Program details can change quickly: income limits, co‑pays, and site locations are updated during the year. Always confirm with the relevant agency or provider before you enroll or make payments. Health and personal data are sensitive—use only official portals and secure networks when applying. We link only to official government and established nonprofit sites and do not collect your personal information.
Sources
- Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) main page, application, contact, eligibility, fee charts: Iowa HHS Child Care Assistance; 2025 Family Fee Chart (effective July 1, 2025); Family Eligibility FAQ. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- CCA entry thresholds and pre‑screen: CCMIS Eligibility Requirements and Prequalification Calculator. (ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us)
- Graduated “exit” eligibility (to 250%/275% FPL): Iowa Administrative Rules ARC 6309C (phase‑out program details). (rules.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Child Care Connect (live openings) and CCR&R family search/helpline: Iowa Child Care Connect; CCR&R families page and hotline. (iachildcareconnect.org, iowaccrr.org)
- 21st CCLC overview, Iowa numbers, and DOE resources: Iowa 21st CCLC hub; DOE Title IV‑B resource page; DMPS 21st CCLC contact. (iowa21cclc.com, educate.iowa.gov, dmschools.org)
- Summer Meals and statewide site counts: Iowa DOE press releases and USDA finder. (educate.iowa.gov)
- Healthy Kids Iowa (2025 pilot): HHS news release and program page. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Hawki income tables (2025), WIC income tables (2025–2026): Iowa HHS Hawki; Iowa HHS WIC. (hhs.iowa.gov)
- Local program cost examples: YMCA of Black Hawk County, YMCA of the Iowa Mississippi Valley, Burlington Area YMCA; DMPS Metro Kids Care fees. (blackhawkymca.org, ymcaimv.org, burlingtony.org, samuelson.dmschools.org)
- Regional program examples: St. Mark Youth Enrichment (Dubuque); Siouxland Human Investment Partnership (Beyond the Bell); ASAP Des Moines. (stmarkyouthenrichment.org, siouxlandship.org, asap-dsm.org)
- General HHS help line and Relay Iowa TTY: Iowa HHS site; Apply for Services page (language and accessibility). (hhs.iowa.gov)
By using current, official data—with real numbers, direct links, and phones—this guide aims to save you time and money while getting your kids into safe, reliable after‑school and summer programs.
🏛️More Iowa Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Iowa
- 📋 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
