Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: September 2025

You need childcare that actually fits your work and school schedule. This guide gives you the fastest ways to find and pay for afterschool and summer programs in Massachusetts, with real numbers, direct contacts, and backup plans if the first option doesn’t work.

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Quick Help Box

• If you need a child care subsidy right now: Call 2‑1‑1 (Mass 211) or 1‑877‑211‑6277 ext. 23 to get screened and placed on the statewide child care financial assistance waitlist. You can also apply online via the Mass 211 portal. See the state’s steps and income chart on the “Apply for funds to help pay for child care” page. (mass211.org, mass.gov)
• If you receive TAFDC or DTA cash/SNAP benefits: Ask DTA for a child care referral. DTA can connect you to free subsidized care while you work or train. Call the DTA Assistance Line (877) 382‑2363. (mass.gov)
• Find licensed afterschool programs near you: Use the EEC Child Care Search and pick “Group and School Age Child Care” or “Out‑of‑School Time.” (childcare.mass.gov)
• Free meals for kids in summer: Use Summer Eats to find no‑cost meals at parks, libraries, schools—no ID needed. Call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline 1‑800‑645‑8333. For extra grocery help, Summer EBT/SUN Bucks pays $120 per eligible child each summer. SUN Bucks help line 855‑425‑8770. (mass.gov, projectbread.org)
• Need local guidance: Your regional Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) can help you compare programs and finish subsidy steps. Use the CCR&R finder or call the EEC Contact Center (617) 988‑7841. (mass.gov)

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Emergency Options Near the Top

• If safety is a concern today: If a current caregiver or location is unsafe, remove your child and call 911. For immediate placement guidance and local resources 24/7, call 2‑1‑1 (Mass 211). (mass.gov)
• If you’re fleeing domestic violence: The DTA Assistance Line can connect you to a domestic violence specialist at (877) 382‑2363; you can also request priority for child care. (mass.gov)
• If food is tight this week: Go to a Summer Eats site (summer months) or call Project Bread 1‑800‑645‑8333 for nearest meals/pantries any time of year. (projectbread.org)
• If you’re unhoused: SUN Bucks cards can be mailed to your child’s school through your district’s homeless liaison; or call the SUN Bucks hotline 855‑425‑8770 for help. (mass.gov)

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What Pays for Afterschool and Summer Care in Massachusetts

• Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA) through EEC: State/federal subsidy that pays providers directly for afterschool and summer programs; most families pay a small “parent fee,” and many pay $0. You apply via Mass 211/CCR&R. (mass.gov)
• DTA‑referred child care (if you receive TAFDC/cash): DTA refers you to CCR&R for a voucher; parent fee is $0 during your DTA‑referred activity. (mass.gov)
• School‑based/Community grants: Many programs are supported by Massachusetts ASOST (state line item 7061‑9611) and federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV‑B). These dollars expand free/low‑cost seats at local sites. FY26 budgets: ASOST $8,592,449\ast \ast ;21stCCLC\ast \ast$20,598,667. Ask your child’s school’s OST coordinator about grant‑funded seats. (budget.digital.mass.gov)
• Food support built into OST: At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) and NSLP snacks/suppers provide free snacks/meals at many afterschool sites. In summer, Summer Eats operates free meal sites statewide. (doe.mass.edu)
• Summer EBT (SUN Bucks): Automatic or application‑based summer grocery benefit—$120 per child for 2025—with cards mailed starting June and benefits loaded starting July. (mass.gov)
• Teen jobs: YouthWorks funds paid jobs for youth 14–25, with more than $22 million awarded in 2025 to hire 6,540 youth statewide. Teens can also be junior counselors at camps. Start with your local MassHire Youth center. (mass.gov)

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The Fastest Path: Apply for Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)

Start here if you need help paying for afterschool or summer care.

• Action first: Call 2‑1‑1 (or 1‑877‑211‑6277 ext. 23) to be placed on the state waitlist. Ask the specialist about priority categories (homelessness, DTA/DCF referral, teen parent under 24, or early education staff). You can also request a referral to your local CCR&R. (mass.gov)
• Income and parent fees: EEC sets a “parent fee” based on your income and family size. Many families pay $0\ast \ast ;aboveacertainpointtheparentfeeisabout\ast \ast 7$0. (mass.gov)
• Language access: Mass 211 has interpreters in 100+ languages. CCR&Rs and contracted programs can request translation. (mass.gov)
• Documents you’ll need: ID, proof of MA residency, child’s age, relationship, child’s citizenship/immigration status, proof of income (pay stubs, employer letter, or self‑employment records). If you qualify via DTA/DCF referral, your referral plus ID is enough. See EEC’s detailed list. (mass.gov)

Table 1. Parent Fee $0 Threshold (Monthly Income, before taxes)

Source: EEC “While Getting CCFA.” If your income is above this chart, your fee is about 7% of income. Families with DTA/DCF referral, experiencing homelessness, or non‑parent caregivers pay $0. (mass.gov)

Important update about income eligibility

• What’s changing: On June 11, 2025, the EEC Board voted to raise CCFA income eligibility from 50% of State Median Income to 85% SMI, with final rules taking effect January 1, 2026. Until that date, EEC continues to use current rules while phasing in system changes. (mass.gov)
• What this means for you: If you were previously just over the limit, you may qualify in 2026. Get on the waitlist now so you’re in line when the change starts. (mass.gov)

How to apply (step‑by‑step)

• Call Mass 211: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑6277 ext. 23 and ask for child care financial assistance screening and waitlist placement. (mass211.org)
• Find local CCR&R support: Use the CCR&R finder to get direct help, or call the EEC Contact Center (617) 988‑7841. Regional CCR&R examples: Child Care Circuit (Northeast) (978) 722‑2547; Seven Hills Child Care Resources (Central/Western) (508) 796‑1835; PACE Child Care Works (New Bedford) (508) 999‑9930 x128; Community Care for Kids/QCAP (Quincy) (617) 657‑5305. If a number changes, the CCR&R finder will show the current contact. (mass.gov)
• Upload documents when contacted: EEC or your CCR&R will tell you exactly what to upload. Use the “What Information You Need to Give” checklist to save time. (mass.gov)
• Pick a program with openings: Use the state’s Licensed Child Care Search to filter for “School‑Age/Out‑of‑School Time,” and ask the CCR&R for a list of providers with current openings. (childcare.mass.gov)
• Sign your Financial Assistance & Fee Agreement: This locks in your voucher/slot and your parent fee (if any). (mass.gov)
• Reality check: Waitlists can be long and movement varies by region and season. Keep phones/email current so you don’t miss a spot; EEC texts/email updates. If you get a denial, you can request an EEC review. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask if you qualify for priority (homelessness, DTA/DCF referral, teen parent under 24, or early education staff). Also apply for sliding‑scale seats at local programs (e.g., YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs) and ask about scholarships while you wait. Use Mass 211 and your CCR&R to identify programs that accept vouchers once issued. (mass.gov)

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If You Receive TAFDC or DTA Benefits: Fast‑Track Child Care

• Why this matters: If you’re on TAFDC (cash), DTA can refer you to free child care while you work on education, training, or job search—no waitlist. Typical DTA case decisions are made within 30 days of application. Call (877) 382‑2363 and ask about a child care referral. (mass.gov)
• How it works: DTA sends a child care referral to your CCR&R; you schedule a CCR&R appointment; they help you choose a provider with openings; then issue your voucher. Transportation help may be available if it’s part of your plan. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
If your DTA case is pending or you’re between activities, ask about SNAP Path to Work or other DTA activities to keep your referral active. If denied, appeal through DTA and, in parallel, place yourself on the EEC waitlist via 2‑1‑1. (mass.gov)

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Finding Quality Afterschool & Summer Programs Quickly

• Use the EEC Licensed Child Care Search to find licens​ed school‑age programs (centers, family‑based, and school‑based). Check licensing history and care type. (childcare.mass.gov)
• Ask your school about grant‑funded seats: Many schools run 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) or ASOST‑funded programs with free/low‑cost seats. FY26 Massachusetts 21st CCLC total: $20,598,667\ast \ast ;ASOSTlineitemFY26:\ast \ast$8,592,449. These funds support school‑year and summer learning. (budget.digital.mass.gov)
• Free summer and afterschool meals: Many programs serve snacks/suppers through CACFP and NSLP. In summer, “Summer Eats” runs more than 1,000 meal sites through local sponsors (2024 data), with additional sites each year. (mass.gov)
• DCR Summer Nights (teens): Free evening activities July–August in urban communities—103 community partners at ~135 locations in 2025. Great for older kids while you work evenings. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Check your city’s youth department and parks & recreation pages (many run free or low‑cost sites). Example: Worcester’s Recreation Worcester is free for ages 7–13 (summer 2025: June 30–Aug 8) with meals included. (worcesterma.gov)

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Nutrition Support Tied to Afterschool and Summer

• Summer Eats: Free meals for anyone 18 and under—no ID, no paperwork. Find sites or call 1‑800‑645‑8333. (projectbread.org)
• SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): $120 per eligible child for summer groceries. Most families on SNAP/TAFDC/MassHealth were auto‑issued for 2025; others applied. Benefits issued July–September; save the card for next summer. Contact 855‑425‑8770. (mass.gov)
• At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) and NSLP snacks: Many afterschool programs provide free snacks/suppers if they’re in “area eligible” locations (50%+ of nearby students qualify for free/reduced price meals). Ask your site. (doe.mass.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Use universal free school breakfast and lunch during the school year—Massachusetts made free school meals permanent in 2023, with $172 million in state funding in FY2024 and strong participation growth reported in 2024. (mass.gov)

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Money & Eligibility: Key Numbers You Can Use

Table 2. Massachusetts OST Funding Snapshot (FY25–FY26)

Sources: MA budget sites; EOLWD; Governor/DESE/DTA press releases. (budget.digital.mass.gov, mass.gov)

Table 3. “Who Pays for What?” Cheat Sheet

Sources: EEC/DTA/DESE/EOLWD. (mass.gov, projectbread.org)

Table 4. Sample Parent Fee Scenarios (Estimate)

Source: EEC “While Getting CCFA” (7% estimate above the $0 fee thresholds). Ask your CCR&R to calculate your exact fee and apply sibling discounts. (mass.gov)

Table 5. Key Contacts (Save These)

Sources: Mass 211; DTA; EEC; Project Bread; SUN Bucks. (mass211.org, mass.gov, projectbread.org)

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Regional Examples (How this looks in real life)

• Boston (BCYF): BCYF runs summer programs, including specialized options like Camp Joy for youth with disabilities (ages 3–15). Camp Joy offered door‑to‑door transportation, meals, and on‑site nurses in 2025. Contact BCYF Camp Joy at (617) 961‑6952. Teens age 13 can apply to SuperTeens (stipended leadership program). Call (617) 961‑6946. (boston.gov)
• Cambridge (DHSP): DHSP fills afterschool seats via a spring lottery. For 2025–26, the application deadline was May 11; tuition is on a sliding scale; some programs are free for grades 6–8. DHSP main line (617) 349‑6200. (cambridgema.gov)
• Worcester (Recreation Worcester): Free, city‑wide summer program (ages 7–13); 2025 dates June 30–August 8, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., with breakfast, lunch, and snack. Registration is first‑come, first‑served. Info line (413) 787‑6434. (worcesterma.gov)
• Statewide DCR Summer Nights (teens 13–21): 2025 season ran July–August at ~135 locations with 103 partners—sports, arts, college/career prep; many sites offer free transportation support and activities in the evening hours. (mass.gov)
• Find more: For school‑based OST funded by 21st CCLC, check DESE’s 21st CCLC page and FY lists of funded sites; for ASOST subgrant supports, see DESE grant pages. Families enroll directly with local programs. (doe.mass.edu)

What to do if these don’t fit your town:
Use your city’s Parks & Recreation site for seasonal programs (e.g., Springfield’s afterschool and summer offerings post enrollment windows and waitlists), and call your district to ask about 21st CCLC or ASOST sites. (springfield-ma.gov)

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Transportation to Afterschool

• Ask your program about transport: Some EEC‑funded programs include transportation; EEC has specific safety rules (606 CMR 7.13). If your child receives a subsidized slot, you may be asked to fill a parent transportation request form. (mass.gov)
• School‑district options: Some districts provide drop‑off from school to OST sites (e.g., Cambridge coordinates bus routes between schools and some sites). Check your district’s OST/transportation page. (cambridgema.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:
Ask your CCR&R if there are providers near your route or employer. If transport is the barrier, request schedule letters from your employer for later pickup times, or explore neighbors/parent share pickups.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not updating your waitlist info: If your phone or email changes, you can miss a spot and get removed. Update via Mass 211 or your CCR&R. (mass211.org)
• Waiting to gather documents: Start collecting IDs, proof of residency, and pay stubs now. Use EEC’s document list to avoid delays. (mass.gov)
• Only calling one site: Ask your CCR&R for multiple providers accepting vouchers. Openings shift fast.
• Skipping meal programs: Even if care isn’t sorted, Summer Eats or afterschool meals can cut costs immediately. (projectbread.org)
• Missing SUN Bucks deadlines: Watch for SUN Bucks mailings in June/July, activate your card, and keep it for next summer. Hotline 855‑425‑8770. (mass.gov)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Mass 211 call complete: You’re on the waitlist; saved your Household/Case ID. Support line 1‑877‑211‑6277 ext. 23. (mass211.org)
• CCR&R contact saved: Local office and email noted (use the CCR&R finder). (mass.gov)
• Documents uploaded: Photo ID; proof of MA address; child’s birth certificate; proof of relationship; child’s citizenship/immigration docs; income proof (pay stubs/self‑employment records). If DTA/DCF referral, you mainly need the referral and ID. (mass.gov)
• Program list ready: 3–5 providers with hours that match your schedule (licensed search link bookmarked). (childcare.mass.gov)
• Backup care plan: A no‑cost or low‑cost site (Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, Parks & Rec), plus Summer Eats meal sites for off‑days. (bgca.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Language access and privacy: You can request interpreters and privacy when discussing family composition. CCR&Rs and Mass 211 offer language services; EEC does not share immigration info. (mass.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Zero parent fee possible: Families below the “no‑fee” threshold pay $0; children with disabilities may qualify under higher eligibility rules in some EEC categories. Ask your CCR&R about accommodations and inclusion policies. (mass.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Food & youth jobs: Combine universal school meals and Summer Eats with YouthWorks placements for older kids (paid, mentored jobs). Use MassHire’s youth center locator. (mass.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Safe to apply: EEC confirms CCFA is a child’s benefit and not a public‑charge risk. Language help is available. (mass.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Check your Tribal Nation’s youth programs and scholarships and enroll in Summer Eats/SUN Bucks and district OST. (Mashpee Wampanoag and Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head/Aquinnah operate community resources—ask Tribal education offices for current youth offerings.)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Look for CACFP‑funded afterschool meals at libraries/churches/schools, and rural “grab‑and‑go” Summer Eats sites where available. Confirm on Project Bread’s map. (projectbread.org)
• Single fathers: All programs and subsidies are for any eligible caregiver. CCR&Rs will screen you the same way. (mass.gov)
• Language access: Mass 211 has interpreters in 100+ languages; CCR&Rs can arrange translation; DESE and DTA publish many materials in Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Chinese. SUN Bucks materials/cards are multilingual. (mass.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Get on the subsidy waitlist now: 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑6277 ext. 23 (Mass 211). (mass211.org)
• On TAFDC? Ask DTA for a child care referral: (877) 382‑2363. (mass.gov)
• Find licensed afterschool programs: Use the EEC search tool and filter for school‑age care. (childcare.mass.gov)
• Free summer meals: Summer Eats map or call 1‑800‑645‑8333. (projectbread.org)
• Summer grocery benefit: SUN Bucks $120/child; hotline 855‑425‑8770. (mass.gov)
• Teen jobs: MassHire YouthWorks (paid jobs 14–25). (mass.gov)

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Real‑World Examples (What other single moms did)

• Afternoon coverage while in CNA classes: Mom on TAFDC called DTA ((877) 382‑2363) and received a CCR&R referral. The CCR&R placed her with a school‑age program near the vocational school and issued a voucher with $0 parent fee. She later moved to an EEC income‑eligible slot. (mass.gov)
• Summer meals plus part‑day camp: A mother of two used Summer Eats at a local park for lunch and snacks; her 13‑year‑old joined DCR Summer Nights in the evenings; her high schooler worked a YouthWorks job. Total out‑of‑pocket for meals: $0; earned wages helped cover back‑to‑school supplies. (mass.gov)
• Navigating a disability: A Boston mom enrolled her child with disabilities in BCYF Camp Joy (transportation + nurses on site), while keeping a list of EEC‑accepting school‑year programs for September. She partnered with the CCR&R to secure the right placement. Contact: BCYF Camp Joy (617) 961‑6952. (boston.gov)

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Timelines You Can Expect

• DTA TAFDC decision: Within 30 days of applying. (mass.gov)
• CCFA waitlist movement: Varies by region/season; respond immediately to texts/emails or you may lose the offer. (mass.gov)
• SUN Bucks: Cards mailed in June; first benefits available July; keep the card for next year. Hotline 855‑425‑8770 if your card is missing. (mass.gov)
• Summer Eats: Many sites open before July 4 and run through late August each year. (mass.gov)

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10 Massachusetts‑Specific FAQs

1. How do I know if I’ll pay a parent fee?
   Check Table 1. If your monthly income is under your family size line, your fee is $0. If above, estimate about 7% of income until EEC calculates your exact fee. (mass.gov)
2. Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
   CCFA is a benefit for children. Applying/receiving CCFA does not put you at public‑charge risk. You do not need to provide the parent’s status. (mass.gov)
3. I already have SNAP/TAFDC—do I still need to call Mass 211?
   If DTA gives you a child care referral, you can go straight to CCR&R. If you want non‑DTA child care, also ask Mass 211 to add you to the EEC waitlist. (mass.gov)
4. When will the new 85% SMI income rule apply?
   EEC’s final regulations take effect January 1, 2026. Get on the waitlist now. (mass.gov)
5. Can transportation be included?
   Some EEC‑funded programs provide transportation; EEC has strict safety rules. Ask your provider/CCR&R. (mass.gov)
6. My child needs specialized support. Where can I get help?
   DDS Family Support Centers and Autism Support Centers can help with afterschool/respite ideas, flexible funding, and navigation. (mass.gov)
7. Are school meals really free for everyone?
   Yes. Massachusetts made school breakfast and lunch free for all students in participating schools, permanently funded. (mass.gov)
8. How do I find a program that actually has openings?
   Ask your CCR&R for “providers with current openings” and check the state Licensed Child Care Search daily. Spots change fast. (mass.gov, childcare.mass.gov)
9. What if my teen needs structure and pay?
   YouthWorks pays for summer/year‑round jobs for youth 14–25; grants in 2025 fund thousands of placements. Start with your MassHire youth center. (mass.gov)
10. Where can I get low‑cost enrichment outside of care?
    Use Mass Cultural Council’s “Card to Culture” for free/discounted museum and arts access with EBT/WIC/ConnectorCare. (massculturalcouncil.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), and established nonprofits (Project Bread, Mass 211). It is produced based on our Editorial Standards and links only to official or well‑established sources. We are independent researchers—not government employees. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

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

How to report an update or correction: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified changes within 48 hours (urgent corrections within 24 hours), per our editorial policy. (mass.gov)

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Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you act or spend money.

• Security note: Use official websites and phone numbers listed here. Avoid sharing personal info over public Wi‑Fi. For DTA cases, manage documents through DTA Connect or verified kiosks only. For EEC/CCR&R, use the official state portals and phone numbers referenced above. (mass.gov)
• Not legal advice: This guide is general information, not legal or case‑specific advice. If you need legal help, contact a legal services provider in your area.

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Sources (selected)

• Massachusetts EEC: Apply for funds to help pay for child care; While Getting CCFA (parent fees and $0 thresholds); CCR&R information and search tools. (mass.gov)
• EEC regulatory update (85% SMI effective Jan 1, 2026). (mass.gov)
• DTA: TAFDC overview and timelines; Get Child Care and Transportation Help; DTA Assistance Line; SUN Bucks FAQ and hotline; Summer EBT program page. (mass.gov)
• DESE/Project Bread: Summer Eats and CACFP/NSLP After School Meals; 21st CCLC program and FY26 funding; ASOST grants. (mass.gov, projectbread.org, doe.mass.edu, budget.digital.mass.gov)
• MA Budget FY26: ASOST Line Item 7061‑9611 $8,592,449\ast \ast ;TitleIV‑B21stCCLC\ast \ast$20,598,667. (budget.digital.mass.gov)
• DCR Summer Nights: 2025 program partners and locations. (mass.gov)
• City programs: BCYF Camp Joy and SuperTeens; Cambridge DHSP Afterschool Lottery. (boston.gov, cambridgema.gov)
• YouthWorks: 2025 awards and program ages; MassHire youth center locator. (mass.gov)
• DDS Family Support and Autism Support Centers. (mass.gov)
• Universal Free School Meals in MA; first‑year results press release (2024). (mass.gov)

If you can’t find something you need, email info@asinglemother.org—we’ll point you to the right office or source.

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🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts

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• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 🤝 Community Support
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• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery