Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: September 2025.

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Emergency help now

• If you need a safe, supervised place this week: Call 211 or text your ZIP to 898-211 and ask for afterschool or summer program openings near you. They can search by town and help you apply for fee help. See the statewide helpline at 211 Maine directory. (211maine.org)
• If you need help paying right away: Call Maine’s Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) at 1‑877‑680‑5866 or 207‑624‑7999 to ask about subsidy eligibility for before/after‑school and summer care. You can apply online the same day. Start here: CCAP for families. (maine.gov)
• If groceries are the strain: Eligible school‑age kids get a one‑time $120 Summer EBT benefit (SUN Bucks). Many families are enrolled automatically; the manual application deadline is August 15 each summer. Details and how to apply are here: Maine SUN Bucks. For questions, call OFI at 1‑855‑797‑4357. (www1.maine.gov)
• If meals are the immediate issue: Children 18 and under can eat free at SUN Meals/Summer Food Service sites all summer—no paperwork. See program info at Maine DOE Summer Meals. (maine.gov)
• If you need a list of licensed programs today: Use Maine’s official search tool, filter for “School Age,” “Accepts CCAP,” and your town: Child Care Choices Maine search. Phone help is available at 1‑877‑680‑5866. (search.childcarechoices.me)

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Quick help box

• CCAP application—start here: Apply or log in to CCAP (Baxter Family Portal). For phone help: 1‑877‑680‑5866 or 207‑624‑7999 (Mon–Fri). (maine.gov)
• Find licensed providers that accept subsidy: Search Child Care Choices (filter “Accepts CCAP”). (search.childcarechoices.me)
• SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) amount and deadlines: One‑time $120 per eligible child; most families get it automatically in early June; manual application deadline August 15. Questions: 1‑855‑797‑4357. Details at SUN Bucks page. (www1.maine.gov)
• Free summer meals locations: Maine DOE SFSP overview. Rural “to‑go” options are allowed in certain areas. (maine.gov)
• Help Me Grow Maine (development, behavior, referrals ages 0–8): Call 211 and choose option 5 or toll‑free 1‑833‑714‑7969. (maine.gov)
• OFI general benefits line (SNAP/TANF/MaineCare/SUN Bucks): 1‑855‑797‑4357; district office locator: DHHS District Offices. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)

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Quick‑reference cheat sheet (what to try first)

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Maine’s main ways to pay for afterschool and summer care

CCAP: the state subsidy that can cover before/after‑school and summer care

• What it is: Maine’s Child Care Affordability Program (formerly CCSP) helps with the cost of licensed or approved care—including before/after‑school and summer—while you work, go to school, or train. Providers can be licensed centers, licensed family care, approved license‑exempt providers, some recreational programs, or eligible relatives. (maine.gov)
• Why start here: It’s the fastest path to real monthly savings. Many single‑mom households qualify—even at moderate incomes—because Maine uses 125% of State Median Income (SMI), not just the federal poverty level. Copays are capped by rule. (maine.gov)

Eligibility basics:

• Income: At or below 125% of Maine’s median income for your household size (see table). Copays are capped at ≤7% of income for families under 85% SMI; ≤10% for 85–125% SMI. Families under 30% SMI have a $0 copay. (maine.gov)
• Status: Working, in school, in job training, or a legal guardian age 65+; Maine resident; child is a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen. (maine.gov)
• Ages/coverage: School‑age children can be covered for part‑time (before/after school) during the school year and full‑time in summer if approved in your plan; hours are simplified to full‑time or part‑time. (maine.gov)
• Find qualifying care: Use the state locator and filter for “Accepts CCAP.” Search Child Care Choices. (search.childcarechoices.me)

How to apply (fastest path first):

• Online: Apply or upload documents in Maine’s CCAP portal (Baxter) via CCAP for Families. (maine.gov)
• By phone: Call 1‑877‑680‑5866 or 207‑624‑7999 for help. (maine.gov)
• In person: Visit a DHHS district office; locations at DHHS District Offices. OFI general line 1‑855‑797‑4357 can route you. (maine.gov)

CCAP income guide (effective 10/19/2024; still in use in 2025)

These are the 125% SMI limits Maine uses to determine eligibility.

(Add 3% for each additional family member.) Source: Maine DHHS CCAP “Current Income Guidelines” PDF. (maine.gov)

CCAP copay caps (what you pay)

Maine adopted these caps in 2025 rulemaking aligning with federal CCDF changes. See DHHS rule summaries and CCAP copay assessment guide. (maine.gov)

What to expect after you apply:

• Verification: You’ll upload income, work/school schedule, child identity, and provider choice. If your provider is not yet CCAP‑approved, ask them to enroll (license‑exempt non‑relatives and recreational programs can enroll with an agreement). (maine.gov)
• Payments: Maine shifted to paying providers prospectively based on enrollment (not attendance), which helps keep your slot stable. Hours are billed part‑time or full‑time. (maine.gov)
• Finding a provider: Use the state search tool and the QRIS (“Rising Stars for ME”) ratings; enrolling at a Quality‑certified program can double your Maine child care tax credit (refund up to $500 possible). Learn more: Quality Certificates (tax credit). (maine.gov)

Real‑world example: A mom of two (family of 3) working full‑time with monthly income of $3,200 (~47% SMI) would be in the 3–4% band using the CCAP fee chart; depending on exact weekly income, her weekly copay could be roughly 4% of weekly income and would be paid directly to the provider, with CCAP covering the rest—often most of the bill for afterschool hours. Always check your exact band in the official copay tables. (maine.gov)

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Bold tip: Report changes within 10 days (income, household, schedule) to keep benefits accurate. (maine.gov)
• Bold tip: If your chosen camp or afterschool site says “we don’t take CCAP,” ask if they’ll sign a CCAP Provider Agreement; many YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and rec programs do. (clubaycc.org)
• Bold tip: Upload clear documents and confirm your provider agreement is in place before the start date to avoid delays.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call CCAP at 1‑877‑680‑5866 to check status and ask about a temporary approval for work/school. If you’re over income for CCAP, ask the program about sliding‑fee plans or scholarships (see YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs below), and call 211 to check other local funds. (maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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School‑based afterschool and summer learning

21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV‑B)

• What it is: Free or low‑cost afterschool and summer programs run by school districts and partners in high‑need areas; focus on academics, enrichment, and family engagement. Programs are typically no cost to families. (maine.gov)
• Why it matters: A statewide evaluation of Maine’s 21st CCLC network reported 8,454 students served across sites (with most participants low‑income and/or low‑performing at entry). Availability varies by district and funding cycle. (impacts.afterschoolalliance.org)

How to find a site near you:

• Ask your child’s school office about “21st Century Community Learning Centers” or “CLC.”
• Contact DOE Title IV‑B coordinator at 207‑624‑6709 for district contacts and current funded sites: Maine DOE ESEA Federal Programs—Title IV‑B. (maine.gov)

Typical day: Homework help (“Power Hour”), STEM/arts, physical activity, and supper/snacks through CACFP At‑Risk at eligible sites. (maine.gov)

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Waitlists are common; ask to be placed on the list and request notice for “drop‑in” openings on early release days.
• Transportation home may be limited—ask about late buses or coordinated carpools with other parents.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your school doesn’t run 21st CCLC, ask about other extended learning programs (ELOs) and community school partnerships funded through Maine DOE; they can connect you to internships, tutoring, or enrichment that extends beyond the school day. Contacts are posted here: Maine DOE ELO. (maine.gov)

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Free food support tied to afterschool and summer

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

• What it is: Free afterschool meals or suppers served at eligible schools and centers. Maine law requires SAUs with at least 50% free/reduced‑price lunch to operate CACFP unless they vote to opt out after a public hearing. (maine.gov)
• Action step: Ask your school when and where supper/snack is served; if none, ask why and if the board voted to opt out. Program info: DOE At‑Risk Afterschool. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your school is ineligible, look for community centers (Clubs, YMCAs, rec centers) offering supper/snack via CACFP. Call 211 for locations by town. (211maine.org)

SUN Meals / Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

• What it is: Free summer meals for all kids 18 and under—no sign‑up. Maine DOE lists program guidance and 2025 rates for sponsors; families simply show up at sites. Rural “to‑go” pickup is allowed in certain areas. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If no site is nearby, apply for SUN Bucks (below) and ask about mobile meal routes or “to‑go” options in your county. (maine.gov)

SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)

• What it is: One‑time grocery EBT each summer to help families replace school meals. Most eligible families are enrolled automatically. In 2025, Maine issued $120 per eligible child. Benefits usually load between June 1–15; cards expire 122 days after issuance. Manual applications are due by August 15 if you didn’t get an automatic approval letter. Questions: 1‑855‑797‑4357. Apply via SUN Bucks page. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you moved or lost your card, request a Pine Tree EBT replacement at 1‑800‑477‑7428 or through the Maine EBT portal (linked from the SUN Bucks page). (www1.maine.gov)

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Community programs with fee help

Boys & Girls Clubs (examples in Maine)

• Kennebec Valley (Gardiner/Chelsea/Palermo): School‑year afterschool rate $135/week\ast \ast ;summer\ast \ast$180/week; Teen Center is often free due to grants; locations and registration details vary by town. Phone 207‑582‑8458. See rates and hours: BGCKV School‑Age & Summer and Teen Center. (bgckv.org)
• Bangor: After‑school fees: $20 annual membership, with 25–100% scholarships based on CCAP eligibility; transportation from some schools. Contact 207‑404‑4524 or see Bangor Club’s before/after‑school page. (bgcbangor.org)
• Border Towns (Aroostook & Washington): Free afterschool options at Presque Isle, Sipayik (Passamaquoddy), and Houlton (Maliseet). Contacts: Presque Isle 207‑760‑7447; Sipayik 207‑853‑6161; Maliseet 207‑532‑3407. Info: BGC of Border Towns contacts. (bgcbordertowns.org)

Plan B if your local Club is full or costly: Ask about waiting lists, fee waivers, and using CCAP there; most Clubs accept CCAP or offer scholarships. Check neighboring towns or YMCAs and call 211 for other youth centers in your county. (211maine.org)

YMCA branches

• Many YMCAs offer before/after‑school and day camps with financial assistance. The YMCA of Southern Maine provides sliding‑scale aid; processing can take about two weeks, so apply early. See YMCA financial assistance. (ymcaofsouthernmaine.org)

Plan B if you’re waiting: Ask the Y if you can hold a spot while your CCAP or Y‑aid is processed; some will place you pending approval.

Alfond Youth & Community Center (Waterville)

• Offers licensed afterschool and accepts CCAP and Transitional Child Care (TCC); they’ll help you apply. Start here: AYCC After School Programs. (clubaycc.org)

Plan B: If timing is tight, ask AYCC about short‑term payment plans while your CCAP is finalized.

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Summer camps that prioritize Maine families with low incomes

• Level Ground Initiative (Maine Summer Camps): Places Maine kids at participating camps free of charge through community referrals (school counselors, nonprofits). Learn how referrals work here: Level Ground Initiative. (mainecamps.org)
• Camp Susan Curtis (statewide; free for eligible youth ages 9–18): Tuition is fully covered through fundraising; youth are referred through schools. 2025 sessions ran June–August. Details: Camp Susan Curtis. (mainecamps.org)
• The Summer Camp (girls, low‑income/foster; tuition‑free): 10‑day sessions for ages 7–18 in Kennebec County. See The Summer Camp profile. (mainecamps.org)
• Many other Maine camps offer need‑based “camperships.” Ask directly and apply early (January–April). (mainecamps.org)

Plan B: If you can’t get an overnight camp placement, look for day camps at YMCAs, town recreation departments, and Boys & Girls Clubs; combine with CCAP if the program participates. (clubaycc.org)

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Where the top search results fall short—and how this guide fills the gaps

• Bold gap: Outdated numbers—many pages skip 2025 updates like the SUN Bucks $120 benefit and CCAP copay caps. We cite and link to 2025 state pages. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)
• Bold gap: Vague “call your school” advice—we include direct DOE contacts, law references for afterschool meals, and district office finders. (maine.gov)
• Bold gap: No hard costs—we show real fees from Maine providers (e.g., BGCKV $135/week\ast \ast afterschool;\ast \ast$180/week summer), with links. (bgckv.org)
• Bold gap: Few plan‑B routes—each section ends with backup options that are actually used by Maine families.

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Application checklist

Use this to get through applications faster (CCAP, Clubs, YMCAs, camps).

• Proof of identity for child and parent: Birth certificate or other ID; custody/guardianship papers if applicable.
• Proof of Maine residency: Lease, utility bill, or official mail.
• Income proof: Recent pay stubs (usually four weeks), employer letter, self‑employment records, or school/training schedule.
• Work/school schedule: Hours, start date, class schedule.
• Provider choice: Name, address, and if they accept CCAP (or will enroll); for camps, session dates.
• Special needs/medical forms: Medications, allergy forms, IEP/504 if applicable for program accommodations.
• Backup contacts + pickup list: Names/numbers and photo ID.
• If applying for SUN Bucks manually: School meal eligibility or income documentation before August 15. (www1.maine.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Bold mistake: Waiting to apply until you find a provider. Start CCAP now; you can add a provider later. (maine.gov)
• Bold mistake: Not checking “Accepts CCAP.” Filter for CCAP in the state search so you don’t waste time touring programs you can’t afford. (search.childcarechoices.me)
• Bold mistake: Missing the SUN Bucks manual deadline. If you didn’t get an automatic letter by mid‑June, apply before August 15 so you don’t miss $120 per child. (www1.maine.gov)
• Bold mistake: Ignoring school meal options. Ask about CACFP afterschool meals and summer sites; it’s money you don’t have to spend on dinner. (maine.gov)

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Diverse communities and inclusive options

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many Clubs and YMCAs have explicit inclusion policies and welcoming spaces. For confidential referrals and supportive programs, call 211 and ask for LGBTQ‑friendly youth services in your county. (211maine.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask providers about accessibility and supports; Maine’s QRIS encourages programs to partner around IFSPs/IEPs. Use Help Me Grow at 211 (option 5) or 1‑833‑714‑7969 for developmental and behavioral resources and referrals to inclusive programs. (maine.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Call 211 and ask for veteran family resources and child care help; they can connect you with local supports and scholarships. (211maine.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Language help is available; DHHS maintains language access supports. For adult English programs near you (to help with work schedules and forms), see the statewide provider list from the Office of New Americans. (maine.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Penobscot Nation Youth Program and Boys & Girls Clubs of Border Towns (Presque Isle, Sipayik/Passamaquoddy, Maliseet/Houlton) offer afterschool and summer youth options—often free. Contacts: Presque Isle 207‑760‑7447; Sipayik 207‑853‑6161; Maliseet 207‑532‑3407. (bgcbordertowns.org, penobscotnation.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ask about SUN Meals “to‑go” options and school‑run van routes; combine part‑time neighbor care with CCAP (license‑exempt providers can enroll). Call 211 for rural‑specific leads. (maine.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs and subsidies referenced here are gender‑neutral—apply the same way.
• Language access: If you need an interpreter with DHHS, ask; the department provides language access and ADA accommodation. (maine.gov)

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Resources by region (examples and contacts)

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Realistic timelines and what to expect

• CCAP: Processing time varies by caseload and document completeness. Submitting all documents up front and choosing a provider that already accepts CCAP speeds things up. Call 1‑877‑680‑5866 for status updates and to flag urgent start dates (new job, training). (maine.gov)
• SUN Bucks: Automatic issuances typically load June 1–15. Manual applications are decided within about 15 days and issued by June 15 or within 15 days of approval (whichever is later). Deadline to apply is August 15 each summer. (www1.maine.gov)
• School programs (21st CCLC / CACFP suppers): Sites often finalize enrollment the first two weeks of school; waitlists are common. Ask about projected openings after the first progress report cycle.

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Data points to help you plan (Maine‑specific)

• Afterschool supply vs. demand: A Maine DOE‑linked evaluation documented 8,454 students served across Maine’s 21st CCLC sites statewide (year varies). Educate Maine citing Afterschool Alliance reports notes high unmet demand, with many programs reporting waitlists. Use these as a signal to apply early and get on lists. (impacts.afterschoolalliance.org, educatemaine.org)
• Meals access after school and in summer: Maine requires CACFP At‑Risk in SAUs with ≥50% free/reduced lunch (unless formally opted out), and every child 18 and under can eat free at SFSP sites in summer. (maine.gov)
• Summer EBT: Maine issued $120 per eligible child in 2025; most families enrolled automatically. Benefits expire after 122 days—don’t wait. (maine.gov)

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Tables you can use quickly

CCAP vs. school/meal programs at a glance

Sample provider costs and fee help

SUN Programs—what to remember

Who to call

Fast links

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Ten Maine‑specific FAQs

• Bold Q: Can CCAP pay for my kid’s summer day camp?
  Bold A: Yes, if the camp is a licensed or CCAP‑approved provider. Ask the camp if they accept CCAP; license‑exempt recreational programs can enroll with a CCAP agreement. Use the provider search and filter “Accepts CCAP.” (maine.gov, search.childcarechoices.me)
• Bold Q: What income counts for CCAP?
  Bold A: Gross household income (before taxes) is used against the 125% SMI chart. See the official income table and copay bands. (maine.gov)
• Bold Q: How much will I pay with CCAP?
  Bold A: Your copay is capped at ≤7% of income under 85% SMI and ≤10% up to 125% SMI. Some families under 30% SMI have $0 copay. Check your weekly band in the state’s copay chart. (maine.gov)
• Bold Q: Do I have to wait for CCAP to be approved to start care?
  Bold A: It’s safest to wait, but you can ask the provider and CCAP about starting while the agreement finalizes. Confirm in writing who pays if approval is delayed. Phone 1‑877‑680‑5866 for case‑specific guidance. (maine.gov)
• Bold Q: My school doesn’t offer afterschool supper. Can they do that?
  Bold A: If ≥50% of students qualified for free/reduced lunch last year, the SAU is required to operate CACFP At‑Risk unless it formally opts out after a hearing. Ask your school board clerk for the record of action. (maine.gov)
• Bold Q: When do SUN Bucks load, and how much?
  Bold A: Most eligible kids receive $120 between June 1–15. If you didn’t get a letter by June 15, apply manually before August 15. Call 1‑855‑797‑4357 with questions. (www1.maine.gov)
• Bold Q: Where can my child eat free in summer?
  Bold A: SFSP/SUN Meals sites serve all kids 18 and under at no cost—no paperwork. Ask your town or check DOE’s summer meals info. (maine.gov)
• Bold Q: Is there help if my provider doesn’t speak my language?
  Bold A: Yes. DHHS offers language access; call your caseworker or 1‑855‑797‑4357 and request an interpreter. (www1.maine.gov)
• Bold Q: Are there free camps for Maine kids with low income?
  Bold A: Yes. Look at Camp Susan Curtis and The Summer Camp (girls), and ask counselors about the Level Ground Initiative for placements. (mainecamps.org)
• Bold Q: I’m in a rural area. Are there “to‑go” summer meals?
  Bold A: In some rural areas, yes. Maine DOE notes SUN Meals To‑Go options in certain regions. Ask your district or call 211. (maine.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maine Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program details and amounts can change without notice: Always verify with the agency or program before you enroll or pay any fees. We link directly to official Maine government pages and established nonprofits for the latest information. We do not provide legal advice or case‑specific counsel.

Security note for your privacy: To keep our website and your data safe, do not email full Social Security numbers or full EBT numbers. When applying online, use only the official Maine.gov or known provider portals we’ve linked here. If you get texts or calls about your benefits, verify by calling the official numbers listed above.

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What to do if nothing here solves your situation

• Call 211 and say, “I need afterschool or summer care openings with fee help in [your town].” They’ll search live databases, including scholarships and church/community programs. 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211. (211maine.org)
• Call OFI at 1‑855‑797‑4357 for help with SUN Bucks, SNAP, or to check if MaineCare eligibility opens doors to other supports that lower your monthly costs. (www1.maine.gov)
• Ask your school counselor or nurse about 21st CCLC, CACFP suppers, community school supports, and transportation options; DOE Title IV‑B contact is 207‑624‑6709. (maine.gov)
• Re‑check CCAP if your income changed; a drop in hours might drop your copay or restore eligibility. Use the state income/coplay PDFs above. (maine.gov)

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By focusing on the exact Maine programs, current dollar amounts, direct phone numbers, and real application steps—and backing it with official citations—this guide is built to save you time and money this school year and next summer.

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🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine

• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery