Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency Help First
- Call 911: For any life-threatening emergency.
- Call/text 988: For the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
- Call DCFS Child Abuse Hotline: 1-855-452-5437. This is “1‑855‑4LA‑KIDS.” (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Call Louisiana 211: Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 for local help with food, housing, utilities, camps, and crisis referrals (multilingual help available). (launitedway.org, unitedwaynela.org, uwcl.org)
Quick Help Box
- If you need help paying for afterschool or summer care: Apply for Louisiana’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) online. Phone support 1‑877‑453‑2721. Apply for CCAP online and read the state’s page for requirements. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- If you need food while school is out: Louisiana SUN Bucks gives $120 per eligible child each summer. Application deadline for 2025 was August 8, 2025; benefits issue starting mid‑May. Helpline 1‑833‑323‑7482. See SUN Bucks details. (dcfs.la.gov)
- Find free summer or afterschool meals near you: Use the USDA summer site finder. Search USDA SUN meal sites. (dcfs.la.gov)
- Looking for a safe afterschool program fast: Start with your school, a local YMCA, or Boys & Girls Club. Baton Rouge Y aftercare runs about 45–45–65/week; phone 225‑767‑9622. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana afterschool membership is $25 for the school year; admin phone 337‑268‑9555. (ymcabr.org, bgcacadiana.com)
- Not sure which program fits: Call LDOE’s main help line 1‑877‑453‑2721 (translation services available). (louisianabelieves.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | What it covers | Key numbers and facts | How to act now |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCAP child care assistance | Pays part of before/after‑school and summer child‑care costs while you work or study | Income examples: 5,173/month∗∗for3people;∗∗5,173/month** for 3 people; **6,158/month for 4; $7,143/month for 5. Processing typically 60–90 days if the waitlist is active. Phone 1‑877‑453‑2721. | Apply online via the CCAP portal and upload documents; ask provider if they accept CCAP before enrolling. (louisianabelieves.com, doe.louisiana.gov) |
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) | Free/low‑cost academic and enrichment afterschool and summer programs at schools/community sites | Offered at selected schools/districts statewide; check with your school or LDOE; example hours in New Orleans: 3:15–6:00 p.m. Mon–Thu. | Ask your principal about 21st CCLC, or call LDOE 1‑877‑453‑2721 and request your local list. Example: InspireNOLA 21st CCLC sites and hours. (doe.louisiana.gov, inspirenolacharterschools.org) |
| SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) | Summer grocery money | $120 per child for 2025; automatic for most SNAP/Medicaid/free‑lunch kids; replacement card line 1‑888‑997‑1117; use benefits within 122 days. | Confirm address with SNAP/Medicaid/school; if not automatic, apply via the state portal during the window. (dcfs.la.gov) |
| Free summer/afterschool meals | Free meals at libraries, rec centers, schools | Search USDA’s site finder for locations and dates. | Enter your ZIP at the USDA finder and call the site to confirm times. (dcfs.la.gov) |
| YMCA and Recreation camps | Afterschool/summer care, sliding‑scale options | Baton Rouge Y aftercare 45–45–65/week plus 25∗∗registration;BRECsummercampsessions∗∗25** registration; BREC summer camp sessions **125 per session (EBR residents). | Register with your local branch early; ask about scholarships. (ymcabr.org, brec.org) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs | Low‑cost afterschool and camps | Acadiana clubs: $25 school‑year fee; some sites waive or reduce fees; statewide contacts available. | Call your nearest club (e.g., Acadiana admin 337‑268‑9555; Metro Louisiana 225‑383‑3928). (bgcacadiana.com, bgcmetrolouisiana.org) |
What the usual Google results miss
- Actionable numbers and phones: Many pages list “programs” without giving actual income caps, weekly costs, or who to call. You’ll find the current CCAP income table and real YMCA/BREC/Club prices below—no guesswork. (louisianabelieves.com, ymcabr.org, brec.org)
- Timelines and Plan B: We include realistic processing times and what to do if a program is full or your application stalls (waitlists are common for CCAP). (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Regional and community options: You’ll see concrete contacts for Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Acadiana, Lake Charles, Monroe/Shreveport, and more. (brec.org, nordc.org, bgcacadiana.com)
CCAP: The fastest way to lower your afterschool and summer child‑care bill
Most important step first
- Apply immediately online: CCAP application portal and call 1‑877‑453‑2721 if you get stuck. Ask the provider if they accept CCAP before enrolling to avoid paying full price. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Who qualifies
- Work or school requirement: You must work at least 20 hours per week, attend accredited school/training full‑time, or combine part‑time work/school; job‑seekers and families experiencing homelessness may qualify. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Age of child: Under 13, or up to 18 with a documented disability. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Residency/citizenship: Child is a U.S. citizen or eligible non‑citizen and lives in Louisiana. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Income: Your gross monthly income must be at or below the state’s threshold for your household size (see the table). (louisianabelieves.com)
2025 CCAP gross income limits by household size
These are the current CCAP thresholds posted by the Louisiana Department of Education.
| Household size | Monthly gross income limit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $4,187 |
| 3 | $5,173 |
| 4 | $6,158 |
| 5 | $7,143 |
| 6 | $8,128 |
| 7 | $8,313 |
| 8 | $8,498 |
| 9 | $8,683 |
Source: LDOE CCAP FAQs and CCAP page. (louisianabelieves.com, doe.louisiana.gov)
Tip on the numbers: LDOE raised eligibility in recent years; the website’s current table above is what intake staff use to screen applications today. If your income is close, still apply and let eligibility staff make the call. (doe.louisiana.gov)
How much CCAP pays
- State maximum daily rates for Type III centers: For context, LDOE lists maximums such as $31.30/day for children ages 3+ (higher amounts for infants/toddlers; specialty rates apply for special needs). Your copay depends on your income and the provider’s rate. Ask your provider for their “CCAP parent fee” after you’re approved. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Processing time and the waitlist
- Timeline: LDOE indicates eligibility is generally determined within 60–90 days when a statewide waitlist is in place. Some priority families (e.g., foster care, homelessness) are exempt from the waitlist. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Required documents
Bring or upload clear copies:
- Identity and age: Birth certificate or hospital record.
- Immunizations: Shot record for the child.
- Income: Last 4 pay stubs and proof of any other income (child support, unemployment, SSI, etc.).
- Work/school hours: School schedule or employer verification.
- Citizenship/immigration: If applicable for the child.
- Provider selection: You must choose an eligible provider (licensed center, family child care, school‑based program, or in‑home). (louisianabelieves.com)
Where to get human help
- CCAP household eligibility line: 1‑877‑453‑2721 (translation available). Email LDEccap@la.gov. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Find quality centers: Louisiana School and Center Finder and your regional Child Care Resource & Referral agency. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing documents: Upload legible pay stubs and schedules. Incomplete files stall cases.
- Enrolling before approval: If you start care before CCAP’s “effective date,” you pay full cost until approval.
- Not reporting changes: Report job/schedule changes quickly, especially if your hours drop below 20 per week.
- Not checking the waitlist status email: If you’re placed on the waitlist, respond to LDOE emails promptly. (louisianabelieves.com, doe.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Call 211 to locate sliding‑scale afterschool programs while you wait; ask about scholarships at YMCA, BREC, and Boys & Girls Clubs. Also ask your school if they have a 21st CCLC program you can join mid‑year. (launitedway.org, ymcabr.org, brec.org, bgcacadiana.com)
21st Century Community Learning Centers: Free or low‑cost afterschool at many schools
Most important step first
- Ask your child’s principal or school office: “Do we have a 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program and how do we enroll?” These programs operate after school and in summer with academics, tutoring, and enrichment at no or low cost for families at eligible schools. (doe.louisiana.gov)
What 21st CCLC provides
- Academic support and enrichment: Homework help, reading/math support, STEM, arts, and family activities.
- Typical schedule: After school 2–4 days/week, often until 5:30–6:00 p.m., plus select summer weeks (varies by site). Example in New Orleans: 3:15–6:00 p.m. Mon–Thu. (inspirenolacharterschools.org)
How to find a program
- Check your district or charter network website: Many grantees post registration info each term.
- Call LDOE main line: 1‑877‑453‑2721 and ask for the 21st CCLC state contact for your parish. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Examples for reference: InspireNOLA 21st CCLC locations and hours. (inspirenolacharterschools.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for a flier: Seats fill quickly. Ask early each semester.
- Assuming transportation: Some sites don’t run late buses—confirm pick‑up needs.
- Not updating contacts: Make sure the program has your correct phone and emergency contacts.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask about school‑run fee‑based aftercare, nearby 21st CCLC sites that accept transfers, or use CCAP at a licensed center near your school. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Summer Nutrition: SUN Bucks and free meal sites
Most important step first
- Check your child’s automatic eligibility for SUN Bucks: Most Louisiana children who received SNAP, income‑based Medicaid, FITAP/KCSP, or free/reduced school meals during the school year get $120 automatically each summer. Update your mailing address with SNAP/Medicaid/school to avoid delays. (dcfs.la.gov)
Key facts single moms ask about
- Amount: $120 per eligible child for summer 2025.
- Issuance: Automatic issuances began mid‑May 2025; approved applicants receive benefits on a rolling basis.
- Deadline: The 2025 application window closed August 8, 2025. Late applications roll to 2026.
- Use‑by date: Use funds within 122 days of issuance or they expire.
- Help lines: SUN Bucks helpline 1‑833‑323‑7482; card replacement 1‑888‑997‑1117. (dcfs.la.gov)
Find free meal sites
- Summer meals: Use the USDA finder to locate free meal sites near you and check serving dates.
- Afterschool meals (CACFP At‑Risk): Many afterschool programs offer suppers/snacks during the school year through the state’s Child Nutrition Programs. For questions, email childnutritionprograms@la.gov or call 1‑877‑453‑2721 or 225‑342‑3720. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Wrong address on file: EBT cards may go to an old address—update SNAP/Medicaid/school records.
- Missing the deadline: Put a reminder on your phone for early June to check status each year.
- Not activating the card: Follow the activation instructions; save the card for next year.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Visit the USDA meal finder and your local library’s calendar—many libraries host free snacks with reading programs. Call 211 for food pantries that welcome kids during summer. (dcfs.la.gov, tpcg.org, launitedway.org)
Libraries, Parks, and Recreation: Free learning and low‑cost care
State Library summer reading
- Why it helps: Local libraries run free reading challenges and events each summer; reading time can reduce summer learning loss.
- Where to start: Check your parish library and the State Library’s hub for themes and links. State Library Summer Reading Programs page. (library.la.gov)
- Local example: Terrebonne Parish’s 2025 program encouraged at least 20 minutes/day with prizes; events ran May 27–July 25. (tpcg.org)
Recreation departments and YMCAs
- Baton Rouge (BREC) summer camps: Community Recreation camps typically $125 per session for EBR residents, 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Many specialty camps offered; scholarships available while funds last. Info line 225‑272‑9200. (brec.org)
- YMCA of the Capital Area (Baton Rouge) aftercare: Registration fee 25∗∗;∗∗25**; **45/week for members and $65/week for program participants; care until 6:00 p.m. Phone 225‑767‑9622. (ymcabr.org)
- YMCA of Greater New Orleans: Branch info and contacts (e.g., Belle Chasse, East Jefferson, West St. Tammany). Example registration fees 40–40–50; weekly rates posted by branch. Branch phones: 504‑392‑9622 (Belle Chasse), 504‑888‑9622 (East Jefferson), 985‑893‑9622 (West St. Tammany). (neworleans.recliquecore.com, ymcaneworleans.org)
- NORD (New Orleans) summer camps: City recreation system partners with schools and nonprofits to offer youth camps (many free or 10–10–30/week depending on site) and stipend‑supported teen career camps. Youth Programs line 504‑658‑3049; registration usually opens at the March Expo. (nola.gov, content.govdelivery.com, wdsu.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for summer: Many camps fill in March. Mark your calendar for early March to register.
- Not asking for scholarships: YMCA/BREC keep sliding‑scale spots for low‑income families—ask directly.
- Missing documents on registration day: Bring ID, proof of residency, proof of income, report card/immunizations for NORD. (nordc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask your parish library about day‑by‑day programs you can string together, and call Boys & Girls Clubs (often $25 for the school year) for afternoon care. (bgcacadiana.com)
Boys & Girls Clubs: Low‑cost, high‑structure afterschool
Most important step first
- Call your nearest club and ask about fee waivers: Many Louisiana clubs keep the annual fee at $25 or lower and include snacks, homework help, and enrichment.
Where to contact
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana (Lafayette area and beyond): Admin 337‑268‑9555; clubs like Granberry (337‑232‑6401), Jackie (337‑988‑2582), Vermilion (337‑898‑9745), Iberia (337‑364‑7040), Opelousas (337‑407‑9962), Natchitoches (318‑238‑2205), Lake Charles (337‑508‑2250). Afterschool fee $25 for 2024‑25. (bgcacadiana.com)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Louisiana (Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Slidell, Westbank): HQ 225‑383‑3928; Westbank front desk 504‑368‑3434; Slidell front desk 225‑877‑1418. (bgcmetrolouisiana.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of North Louisiana (Monroe/West Monroe, Ruston, Bastrop, Homer, Haynesville, etc.): Main line 318‑323‑1644 for Northeast Region; Ruston hub 318‑255‑2225 (for multiple units). (bgcofnl.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming it’s full: Clubs often have rolling enrollment—call mid‑semester.
- Skimming the parent portal: Complete all emergency contacts and pick‑up authorizations to avoid delays. (bgcacadiana.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Ask if your club partners with a 21st CCLC site or nearby school and can help with referral or transportation options. (inspirenolacharterschools.org)
Free and low‑cost enrichment that pairs well with care
- Louisiana Readers’ Choice and State Library programs: Free reading challenges with prizes; check your parish library website for dates. (library.la.gov)
- STEM and literacy grants at schools: Watch school newsletters for tutoring and Saturday academies funded by state/federal grants. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Timelines, Deadlines, and Who To Call
| Item | Timeline or deadline | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| CCAP application review | Typically 60–90 days when waitlist active | 1‑877‑453‑2721; CCAP page (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| CCAP waitlist status | Rolling notification by phone/mail/email when funding opens | 1‑877‑453‑2721; email LDEccap@la.gov (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| SUN Bucks 2025 application | August 8, 2025 deadline (now closed) | Helpline 1‑833‑323‑7482; info page (dcfs.la.gov) |
| SUN Bucks issuance | Automatic issuances began mid‑May 2025; rolling for approved applicants | Card replacement 1‑888‑997‑1117 (dcfs.la.gov) |
| BREC summer camps (EBR) | Registration opens early March; camps June–July | BREC 225‑272‑9200; fees $125 per session residents (brec.org) |
| YMCA aftercare (Baton Rouge) | Runs Aug–May until 6:00 p.m. | 225‑767‑9622; 45–45–65/week plus $25 registration (ymcabr.org) |
| NORD New Orleans camps | Expo usually early March; teen camp registrations often close by May | NORD Youth Programs 504‑658‑3049; stipend options for teen camps (nola.gov) |
Application Checklist You Can Use Today
- Proof of child’s age: Birth certificate or hospital record.
- Child’s immunization record.
- Proof of income: Last 4 pay stubs; any benefits letters (SNAP, SSI, unemployment, child support).
- Work/school schedule: Official class schedule and/or employer letter.
- Residency: Recent bill or lease.
- Provider info: Name, address, and whether they accept CCAP.
- Backup plan: A second choice provider in case your first choice is full. (louisianabelieves.com)
Diverse Communities: Tailored tips and contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your program about anti‑bullying and inclusion policies. LDOE’s call center offers translation and can direct you to programs with supportive climates. Phone: 1‑877‑453‑2721. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: CCAP covers children up to age 18 with documented disabilities, and higher reimbursement rates apply for special needs slots at licensed centers—flag this in your CCAP application. (louisianabelieves.com, doe.louisiana.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Call 211 and ask for veteran‑specific afterschool help and summer jobs for teens; they can filter by veteran status in your parish. Phone: 211. (launitedway.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children may qualify for CCAP and school‑based 21st CCLC programs regardless of a parent’s status if the child is eligible and a Louisiana resident. Ask for a language interpreter when calling LDOE. Phone: 1‑877‑453‑2721. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Some federally recognized tribes in Louisiana administer their own child‑care assistance (CCDF) for tribal members. Call your tribe’s social services office or ask 211 to search “tribal child care” for your parish. (launitedway.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use CCAP with family child care providers or school‑based programs closer to home; ask CCR&Rs for home‑based options and distance‑friendly sites. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Single fathers raising kids: All programs here are gender‑neutral; the same CCAP, 21st CCLC, YMCA, and club options apply.
- Language access: State education call center offers translation services; ask for your language at the start of the call. Phone: 1‑877‑453‑2721. (louisianabelieves.com)
Resources by Region (examples to start your calls)
| Region | Afterschool/summer provider | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge / EBR | BREC Community Recreation Camps (125persession∗∗residents);YMCAaftercare(∗∗125 per session** residents); YMCA aftercare (**45–$65/week) | BREC 225‑272‑9200; YMCA 225‑767‑9622 (brec.org, ymcabr.org) |
| New Orleans / Orleans | NORD youth & teen camps (many free or 10–10–30/week); 21st CCLC sites via schools | NORD 504‑658‑3049; sample CCLC hours in NOLA 3:15–6:00 p.m. (nordc.org, inspirenolacharterschools.org) |
| Acadiana / Lafayette | Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana ($25 school‑year fee) | Admin 337‑268‑9555; club numbers listed above (bgcacadiana.com) |
| Lake Charles / Calcasieu | Boys & Girls Clubs (Cheniere Energy Club, Lake Charles) | 337‑508‑2250 (bgcacadiana.com) |
| North Louisiana (Monroe/West Monroe, Ruston, Bastrop, Claiborne, Lincoln, etc.) | Boys & Girls Clubs of North Louisiana | Northeast Region 318‑323‑1644; Ruston hub 318‑255‑2225 (bgcofnl.org) |
| Statewide | LDOE main helpline (CCAP, 21st CCLC, Child Nutrition) | 1‑877‑453‑2721 (translation available) (louisianabelieves.com) |
School‑Year Meal Support: Afterschool suppers and snacks
- What it is: Many schools and community sites serve free afterschool meals under the CACFP At‑Risk program—no separate income application if your site qualifies.
- How to find: Ask your school/program office or email childnutritionprograms@la.gov for sites in your parish. Phone 1‑877‑453‑2721 or 225‑342‑3720. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Income reference: LDOE publishes annual reduced‑price eligibility scales (e.g., monthly $3,833 for a family of 3 in 2024‑25) that programs use for documentation. Families usually just show up at participating sites. (doe.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Plan B: Call 211 for food pantry delivery options and confirm whether a nearby library partners with Second Harvest or similar groups for snack packs at story time. (launitedway.org, tpcg.org)
Real‑world examples
- A Lafayette mom working retail evenings: She enrolls her 9‑year‑old at the Boys & Girls Club for $25 for the school year, with homework help and a hot snack daily, while her CCAP case is processing. (bgcacadiana.com)
- A New Orleans parent on a waitlist: She puts her child on NORD’s low‑cost summer camp list at the March Expo and uses a free 21st CCLC afterschool program during the school year. (nola.gov, inspirenolacharterschools.org)
- A Baton Rouge nurse with rotating shifts: She uses YMCA aftercare (45–45–65/week) during the year and BREC camps ($125 per session) in summer, then applies for CCAP to reduce costs long‑term. (ymcabr.org, brec.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming programs are free without checking: Even low‑cost sites may have registration fees (25–25–50) or weekly charges.
- Waiting until May to plan summer: Aim for March registrations (BREC, NORD, Y).
- Not confirming transportation or pick‑up: Some afterschool sites require parent pick‑up by 6:00 p.m.
- Letting EBT mail go to an old address: Update SNAP/Medicaid/school records before summer so SUN Bucks cards arrive. (dcfs.la.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Louisiana‑specific)
- How fast can I get CCAP help for afterschool care: Expect 60–90 days when the state waitlist is active; ask if you qualify for a priority exemption. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Can CCAP pay a school‑based aftercare program: Yes, if it’s an eligible school child‑care provider; confirm acceptance with your school. (louisianabelieves.com)
- What if I’m job‑seeking: CCAP may allow a temporary waiver for job search if no statewide waitlist blocks it; ask intake staff. (louisianabelieves.com)
- Do 21st CCLC programs cost money: Usually no or low cost at eligible schools; check with your school for details. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- What if my child needs a snack or supper after school: Ask if your site serves CACFP At‑Risk meals; many do. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Is SUN Bucks the same as P‑EBT: No; SUN Bucks is the new summer program, $120 per eligible child, separate from COVID‑era P‑EBT. (dss.louisiana.gov)
- How long do I have to use SUN Bucks: 122 days from issuance. (dcfs.la.gov)
- Where can I find lists of 21st CCLC sites: Ask your school office or LDOE at 1‑877‑453‑2721; many districts/charters post their own pages. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- I’m over the CCAP income limit by a little: Still apply; eligibility rules and copays vary and the table updates. Programs like YMCA, BREC, and clubs offer scholarships.
- Language help: LDOE offers translation for calls. Phone: 1‑877‑453‑2721. (louisianabelieves.com)
Quick Cost & Eligibility Snapshot
| Option | Typical family cost | Key eligibility notes |
|---|---|---|
| CCAP at licensed centers or school programs | Copay varies; state pays part up to daily max; parents pay the difference | Work/school hours plus income at/under CCAP table; LA residency; child under 13 (or up to 18 with disability) (louisianabelieves.com) |
| 21st CCLC afterschool | Usually free or low cost | Priority to students at high‑poverty/low‑performing schools; ask your school for enrollment windows (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| YMCA aftercare (Baton Rouge) | 45–45–65/week plus $25 registration | Discounts for members; sites vary by school and parish (ymcabr.org) |
| BREC summer camps | $125 per session (EBR residents) | Opens in March; scholarships available while funds last (brec.org) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs | Often $25 school‑year membership | Ages 6‑18; some sites waive/discount fees; includes meals/snacks at many clubs (bgcacadiana.com) |
| SUN Bucks | $120 per child (summer) | Automatic for most SNAP/Medicaid/free‑meal kids; apply if not auto‑enrolled during the window; use in 122 days (dcfs.la.gov) |
Step‑by‑Step: Get set up for the school year and next summer
- This week: Apply for CCAP online; call your child’s school about 21st CCLC; ask your local Boys & Girls Club for membership paperwork.
- Within 2 weeks: Tour two licensed centers or aftercare sites; pick your backup option; gather your documents (pay stubs, school schedule, immunizations).
- By March: Register for YMCA/BREC/NORD summer camps; put SUN Bucks on your calendar to double‑check address in May/June. (brec.org, nola.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use only official sources (Louisiana Department of Education, DCFS, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits) and verify links and phone numbers. See our full Editorial Standards. This guide is independent of government agencies and is not legal advice.
Verification cadence: Last verified September 2025; next scheduled review April 2026.
How to report errors: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Program details change often: Eligibility levels, fees, and timelines may change; always confirm with the agency or provider before enrolling or paying. We link to official pages wherever possible and include agency phone numbers so you can verify quickly.
Health and site safety: For your family’s safety, verify that any child‑care site is licensed/approved, ask about staff background checks, sign‑out rules, allergies, and emergency plans. Keep your devices and accounts secure when applying online—use strong passwords and avoid public Wi‑Fi for applications.
Sources
- Louisiana CCAP, eligibility, and contacts: Louisiana Department of Education CCAP pages, FAQs, and contact center. (doe.louisiana.gov, louisianabelieves.com)
- CCAP processing timelines and waitlist: LDOE notices and FAQs. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- CCAP daily maximum rate examples: LDOE CCAP Informational Flyer. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- 21st CCLC overview and local example: LDOE 21st CCLC library; InspireNOLA program page. (doe.louisiana.gov, inspirenolacharterschools.org)
- SUN Bucks amounts, deadlines, issuance: DCFS program page and 2025 press release. (dcfs.la.gov)
- USDA meal site finder: USDA FNS SUN Programs site finder link via DCFS press release. (dcfs.la.gov)
- Child Nutrition CACFP contacts and eligibility scales: LDOE Division of Nutrition Support. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- YMCA, BREC, NORD costs and contacts: YMCA of the Capital Area aftercare page; BREC camp pages; City of New Orleans/NORD releases and pages. (ymcabr.org, brec.org, nola.gov, nordc.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs contacts and fees: Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana; Metro Louisiana; North Louisiana. (bgcacadiana.com, bgcmetrolouisiana.org, bgcofnl.org)
- Louisiana 211: Louisiana Association of United Ways 211 information. (launitedway.org)
What to do next
- Call CCAP today: 1‑877‑453‑2721.
- Check your school for a 21st CCLC slot: Ask for enrollment now.
- Register early for summer: Mark your calendar for early March registrations at BREC/NORD/Y.
- Use SUN Bucks promptly: Spend within 122 days once issued. (dcfs.la.gov)
You’ve got options. Use this guide to line them up, call once, and move forward.
Learn more:
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- Louisiana 211 | Louisiana Association of United Ways
- United Way of Northeast Louisiana 211 | United Way of Northeast Louisiana
- 2-1-1 | United Way of Central Louisiana
- SUN Bucks | Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services
- SUN Bucks Program Returns to Louisiana for Summer 2025 | Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services
- Before & After School Care Baton Rouge | After School Care Baton Rouge
- Contact | Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana | United States
- Contact Us
- CCAP Eligibility FAQ’s- General Information for Households
- LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ESTABLISHES WAITLIST FOR CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STARTING OCTOBER 1
- 21st Century Community Learning Centers
- 21st Century Community Learning Center – InspireNOLA Charter Schools
- Community Recreation Camps | BREC.org
- After School Program | Youth Development | Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana | United States
- Contact Information : About Us : Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Louisiana
- Youth Summer Camp – NORDC – New Orleans Recreation Development Commission
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- PROGRAM CHANGES ENABLE MORE WORKING FAMILIES TO AFFORD AND QUALIFY FOR CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE
- https://doe.louisiana.gov/docs/default-source/ccap/ccap-informational-flyer.pdf?sfvrsn=3b246518_0
- https://www.louisianabelieves.com/docs/default-source/child-care-providers/ccap-application-checklist.pdf?sfvrsn=94208e1f_12
- Nutrition Support
- Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government in Houma, Louisiana
- Summer Reading Programs – State Library of Louisiana
- After School – YMCA of Greater New Orleans
- After School – YMCA of Greater New Orleans
- Mayors Office – News – Articles – February 2025 – 2025-02-27 NORD to Host Annual Youth and Teens Summer Camp Expo Saturday, March 8 – City of New Orleans
- NORD to Host Annual Youth and Teens Summer Camp Expo Saturday, March 8
- NORD-C to host summer camp expos across city on Saturday
- Where We Are — Boys and Girls Clubs of North Louisiana
- Louisiana Readers’ Choice – State Library of Louisiana
- LOUISIANA AWARDED $70 MILLION TO ACCELERATE STUDENT READING
- LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ESTABLISHES WAITLIST FOR CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STARTING OCTOBER 1
- Summer Camps | BREC.org
- DEPARTMENT SEEKS APPLICATIONS FOR CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM INSTITUTIONS
- SUN Bucks | Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services
🏛️More Louisiana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Louisiana
- 📋 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
