Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Kansas

Last updated: September 2025.

---

Emergency help now

• If you need safe care or food today: Dial 2‑1‑1 to reach United Way’s statewide help line, text your ZIP code to 898‑211, or search 211Kansas.org (statewide resources). 211 can quickly connect you to afterschool spots, summer camps, food sites, and crisis services near you. (unitedwayplains.org, uwck.org)

---

Quick help box

• Best first step for child care costs: Apply for the Kansas DCF Child Care Assistance (child care subsidy) online at the DCF Self‑Service Portal or call DCF Benefits Assistance at 1‑888‑369‑4777 for help. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Free meals after school and in summer: Use the USDA’s Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder and learn about SUN Meals and At‑Risk Afterschool Meals run through KSDE. For questions, call KSDE Child Nutrition & Wellness at (785)‑296‑2276. (fns.usda.gov, ksde.gov)
• Summer grocery help for kids (SUN Bucks): In 2025 Kansas provides $120 per eligible child. Many families get it automatically; others must apply in the DCF portal by August 29, 2025. Questions: DCF Customer Service 1‑888‑369‑4777. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Find licensed programs & check safety: Look up school‑age programs (afterschool, camps) in the KDHE online compliance system. (khap.kdhe.ks.gov)
• Local low‑cost programs: Check your school’s 21st CCLC site list via KSDE, your local YMCA, and Boys & Girls Clubs. Financial aid is common. (ksde.gov, ymcawichita.org, kansascityymca.org)

---

Quick reference cheat sheet

---

How to get help fastest

• Apply for Child Care Assistance with DCF first: It can cover school‑age care before/after school and full‑time summer care so you can work or go to school. Many providers, YMCA sites, and camps accept it. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Layer no‑cost food support: Enroll kids in sites with free SUN Meals and look for afterschool programs that also serve CACFP snacks/suppers. (fns.usda.gov)
• Use school‑based programs: Ask your district about 21st CCLC or district‑run programs. These often include homework help and enrichment. (ksde.gov)
• Ask for scholarships: YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs in Kansas offer financial assistance; ask upfront and show your DCF approval if you have it. (ymcawichita.org, kansascityymca.org)

---

Kansas DCF Child Care Assistance (Child Care Subsidy)

Why this matters: This is Kansas’s main way to lower your out‑of‑pocket cost for afterschool and summer child care.

• Who it can help: Low‑income working families, families in approved education/training, teen parents finishing high school, and families on or recently off TANF. Children are usually under 13; some older youth with special needs may qualify. Household resources must be under $10,000 (certain items like your home aren’t counted). (dcf.ks.gov)
• How much you can earn and still qualify initially: Kansas sets the entry limit at up to 85% of the State Median Income. DCF also publishes “maximum monthly income” figures by family size (Apr 2025). Examples: family of 2 up to $5,171/month\ast \ast ,3upto\ast \ast$6,388/month, 4 up to $7,605/month\ast \ast ,5upto\ast \ast$8,822/month, 6 up to $10,038/month (larger families listed on the DCF page). (dcf.ks.gov)
• Your monthly copay: Kansas calls this the Family Share Deduction (FSD). The exact amount depends on your household size and income on DCF’s F‑1 schedule (updated April 2025). Example from DCF policy cases: some families had FSDs of $90\ast \ast ,\ast \ast$86, or $51 per month depending on their income and review period. Check DCF’s “Monthly Family Income and Family Share Deduction Schedule” (Appendix F‑1) for your bracket. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• What DCF will pay a provider: Kansas sets maximum hourly benefit rates by county and child age. Examples for school‑age children at centers: Johnson County up to about $4.81/hour\ast \ast ;Douglas/Geary/Harvey/EllisCountiesuptoabout\ast \ast$3.65/hour; many rural counties are about $3.16/hour. If your provider charges more than the state maximum plus your FSD, you pay the difference. See DCF’s “Maximum Hourly Child Care Benefit Rates” chart for all counties. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Stability you can count on: Kansas gives at least 12 months of “Guaranteed Eligibility.” If you add a new child, the family’s eligibility stretches so each child gets a full 12 months. Benefits can be reinstated during the guaranteed period without a new application in most cases. Cases only close early for specific reasons like moving out of state, the case head’s death, or income over 85% SMI. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Work/school rules: Under 2025 law, for non‑TANF child care, included adults generally must work at least 20 hours/week unless an exemption applies (disability, recent TANF closure, teen parent finishing school, E&T participation, certain custody cases, etc.). DCF rules also consider the income of a cohabiting partner. (sos.ks.gov)

How to apply:

• Online: DCF Self‑Service Portal (create or use your account).
• In person or phone: Find your nearest DCF Service Center (Topeka, Wichita, Kansas City, Garden City, Manhattan and more) at the [DCF Contacts page] and call your regional office, or call Benefits Assistance at 1‑888‑369‑4777. Examples: Wichita (316)‑337‑7000, Kansas City (913)‑279‑7000, Topeka NE Region (785)‑296‑2500. (dcf.ks.gov)

What to submit (have copies ready):

• Proof of identity for adults and citizenship/birthdate for each child.
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, child support received; SSI and student loans are excluded).
• Proof you live in Kansas and need for care (work schedule, school/training verification).
• If a parent is absent, cooperation with Child Support Services is required. (dcf.ks.gov)

Timelines and payments to providers:

• No expedited issuance: Child care benefits don’t issue immediately; approved benefits load to your Kansas Benefits (EBT) card on the first day of the month, and you pay your provider by phone, POS, or online. DCF sends written notice promptly when it approves or denies your case. (content.dcf.ks.gov, dcf.ks.gov)

Reality check and tips:

• Slots fill fast in late summer. Apply early and ask providers to hold a spot while your DCF case is pending.
• Ask providers if they accept DCF and what they charge. If their rate is above the state max plus your FSD, you cover the difference. Show them DCF’s rate chart if needed. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• For special‑needs care, ask DCF about enhanced/special care rates and what documentation is required; timely documentation within 30 days of application can allow the enhanced rate from your application month. (content.dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call DCF Benefits Assistance at 1‑888‑369‑4777 to check status, correct documents, or add information if your costs changed.
• Contact Child Care Aware of Kansas (resource and referral) at 1‑877‑678‑2548 to find other licensed programs or backup care. (ks.childcareaware.org)

---

Free meals after school and during summer

SUN Meals (summer) and CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool

• What it is: Free meals/snacks at schools, parks, libraries, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and community sites—no application needed for children 18 and under. Find locations with the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder (updated weekly each summer). For statewide support, contact KSDE Child Nutrition & Wellness at (785)‑296‑2276. (fns.usda.gov, ksde.gov)
• At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (school year): Many afterschool programs serve free suppers/snacks through CACFP. Ask your site, or your district’s nutrition office, if your program participates. (fns.usda.gov)
• Income guideline reference (CACFP 2025–26): Free meal eligibility for a family of 4 is up to about $41,795/year\ast \ast ;reducedpriceupto\ast \ast$59,478/year. Programs use these to claim reimbursement; meals at open sites are still free to kids. (ksde.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Check back weekly on the USDA map as sites open/close. If you can’t find a site, call KSDE CNW at (785)‑296‑2276 or the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1‑866‑3‑HUNGRY (6479) or 1‑877‑8‑HAMBRE (6273). (fns.usda.gov, ksde.org)

---

SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) for groceries

• 2025 benefit: $120 per eligible child for summer groceries; benefits load to your Kansas Benefits (EBT) card. Many families receive it automatically based on SNAP/TANF or school meal data; others must apply. Application window (2025): January 27 – August 29, 2025. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Eligibility basics: Children 7–17 in a SNAP/TANF household since July 2024, or students approved for free/reduced‑price school meals in 2024–25 (including CEP schools). Immigration status is not affected. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Where to apply or check status: DCF Self‑Service Portal. Questions: DCF Customer Service 1‑888‑369‑4777. See DCF’s SUN Bucks memos for details. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Didn’t get an auto‑approval letter? Apply in the DCF portal before the deadline and keep your confirmation. If approved, benefits typically issue beginning in spring/summer. (dcf.ks.gov)

---

School‑based enrichment: 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

• What it is: Federally funded before/after‑school and summer programs focused on academics and enrichment, primarily at Title I schools. Programs are run by districts or community partners and often include tutoring, STEM, arts, physical activity, and family nights. Contact KSDE Title Services (785)‑296‑3287 and check the current grantee list. (ksde.gov)
• Important 2025 funding note: There were federal delays in releasing FY 2025 grants nationally, causing planning issues for some programs. Kansas groups are tracking this; check with your local site and KSDE for the latest on start dates and capacity. (kansasenrichment.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Plan B: Ask your school counselor about district‑run clubs, teacher‑led homework labs, and Title I family events; combine with YMCA/BGC options below. If a site is full, ask to be wait‑listed and request referrals to nearby sites. (ksde.gov)

---

Community programs with financial aid: YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs

• YMCA (Greater Wichita): KEY Academy before/after school for elementary grades. 2025–26 example weekly rates: Before School $65–$70, After School $70–$75, Both $80–$85, with fee assistance up to 50% for qualifying families and DCF accepted. School‑day‑out daily fees around $10–$35 depending on membership and program. Call Child Care Accounts (316)‑776‑8842 and ask about financial assistance. (ymcawichita.org)
• YMCA of Greater Kansas City (Y Club): Financial assistance available; families may also use DCF subsidy. Contact the Association Resource Center (Overland Park) and check site‑specific fees. (kansascityymca.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka: Income‑based school‑year fees: for lower‑income “Green Level,” Before School $40/month\ast \ast andAfterSchool\ast \ast$40/month; for higher income “Blue Level,” Before $90/month\ast \ast andAfter\ast \ast$108/month. Summer typically $35–$90/week by tier; Teen Center membership $20/year. Call (785)‑234‑5601. (bgctopeka.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Kansas (Derby/Maize/Wichita area): K‑12 programming with daily warm snack/meal; enrollment opens in July for many sites. Check availability and fees per site. (bgcsck.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for scholarships, show your DCF approval (or pending status), and request multi‑child discounts or payment plans.
• Use 211 to find other local youth programs (parks & rec, churches, libraries) with sliding‑scale fees. (unitedwayplains.org)

---

Tables you can use

Kansas Child Care Assistance: maximum monthly income at entry (DCF)

Source: DCF Child Care Assistance – Maximum Monthly Income. (dcf.ks.gov)

Examples of DCF maximum hourly rates (school‑age, centers)

Source: DCF Maximum Hourly Child Care Benefit Rates (10‑24). Check the chart for your county and age. (content.dcf.ks.gov)

SUN Bucks 2025 quick facts

Source: DCF SUN Bucks news & policy memo. (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)

Who to call for office help

Sources: DCF, KSDE, Child Care Aware of Kansas, KDHE. (dcf.ks.gov, ksde.gov, ks.childcareaware.org, kdhe.ks.gov)

Application checklist (print and reuse)

Source: DCF program guidance. (dcf.ks.gov)

---

Camps, clubs, and enrichment beyond child care

• 4‑H Youth Development (statewide, rural‑friendly): Kansas 4‑H charges a $15 annual program fee per youth, with waiver options and some counties paying the fee. 4‑H offers clubs, camps, and county fairs—often low‑cost. Ask your county K‑State Research & Extension office about scholarships. (ksre.k-state.edu, coffey.k-state.edu, harper.k-state.edu)
• Parks & Recreation: Many cities (e.g., Wyandotte County/KCK) run youth activities and summer camps and offer fee waivers or discounts. Call your local parks department (KCK Parks & Rec (913)‑573‑8327) and ask about scholarships. (wycokck.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 2‑1‑1 to scan other low‑cost programs (church‑based, libraries, community centers) within your ZIP code, and ask about transportation help if you lack a car. (unitedwayplains.org)

---

Teen jobs and paid experiences (ages 14–24)

• KANSASWORKS & WIOA Youth: Free help with paid work experience, career coaching, GED prep, and supportive services (including help with child care/transportation for older youth). Contact your regional Workforce Center or start with KANSASWORKS.com. (workforce-ks.com)
• South Central Kansas (Wichita area): Workforce‑KS Youth projects and seasonal Youth Employment Project (YEP) workshops cover documents you need and match events. (workforce-ks.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Talk to your child’s high school counselor about CTE pathways, internships, and district‑run summer employment partnerships that may still be open.

---

Safety and quality: verify your program and know the rules

• Check licensing and compliance: Search the KDHE Licensed Child Care Facility database for “School Age Program,” “Youth Development Program,” “Outdoor Summer Camp,” etc., and review inspection histories. (khap.kdhe.ks.gov)
• Staff training & health/safety: Kansas regulations include required health and safety training within 30 days of employment and core topics like supervision, emergency planning, and medication administration. (sos.ks.gov)

---

Resources by region (examples)

---

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Know your rights in public programs and schools—state and federal nondiscrimination rules apply in meal programs and school settings. If you face bias, document it and contact KSDE or the USDA program sponsor to resolve. For urgent local navigation, call 2‑1‑1. (ksde.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask DCF about enhanced/special care rates for children who need extra supervision or accommodations and what documentation is needed (care plan, doctor’s note). This can raise the authorized rate so you’re not priced out. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Veteran single mothers or military families: You may qualify for DoD fee assistance (MCCYN) to reduce what you pay at community providers if on‑base care isn’t available. Start at [MilitaryChildCare.com] and Child Care Aware of America; help line 1‑800‑424‑2246. (childcareaware.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: SUN Meals are free to all kids; SUN Bucks explicitly notes it won’t affect immigration status. DCF offers language access on its program pages. If language is a barrier, ask for an interpreter. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Tribal single mothers: You can apply through your Tribe’s CCDF office or through Kansas DCF (or both—ask which is best for you). Kansas tribal CCDF contacts include Prairie Band Potawatomi (785)‑966‑8125, Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas (785)‑486‑0105, Iowa Tribe of KS & NE (785)‑595‑3260, Sac & Fox Nation of Missouri (KS/NE) (785)‑742‑4708. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Combine DCF child care with part‑time programs (4‑H clubs, library STEM, rec centers) and car‑pool with other parents. Ask providers about non‑congregate SUN Meals To‑Go options in eligible rural areas each summer. (fns.usda.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs above apply equally; DCF eligibility is based on household income/need, not gender. Use the same steps and contacts.
• Language access: If you need help in another language for DCF programs (including SUN Bucks), ask—DCF posts materials in multiple languages and can arrange interpretation. (dcf.ks.gov)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not applying for DCF because you “make too much.” The 85% SMI entry limit is higher than many expect. Example: a family of 3 can be under $6,388/month and still qualify initially. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Picking a provider before checking the state rate. If the price is above the DCF maximum plus your FSD, you pay the extra. Ask for the rate sheet and compare to DCF’s county max. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Missing SUN Bucks deadlines. For 2025 the window ends August 29, 2025. Apply even if you’re unsure—DCF will decide eligibility. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Skipping licensed programs. Use KDHE’s lookup to check compliance history before enrolling. (khap.kdhe.ks.gov)

---

What to do if you hit a wall

• Call DCF Benefits Assistance at 1‑888‑369‑4777 and ask for a status update, a list of missing items, or help linking your case to your online account. (dcf.ks.gov)
• Try multiple program types: school‑based (21st CCLC), YMCA/BGC, and licensed family homes may have different hours and openings. (ksde.gov)
• Use 211 to uncover smaller programs (churches, rec leagues, libraries) and ask about scholarship slots. (unitedwayplains.org)

---

10 Kansas‑specific FAQs

1. Can DCF help pay only for afterschool (not full‑day care)?
   Yes. DCF can authorize before/after school hours during the school year and more hours in summer if you work/attend training. Your approved hours appear on the child care plan you receive. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
2. How much can I earn and still qualify?
   Initial entry is up to 85% SMI. DCF posts monthly amounts by family size (e.g., family of 3 up to $6,388/month\ast \ast ;familyof4upto\ast \ast$7,605/month). (dcf.ks.gov)
3. What is my monthly copay?
   It’s the Family Share Deduction (FSD), based on your income/household size on DCF’s F‑1 schedule (updated April 2025). Your approval notice shows the exact amount. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
4. How do I pay my provider with DCF benefits?
   Use your Kansas Benefits (EBT) card by phone, the provider’s POS machine, or online; benefits load on the 1st of the month once approved. (dcf.ks.gov)
5. How long does approval take?
   There’s no “expedited” child care issuance. DCF mails prompt written notice when a decision is made, and benefits (once approved) load on the 1st of the month. Submit all documents quickly to avoid delays. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
6. Are summer/afterschool meals free for all kids?
   Yes—SUN Meals are free to anyone 18 or under at participating sites; no application is needed. Use the USDA site finder to locate sites near you. (fns.usda.gov)
7. Will SUN Bucks affect immigration status?
   No. DCF notes SUN Bucks does not affect children’s or families’ immigration status. (dcf.ks.gov)
8. My child has a disability—can providers be paid more for extra care?
   Ask DCF about enhanced/special care rates and needed documentation; when approved, this raises the allowable rate for your child. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
9. What if my school’s 21st CCLC site is full?
   Ask to be wait‑listed, then contact neighboring schools and your YMCA/BGC. Check with KSDE for other grantees in your area and ask your principal about district alternatives. (ksde.gov)
10. Are there Kansas tax breaks for child care?
    Kansas offers a state Child and Dependent Care Credit equal to 50% of your federal CDCTC for tax year 2024 and beyond (non‑refundable). Talk to a tax preparer. (ksrevisor.gov)

---

About This Guide

• Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Our team uses official Kansas and federal sources and updates guides regularly.
• Methodology: We link directly to agency pages (Kansas DCF, KSDE, KDHE, USDA) and statewide nonprofits. See sources within each section.
• Verification timeline: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
• Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org.

Editorial standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy.

---

Disclaimer

• Program details change: Income limits, rates, and enrollment windows can change after publication. Always verify with the agency or program before applying or paying fees.
• Not legal advice: This guide is informational and not a substitute for advice from DCF, KSDE, KDHE, your school district, or an attorney.
• Security note: For your privacy, avoid sharing full SSNs or sensitive documents over unsecured Wi‑Fi or text. Use official portals or hand‑deliver copies when possible.

---

Sources cited

• Kansas DCF Child Care Assistance, income/resource rules, contacts, and EBT payment info (accessed 2025). (dcf.ks.gov)
• DCF policy updates on 12‑month Guaranteed Eligibility, examples of FSD and reinstatement. (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• DCF Appendix F‑1 reference (Monthly Family Income & Family Share Deduction, revised April 2025). (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• DCF county maximum hourly rate charts (10‑24). (content.dcf.ks.gov)
• Kansas Session Laws 2025 (HB 2027) – non‑TANF child care 20 hrs/week rule and cohabiting partner income. (sos.ks.gov)
• SUN Bucks program details (2025 timeline and $120 benefit). (dcf.ks.gov, content.dcf.ks.gov)
• KSDE Child Nutrition & Wellness contacts and summer meals guidance; USDA SUN Meals & Site Finder. (ksde.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• CACFP income guidelines 2025–26. (ksde.gov)
• KSDE 21st CCLC program/grantee info and 2025 fund delay notice (Kansas Enrichment Network). (ksde.gov, kansasenrichment.net)
• KDHE licensing lookup and facility inspection info. (khap.kdhe.ks.gov, kdhe.ks.gov)
• YMCA Wichita child care programs, fees, and financial assistance; Y Club KC financial aid. (ymcawichita.org, kansascityymca.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka fee tiers; BGC South Central Kansas info. (bgctopeka.org, bgcsck.org)
• 4‑H annual fee and waivers (Kansas statewide and county examples). (ksre.k-state.edu, coffey.k-state.edu, harper.k-state.edu)
• KANSASWORKS/WIOA Youth program information. (workforce-ks.com)
• Tribal CCDF contacts serving Kansas tribes. (acf.hhs.gov)

---

If you need help choosing the right next step, reply with your ZIP code, kids’ ages, work/school hours, and your monthly income range. I’ll map out a tailored plan with the closest programs and deadlines.

---

🏛️More Kansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kansas

• 📋 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