Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Michigan

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

• If you need immediate food today: Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑844‑875‑9211 to locate free afterschool or summer meals and local pantries near you. Michigan 2‑1‑1 is 24/7 with language support. (mi211.org)
• If you are in crisis or overwhelmed: Call or text 988 for free, confidential help any time. (michigan.gov)

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Quick help box

• Apply for child care help now: Use MI Bridges — Apply for Child Care Assistance. You can file an application in about 20 minutes and upload documents from your phone. (michigan.gov)
• Find licensed afterschool or summer care fast: Search Great Start to Quality — Michigan’s official child care finder, or call the GSQ helpline at 1‑877‑614‑7328 for live help. (greatstarttoquality.org)
• Free afterschool programs (many with snacks/supper) near schools: Ask your school about 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) or check the state’s 2024‑25 participant lists. (michigan.gov)
• Summer groceries for school‑age kids: Eligible families get $120 per child through Michigan Summer EBT/SUN Bucks; benefits expire 122 days after issuance. Apply or learn more at MDHHS Summer EBT. (michigan.gov)
• Free summer meals: Use the Meet Up and Eat Up locator map to find sites; many areas offer “Meals‑To‑Go” weekly boxes in rural communities. Info line 517‑241‑5374. (michigan.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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The fastest path to lower costs for school‑age care

Step 1 — Apply for Michigan’s Child Development & Care (CDC) child care subsidy

What it covers: Licensed before‑school, after‑school, non‑school days, and many summer programs; also family/friend/neighbor care that enrolls as license‑exempt. (michigan.gov)

Where to apply: MI Bridges online or at your county MDHHS office. Track messages in your MI Bridges account and respond quickly to requests for “proofs.” (michigan.gov)

Who qualifies: Parents who are working or in approved education/training and meet income limits. Michigan’s CDC entrance income limit is set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) by state law. (legislature.mi.gov)

2025 entrance income limits at 200% FPG (Michigan uses the 48‑state guidelines)

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (ASPE); Michigan budget boilerplate sets entry at 200% FPG. (aspe.hhs.gov, legislature.mi.gov)

Family costs: Michigan uses a sliding “Family Contribution (FC)” per child every two weeks, with ranges shown on the state’s income/FC chart. Licensed programs rated higher in Great Start to Quality may have lower or no FC deductions. Check the current “Income Eligibility Scale & Family Contribution” chart. (michigan.gov)

Provider payment policy highlights:

• Licensed providers bill based on enrollment; license‑exempt providers bill based on attendance. (michigan.gov)
• 2024‑25 provider rates were increased; always ask the provider if they accept the CDC scholarship and whether any remaining balance is your responsibility after the state payment. (michigan.gov)

Documents you’ll likely need:

• Photo ID, proof of Michigan residency, and child’s birthdate record.
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs or award letters).
• Work/school schedule.
• Provider Verification form (DHS‑4025) — the form was updated in June 2025 and no longer requires the provider’s signature. Submit it quickly so your provider can be linked to your case. (michigan.gov)

How to pick a program: Use Great Start to Quality search and ask programs if they accept the CDC scholarship. If you prefer a trusted relative or friend, ask them to enroll as a license‑exempt provider and complete the required one‑time preservice training. (greatstarttoquality.org, michigan.gov)

Timeline reality: Online application is same‑day; approval can take several weeks and depends on how fast proofs are submitted. Keep copies of everything and respond to messages fast in MI Bridges. You can also contact your county MDHHS office if you haven’t heard back. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income or need help while your case is pending, skip to MI Tri‑Share below, ask your school about 21st CCLC, call 2‑1‑1, and check for sliding‑fee assistance at your local YMCA or Boys & Girls Club. (mi211.org, ymcadetroit.org, bgclubflint.org)

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Step 2 — Ask your employer about MI Tri‑Share

What it is: An employer benefit where the cost of licensed child care is split three ways — one‑third each by the state, your employer, and you. As of May 2025, eligibility expanded to households up to 400% FPG (about $128,600 for a family of four). (michigan.gov)

Why it helps single moms: If you don’t qualify for CDC because your income is above 200% FPG or you’re waiting on a decision, Tri‑Share can drop your monthly cost substantially if your employer participates.

How to start: Share the state’s MI Tri‑Share info with HR and ask if they partner with a regional facilitator. The program operates in every county, with over 250 employers and nearly 1,000 children served to date. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer doesn’t participate, ask them to connect with your region’s facilitator, and in the meantime, use Great Start to Quality to find lower‑cost community options and call 2‑1‑1 for scholarships in your county. (greatstarttoquality.org, mi211.org)

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Step 3 — Leverage no‑cost afterschool options first

21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

What it offers: Free afterschool and summer learning in high‑need school communities; includes academics, enrichment, and often snacks/supper through federal nutrition programs. (michigan.gov)

How to find: Contact your school office and ask for the 21st CCLC site coordinator, or check the state’s 2024‑25 grantee lists. Examples include Muskegon Public Schools’ $900,000/year OST investment and GRPS’s LOOP program with transportation for regular attendees. (michigan.gov, grps.org)

Phone/email for program questions: 21stcclc@michigan.gov (MDE/MiLEAP program team). (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your district about other OST grants, check the Boys & Girls Club/YMCA nearby, and use the CDC subsidy for school‑age care that isn’t free. (bgclubflint.org, ymcadetroit.org)

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Food help that makes afterschool and summer affordable

Afterschool meals and snacks during the school year

At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP): Many school‑based and community programs serve a free supper and/or snack to children in eligible neighborhoods when they attend organized afterschool activities. Participation has grown statewide. Families don’t apply — kids eat where the site operates. For details, contact MDE CACFP at 517‑241‑5353 or mde‑cacfp@michigan.gov. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child’s program doesn’t offer meals, ask the site to connect with MDE Nutrition Services about CACFP, and keep snacks in backpacks as a backup.

Summer meals

Meet Up and Eat Up (Summer Food Service Program): Free meals for kids 18 and under at parks, libraries, schools, and community sites. Rural areas may offer SUN Meals To‑Go weekly boxes. Use the locator map and check schedules. Info line 517‑241‑5374. (michigan.gov)

Summer EBT (SUN Bucks): Families at or below 185% FPG (or categorically eligible) get $120 per child loaded on an EBT card; benefits expire after 122 days if not used. Some families are auto‑enrolled via SNAP/TANF/Medicaid; others apply through MI Bridges. MDHHS emphasizes this does not affect immigration status. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to find mobile pantries and food banks near you the same day. (mi211.org)

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What it actually costs right now — real Michigan examples

Tip for single moms: Stack programs. For example, free 21st CCLC or Boys & Girls Club until 6‑7 p.m., and a low‑cost late pickup at a YMCA site one or two evenings if your shift runs long.

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Using the state’s tools to find safe options

• Great Start to Quality search: Compare licensed programs, see quality levels, and filter for “school‑age only” or summer camps that accept the CDC subsidy. Phone 1‑877‑614‑7328 for help. (greatstarttoquality.org)
• Children’s Camps license lookup: Verify that a day or resident camp is licensed; search by county or camp name and see permitted high‑adventure activities (archery, ropes, zipline, etc.). (campsearch.apps.lara.state.mi.us)
• Child Care Licensing rules: Michigan updated center licensing rules in 2025; use licensed care whenever possible for safety and to maximize eligibility for subsidies. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t find a licensed spot nearby, ask a trusted friend/relative to enroll as a license‑exempt provider under CDC and complete the required preservice training (LEPPT). This route is often the fastest way to cover care for non‑traditional hours. (michigan.gov)

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How to apply — step‑by‑step with documents

• Create or log in to MI Bridges: Have your ID and a selfie‑style photo ready for identity proofing. (michigan.gov)
• Complete the CDC application: List each child who needs care, your employer or school, and your typical weekly care schedule.
• Upload proofs within a few days:
  • Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs or award letters)
  • Work/school schedule (statement from employer or class schedule)
  • Provider info form (DHS‑4025) so the state can pay your provider; updated June 2025. (michigan.gov)
• Choose a provider: If using licensed care, sign the enrollment agreement. If using license‑exempt care, your caregiver must complete preservice training and pass background checks before payment can start. (michigan.gov)
• Track messages: Check your MI Bridges account and voicemail; respond fast to avoid delays. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the portal is slow or you need in‑person help, take your proofs to your county MDHHS office; get a stamped copy or confirmation page. You can also ask a community partner to help you submit documents. (michigan.gov)

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Michigan programs single moms should know about

CDC child care scholarship — fast facts

• Entrance income limit: 200% FPG (see table above). (legislature.mi.gov)
• Family contribution: Sliding per child deduction each two‑week pay period; see the state’s FC chart for current brackets. (michigan.gov)
• Billing: Licensed providers bill on enrollment; license‑exempt on attendance. (michigan.gov)
• Help line for providers/parents: 866‑990‑3227 (posted on CDC provider page). (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try MI Tri‑Share through your employer, ask your school for 21st CCLC, and call 2‑1‑1 to locate sliding‑fee programs. (michigan.gov, mi211.org)

MI Tri‑Share — fast facts

• Who pays: State, employer, and you — each one‑third. (michigan.gov)
• Income cap: Up to 400% FPG as of May 2025 (e.g., $128,600 for a family of four). (michigan.gov)
• Coverage: Licensed child care (including school‑age care) statewide via regional facilitators. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer isn’t on board yet, share the state press release and ask HR to connect with your region. Meanwhile, lean on 21st CCLC, Boys & Girls Clubs, and CDC subsidy. (michigan.gov, bgclubflint.org)

21st CCLC — fast facts

• Cost: Typically free to families; funded by federal grants. (michigan.gov)
• Hours: After school four days a week is common; many programs also run 4‑6 weeks in summer. Examples include Muskegon’s five‑year grant and GRPS LOOP with transportation. (michigan.gov, grps.org)
• Meals: Sites often serve supper and/or snack through federal nutrition programs. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal about other OST grants; if no slots, consider CDC‑funded aftercare at a licensed program nearby.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the Provider Verification form (DHS‑4025): Without it, the state can’t pay your provider. Use the updated June 2025 form. (michigan.gov)
• Choosing a program that doesn’t accept the CDC scholarship: Always ask first, or be ready to cover any difference after the state rate. (michigan.gov)
• Not verifying camp licensing: Use the state camp search before paying deposits. (campsearch.apps.lara.state.mi.us)
• Missing Summer EBT deadlines: Benefits expire 122 days after issuance; set a phone reminder. (michigan.gov)
• Not stacking programs: A free 21st CCLC site plus a few days of low‑cost late pickup at a licensed program can save hundreds per month. (michigan.gov)

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Plan B options if you still can’t find care

• License‑exempt caregiver you trust: Ask a relative/friend to enroll under CDC and complete the required preservice training (online). This can be the fastest bridge solution. (michigan.gov)
• Boys & Girls Clubs: Many Michigan Club sites are free or very low cost; Greater Flint is currently free with meals included. 810‑249‑3413. (bgclubflint.org)
• YMCA financial assistance: Most Michigan YMCAs offer sliding‑fee aid; example family membership $43/mo for qualifying incomes in metro Detroit. Decisions usually within two weeks. (ymcadetroit.org)
• 2‑1‑1: Ask for “after‑school programs,” “youth camps,” or “scholarships” for your county. (mi211.org)

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Diverse communities — specific tips and doors to knock

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safe, affirming programs and ask sites about anti‑bullying policies and staff training. If you need help screening options, call 1‑877‑614‑7328 and ask GSQ to suggest inclusive providers in your ZIP code. (greatstarttoquality.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Start with licensed programs (better staff‑to‑child ratios and training) and ask about reasonable accommodation plans. Use GSQ to filter for experience with special needs and call 2‑1‑1 for respite or inclusive camp options. (greatstarttoquality.org, mi211.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Check with your local YMCA and 2‑1‑1 for military/veteran discounts on youth programs; also ask your employer about MI Tri‑Share. (ymcadetroit.org, mi211.org, michigan.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Use language access services available on Michigan state sites and hotlines; ask schools about 21st CCLC and free meals. MDHHS confirms Summer EBT does not affect immigration status. (michigan.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Ask your Tribe about CCDF child care assistance in addition to the state CDC program, and use Meet Up and Eat Up sites in your area. (michigan.gov)
• Rural single moms: Look for SUN Meals To‑Go (weekly boxes), and consider license‑exempt caregivers enrolled under CDC when no licensed slots exist nearby. (michigan.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs here apply equally — CDC, Tri‑Share, 21st CCLC, Summer EBT, and meals sites.
• Language access: State agencies provide language support; when calling 2‑1‑1 or 988, say your preferred language first. (mi211.org, michigan.gov)

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Example scenarios (so you can copy the steps)

• Example — Maria in Detroit: Two kids (ages 7 and 10). Gross income $4,100/mo\ast \ast .Sheappliesfor\ast \ast CDC\ast \ast (under\ast \ast$4,442/mo threshold for a family of 3 in 2025), uploads proofs, and completes the DHS‑4025 so her aftercare provider can be paid. She enrolls her kids in a nearby 21st CCLC program four days a week and uses licensed aftercare with CDC only on Fridays. Summer: She uses Meet Up & Eat Up for free lunches and receives $120 per child in Summer EBT. (aspe.hhs.gov, michigan.gov)
• Example — Kiara in Grand Rapids: One 8‑year‑old; income just above CDC. She asks her employer to join MI Tri‑Share after showing the state program page; while HR explores it, she enrolls in LOOP (free) four days per week and asks the YMCA about scholarship for a Friday late‑pickup block. (michigan.gov, grps.org, ymcadetroit.org)

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Quick application checklist

• Proof of identity and Michigan address: Driver’s license, State ID, lease or utility bill.
• Income documents: Pay stubs (last 30 days), child support received, or benefit letters.
• Work/school schedule: Employer letter or school schedule.
• Provider form: DHS‑4025 (updated June 2025) — submit ASAP. (michigan.gov)
• Backup plan: Ask a trusted relative/friend to complete license‑exempt enrollment if your licensed slot has a waitlist. (michigan.gov)

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FAQs for single mothers in Michigan

1. What income qualifies my family for the CDC child care subsidy in 2025: Michigan’s entrance limit is 200% FPG. That’s $53,300/year\ast \ast forafamilyofthreeand\ast \ast$64,300/year for four in 2025. (legislature.mi.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
2. Does CDC cover school‑age care like after school and summer: Yes — licensed before/after care, non‑school days, and many summer programs are covered; license‑exempt care can be covered if the caregiver enrolls. (michigan.gov)
3. How much will I pay each pay period: Families may have a Family Contribution per child every two weeks; the amount depends on your income bracket. See the current state chart and ask your provider how they apply it. (michigan.gov)
4. My employer doesn’t offer child care help — what can I ask for: Share information on MI Tri‑Share (state/employer/parent split). Eligibility expanded in May 2025 to 400% FPG. (michigan.gov)
5. Are there truly free afterschool programs: Yes — 21st CCLC sites at many schools are free and often include a snack/supper. Ask your school or check the state grantee lists. (michigan.gov)
6. Where can my kids eat free in summer: Use the Meet Up and Eat Up map; rural areas may offer weekly Meals‑To‑Go. Info line 517‑241‑5374. (michigan.gov)
7. What is Summer EBT and who gets it: It’s $120 per child for groceries; many students qualify automatically, others apply in MI Bridges. Benefits expire 122 days after load date. (michigan.gov)
8. How do I make sure a camp is safe: Search the Children’s Camps license database before paying deposits. (campsearch.apps.lara.state.mi.us)
9. Can I get help finding a program in my language: Yes — 2‑1‑1 and state hotlines offer language support; GSQ can help you find providers and explain options. 1‑877‑614‑7328. (mi211.org, greatstarttoquality.org)
10. What if I can’t get a licensed spot near me: Consider a license‑exempt caregiver you trust enrolled under CDC, and keep watching GSQ for openings; ask your employer about Tri‑Share. (michigan.gov)

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Quick timelines and expectations

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Michigan 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 change: Income limits, provider rates, application forms, and program lists are updated regularly; always verify on the official links before you apply or pay fees.

Privacy & safety: We keep our website secure and never ask for sensitive information by email or text. If a link looks suspicious, navigate directly to the official .gov site listed above.

Not legal advice: This guide provides general information, not legal or case‑specific advice. Contact the relevant agency or a qualified advisor for your situation.

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Sources cited

• Child care subsidy — apply and basics: MDHHS Child Care Assistance page (MI Bridges link), CDC parent/provider pages, provider billing rules, hour limits, and updated DHS‑4025 form. (michigan.gov)
• Income limits: Michigan budget language (200% FPG) and 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines (ASPE). (legislature.mi.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
• Tri‑Share expansion: MiLEAP press release (June 3, 2025). (michigan.gov)
• 21st CCLC: State program overview and 2024‑25 participant info; Muskegon investment; GRPS LOOP program details. (michigan.gov, grps.org)
• Afterschool and summer meals: MDE CACFP/At‑Risk press release; Meet Up & Eat Up map and program continuation; Summer EBT 2025 details and expiration policy. (michigan.gov)
• Find and verify care: Great Start to Quality search and hotline; Children’s Camps license search; 2‑1‑1 statewide information. (greatstarttoquality.org, campsearch.apps.lara.state.mi.us, mi211.org)
• Local cost examples: Ann Arbor Rec & Ed 2024‑25 fees; Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Flint free membership. (a2schools.org, bgclubflint.org)

If you find a broken link or a number that no longer matches the official site, please send it to info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.

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