Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Minnesota

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• If you need free food for kids today: Use the USDA Summer Meals Finder or download the “Free Meals for Kids” app; you can also call 211 via the statewide United Way 211 helpline at 651-291-0211 (Twin Cities) or 800-543-7709 (statewide). (fns.usda.gov, education.mn.gov, 211unitedway.org)
• Apply now for child care help that can cover before/after‑school and summer care: Use MNbenefits to apply for the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Questions go to 651-431-3809 or your county/tribal office from the official directory. (dcyf.mn.gov, mn.gov)
• Tax help to cut afterschool costs: Save receipts for tutoring, driver’s ed, and educational camps. Minnesota’s refundable K‑12 Education Credit can be worth up to $1,500perchild\ast \ast andusesupdated2025incomelimits(for1–2kids,AGIunder\ast \ast$79,760 for the full credit). Details and examples at the Minnesota Department of Revenue and their August 19, 2025 press release. (edchoice.org, revenue.state.mn.us)
• Emergency safety support (24/7): Minnesota Day One Crisis Line for domestic/sexual violence—call 866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995 for shelter and advocacy statewide. (dayoneservices.org)
• Language access and quick referrals: Parent Aware/Child Care Aware hotline 888-291-9811 (help finding licensed care that fits school schedules), multi‑language support. (familiesfirstmn.org)

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Why this guide, and what’s in here

This is a practical hub for afterschool and summer care in Minnesota, written for single mothers who need fast, accurate steps—what to do today, where to apply, how much help is available, what the timelines are, and what to do if Plan A falls through. We reviewed Minnesota’s official agencies (Department of Children, Youth & Families, Department of Education, Department of Revenue), school district programs, and established nonprofits statewide. We also checked the current top search results to fill common gaps: real dollar amounts, processing times, direct application links, and county/tribal phone numbers—so you don’t have to hunt for them.

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Emergency, food, and crisis help

• Free summer and afterschool meals: Kids 18 and under can get free meals at summer and “at‑risk” afterschool sites. Find a location with the USDA Summer Meals Finder; in Minnesota, MDE’s Summer Food Service Program page lists phone hotlines and the app. At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) reimburse programs to serve free snacks/suppers in low‑income areas. (education.mn.gov)
• Statewide helpline: Call 211 (or 651-291-0211 metro / 800-543-7709 statewide) for referrals to youth programs, child care, and emergency help 24/7. Text your ZIP to 898-211. (211unitedway.org)
• Safety now: Minnesota Day One Crisis Line—866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995—connects you to shelter and advocacy statewide (interpreters available). (dayoneservices.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Sources include DCYF, MDE, counties, and MN Dept. of Revenue. (dcyf.mn.gov, education.mn.gov, stpaul.gov, fns.usda.gov, revenue.state.mn.us)

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The essentials: programs that actually pay or reduce your costs

Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

What it is: State child care assistance that can pay licensed providers (including many school‑age programs) for care needed while you work, look for work, or attend school. Covers before/after school, release days, and summer care. You’ll usually pay a copay based on income. Apply online and your county/tribal office determines eligibility. (dcyf.mn.gov)

Eligibility basics: Income limits are updated annually. Through October 12, 2025, initial eligibility looks like this:

Use the official CCAP Copayment Schedule for your exact copay and entrance/exit levels. (dcyf.mn.gov)

How to apply: Submit at MNbenefits. For help or status updates, contact your county or tribal office from the [DHS A‑to‑Z directory] (includes phone numbers for all 87 counties and Tribal Nations). State CCAP help line: 651-431-3809. (mn.gov, dcyf.mn.gov)

Timelines: Counties commonly process new CCAP applications in about 30–45 days once they have all documents; if your chosen provider isn’t already registered, that can add 4–6 weeks. Some agencies keep a waiting list—ask to be added the same day you apply if they mention one. (hennepin.us)

Reality check: CCAP pays up to state‑set maximum rates; if a program charges more than CCAP allows, you’ll owe the difference plus your copay. Rates are tied to market surveys and updated on a schedule; policies continue to shift under the new Department of Children, Youth & Families. (content.govdelivery.com, dcyf.mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the program if they accept CCAP or will register.
• If there’s a waitlist, ask about priority categories (MFIP/DWP, homelessness) and apply for those supports if you qualify.
• While you wait, check low‑cost options below (Boys & Girls Clubs, Rec+ fee assistance, 4‑H) and call 211 to surface local scholarships. (211unitedway.org)

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K‑12 Education Credit (and the Minnesota Afterschool Advance option)

What it is: A refundable state tax credit that reimburses a share of many education‑related expenses, including after‑school tutoring, driver’s education, and educational summer programs taught by a qualified instructor. As of 2024–2025, the maximum credit increased to $1,500 per child, with income thresholds adjusted and inflation‑indexed. You can also claim the K‑12 Education Subtraction (separate rule set). (edchoice.org, revenue.state.mn.us)

2025 income snapshot for full credit: Families with 1–2 qualifying children get the full credit up to $79,760 AGI; larger families have slightly higher thresholds. The Department of Revenue confirmed these updated limits in its August 19, 2025 release. Save receipts for eligible expenses all year. (revenue.state.mn.us)

Minnesota Afterschool Advance (MAA): A Youthprise/Venn Foundation program that front‑loads funds so eligible families don’t have to wait until tax time—families contribute 25%, MAA advances 75% up to the credit cap, then the state repays the fund when you file. Check MAA’s site for current intake status; some partners reported a pause through June 2025 as the program updated to new law. (mnafterschool.org, youthadvantage.org)

How to claim the Credit/Subtraction: File with your state return (Form M1) and follow the Department of Revenue instructions; keep receipts for tutoring, educational camps, textbooks, and up to $200 of eligible computer hardware/software per child. (revenue.state.mn.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t qualify for the credit, consider the Subtraction (no income limits).
• Ask providers about internal scholarships or sliding‑scale fees (see YMCA, Rec Plus, and district programs below). (revenue.state.mn.us)

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Free meals during afterschool and summer

• At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP): Eligible afterschool programs can serve free snacks/suppers in low‑income areas. 2025–26 reimbursement rates for programs (not families) are: breakfast $2.46\ast \ast ,lunch/supper\ast \ast$4.905, snack $1.26—important because these dollars help programs keep costs down. (education.mn.gov)
• Summer Food Service Program (SFSP): Free meals at schools, libraries, parks, and nonprofits. Find sites through MDE and the USDA finder/app; or call 211 or the Minnesota Food HelpLine (888-711-1151). (education.mn.gov)
• Minnesota Free School Meals for All (school year): All K‑12 students in participating schools get one free breakfast and one free lunch daily during the school year; see MDE’s Free School Meals Program page. (education.mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your child’s school about afterschool snack/supper programs and community education scholarships.
• If transportation is the barrier, request bus tokens/passes from the site, school social worker, or a local nonprofit; many programs have small hardship funds.

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SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) for groceries

What it is: $120 per eligible child for groceries when school is out (summer). Many kids are enrolled automatically based on free/reduced‑price meal status or family participation in programs like SNAP, MFIP, FDPIR, or foster care. Benefits are issued on a SUN Bucks EBT card and expire after 122 days from issuance. 2025–26 income guidelines match school meals rules. SUN Bucks help line: 651-431-4608. Deadline to apply for 2025 was August 31, 2025 (plan ahead for next summer). (dcyf.mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you were eligible but did not get a card, complete the SUN Bucks help form or call the number above.
• Apply early for free/reduced‑price meals at your child’s school each school year to simplify next summer’s eligibility. (dcyf.mn.gov)

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Free or low‑cost programs you can use right away

21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC)

What it is: Federally funded before/after‑school and summer enrichment in high‑need schools; typically free to participating students. Minnesota’s MDE site lists the program overview and grantee cohorts (e.g., YMCA of the North, Rochester, Bemidji, etc.). Ask your school office if they host a 21CCLC site. (education.mn.gov)

How to get in: Call your school’s main office and ask for the 21st Century program coordinator; slots are limited and often prioritized for students who need academic support.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Check your district’s community education program (below) and the Sprockets map in Saint Paul.
• Call 211 to search by ZIP for afterschool programs offering scholarships. (stpaul.gov, 211unitedway.org)

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School‑district care and community education options

• Minneapolis Park & Recreation Rec Plus: Before/after‑school care and full‑day summer care at recreation centers. 2025–26 sample rates: before‑school resident $10.00/day\ast \ast (earlywindow)or\ast \ast$16.50/day (late window); after‑school resident $17.50–$23.50/day; release‑day $46/day with advance signup. MPRB fee assistance is available; some sites are fee‑optional (pay what you can). Hennepin County CCAP is accepted. Info line 612-230-6498. (minneapolisparks.org)
• Saint Paul Public Schools—Discovery Club: 2025–26 rates include before‑school $12.40–$18.55/day and after‑school $12.40–$24.75/day (varies by dismissal time). Summer daily rate $44/day. Discovery Club accepts CCAP; for financial assistance questions, SPPS lists DCYF CCAP contacts 651-431-3809. Program office 651-632-3793. (stpaul.ce.eleyo.com, commed.spps.org)
• Rochester Public Schools—SACC: Summer 2025 daily rate $45/day\ast \ast (\ast \ast$50/day drop‑in). School‑year care runs 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. SACC office 507-328-4040. (rochesterschools.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the program to confirm they accept CCAP and to provide a receipt that lists their provider ID for your county.
• Join waitlists early; keep checking weekly—spots open after school starts and at term breaks.
• If cost is still high, combine fewer scheduled days with free programs (Boys & Girls Clubs, 4‑H, library/parks activities) to patch the week.

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YMCA of the North scholarships

What it is: Need‑based scholarships that reduce program fees for youth activities and camps; YMCA also accepts county assistance for child care where applicable. Apply online or in person; typical decision timeframe is within 10 business days. Customer service: 612-230-9622. (ymcanorth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your local Y about additional “camperships” or branch‑specific funds.
• If you’re not near a YMCA branch, check city parks and school community ed for sliding‑scale options.

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Boys & Girls Clubs and 4‑H

• Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities: Membership is typically $5 per year during the school year; summer sessions may have an additional cost. Many Minnesota Clubs run afterschool homework help, arts, and sports with extended hours. Phone 651-726-2582 to be routed to a Club. (boysandgirls.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota (KIDSTOP): As of 2025, after‑school $13.25/day\ast \ast ,before‑school\ast \ast$6/day, all‑day $32.50/day\ast \ast ;registration\ast \ast$20 (school year) or $15 (summer). (bgcmn.org)
• Minnesota 4‑H (UMN Extension): County‑based afterschool clubs and summer learning with modest annual dues (commonly $20–$30 per youth, with scholarships available; varies by county). Examples: Anoka County recommends $30\ast \ast ,ScottCounty\ast \ast$20 (family max $60). (extension.umn.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a fee waiver—many Clubs do not turn youth away for inability to pay.
• Try your county 4‑H office and request a dues scholarship on the enrollment form.

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Saint Paul program finder (Sprockets) and program networks

• Sprockets Program Map (Saint Paul): A live map of K‑12 programs across Saint Paul (community orgs, libraries, parks, schools). Filter by location and program type, then click through to enroll. Updated June 23, 2025. (stpaul.gov)
• Ignite Afterschool: Minnesota’s statewide afterschool network—use it to learn quality standards and find training‑vetted “external organizations.” Helpful if you’re choosing among programs and want quality cues. (igniteafterschool.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• In areas without a program map, call 211 and ask for “afterschool” keywords for your ZIP, or ask your school social worker for their local list. (211unitedway.org)

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How much does care cost—and what help can cover

Citations: MPRB, SPPS, RPS, BGCTC/BGCMN, UMN Extension. (minneapolisparks.org, stpaul.ce.eleyo.com, rochesterschools.org, boysandgirls.org, bgcmn.org, extension.umn.edu)

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Key Minnesota benefits and funding at a glance

Citations: DCYF, MDE, MN Dept. of Revenue. (dcyf.mn.gov, education.mn.gov, revenue.state.mn.us)

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How to apply fast (and right) for CCAP

Most important step first: Submit your CCAP application now at MNbenefits. If your county has a waiting list, ask to be added immediately and write down the date/time you asked. (dcyf.mn.gov)

Required documents checklist (common items):

• Proof of identity and Minnesota address: Driver’s license or state ID; lease or utility bill.
• Proof of income for everyone in the household: Recent pay stubs, child support received, benefits letters.
• School or work schedule: Class schedule, employer letter with hours.
• Child information: Birthdates, school enrollment.
• Provider information (if you already chose one): Name, address, license number if known.

Counties often cite these exact items and process within 30–45 days when the file is complete. If your provider needs to register, that’s an extra 4–6 weeks—start it now. (hennepin.us)

Where to get help completing your application:

• County/tribal office directory: Find phone numbers for all counties and Tribal Nations on the DHS site.
• Parent Aware/Child Care Aware hotline: 888-291-9811 for help finding CCAP‑accepting providers. (mn.gov, familiesfirstmn.org)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Missing pay stubs or work/school hours: This is the most common delay. Upload everything at once.
• Not answering calls from “unknown” numbers: Eligibility workers often call from blocked numbers—pick up and check voicemail daily. MNbenefits notes you may not need an interview for CCAP, but counties may call for verification. (demo.mnbenefits.org)
• Choosing a provider that won’t register for CCAP: Ask before enrolling.
• Forgetting to report schedule changes: Changes can affect your authorization and invoices.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your caseworker for a written explanation and what documents are missing.
• If you can’t get traction, contact your county supervisor or call 211 and ask for a navigator who can escalate. (211unitedway.org)

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Find quality programs near you

• Ask your school first: 21CCLC sites, school‑run programs (Minneapolis Kids, Discovery Club, SACC), and community ed scholarships fill fast but often prioritize enrolled students. (education.mn.gov)
• Saint Paul families: Use the Sprockets Program Map to see youth programs near home or school. (stpaul.gov)
• Twin Cities—city programs: Minneapolis Rec Plus provides school‑age childcare at many rec centers with fee assistance and some fee‑optional sites. (minneapolisparks.org)
• Greater Minnesota: Call 211 for local afterschool providers and scholarships, or check with your county 4‑H office for low‑cost options. (211unitedway.org)

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Extra supports for teens (14–21)

• Saint Paul Right Track: Summer jobs with pay starting at $13.50/hour\ast \ast (YJ1)and\ast \ast$16.00/hour (YJ2); typical 6–9 week internships; 2025 apps opened in February. Office 651-266-6363. (stpaul.gov)
• Minneapolis STEP‑UP: Paid internships for 14–21; 2025 applications ran Jan–Feb with training in Feb–Mar. Bookmark for 2026. Program office 612-673-5118. (minneapolismn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your school counselor about local workforce boards and YouthBuild; Saint Paul and Ramsey County also list youth employment options via Sprockets and county sites. (sprocketssaintpaul.org)

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Inclusive supports for diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Family‑affirming youth spaces matter: Ask programs whether staff have LGBTQ+ training and non‑discrimination policies. The YMCA and many 21CCLC grantees follow inclusive policies. For counseling for queer youth, look for local organizations through 211; confirm hours and eligibility. Language assistance: Parent Aware hotline offers multi‑language help at 888-291-9811. (211unitedway.org, familiesfirstmn.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or raising children with disabilities: PACER Center: free one‑on‑one advocacy to navigate school accommodations and services (IEP/504), plus assistive technology lending and inclusive teen programs. Contact 952-838-9000 or 800-537-2237. (pacer.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Contact the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs “LinkVet” line 1-888‑546‑5838 for referrals, family assistance, and scholarships; ask your County Veterans Service Officer about childcare or youth activity grants tied to veteran benefits. (mn.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: No impact on immigration status: SUN Bucks and free school meals eligibility do not require immigration status checks for the child’s benefits; schools and MDE offer languages including Hmong, Somali, Spanish, Oromo, and more. For child care search in your language, call 888-291-9811. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Families living on or near reservations may qualify for tribal child care assistance or tribal Boys & Girls Clubs. Use DHS’s county/tribal directory to connect, and see the State of Minnesota list of the 11 Tribal Nations for local contacts (White Earth, Red Lake, Leech Lake, Fond du Lac, Grand Portage, Bois Forte, Mille Lacs; Lower Sioux, Upper Sioux, Prairie Island, Shakopee Mdewakanton). (mn.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ignite Afterschool maintains statewide quality resources; 4‑H is widely available with low dues; SUN Bucks and Summer Meals operate statewide with rural non‑congregate options in some areas—ask MDE nutrition staff if your area participates. (igniteafterschool.org)
• Single fathers raising kids: The options in this guide apply equally; agencies serve all caregivers. When calling, say you’re the custodial parent and ask for the same CCAP and program access.
• Language access: MDE and DCYF post translated materials (Hmong, Somali, Spanish, Oromo, Ukrainian, and more). DCYF “No English?” phone line 651-539-7700 can route calls. (dcyf.mn.gov)

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Reality checks: time, money, and space

• Slots fill early: 21CCLC and school‑age care fill by spring for summer and by late summer for the school year. Apply as soon as registration opens and ask to be added to waitlists.
• Processing takes time: Expect 30–45 days for a complete CCAP application, plus provider registration time if needed. Plan a short‑term backup (Boys & Girls Clubs, library programs, friend/family care). (hennepin.us)
• Costs vary: Even low‑cost options like Rec Plus and Discovery Club add up. Stack supports: CCAP + K‑12 Education Credit + program scholarships.
• Keep receipts: You’ll need them for the K‑12 Education Credit/Subtraction—especially for tutoring, driver’s ed, and educational camps/hardware. (revenue.state.mn.us)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until you “have everything” to apply for CCAP: Submit now; you can upload documents after. This starts the clock.
• Not confirming a program accepts CCAP: Ask explicitly and get their provider ID.
• Missing tax benefits: Many families forget tutoring, driver’s education, and educational camps qualify for the K‑12 Education Credit—save those receipts. (revenue.state.mn.us)
• Assuming meals aren’t free in summer: Check local SFSP sites weekly; new locations are added all season. (fns.usda.gov)

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What to do if Plan A falls through

• Call 211 and ask for afterschool programs with scholarships for your ZIP and school.
• Shift to a lower‑cost mix: Two days of paid care + three days of free/low‑cost programs (Boys & Girls Clubs, library, 4‑H).
• Short‑term care with trusted adults: Ask about “legal nonlicensed” CCAP registration for a relative/friend to be paid while you work; your county can explain requirements and monitoring. (dcyf.mn.gov)

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Regional resources table (examples)

Citations: MPRB, SPPS, RPS, BGCTC, Parent Aware, MDE 21CCLC. (minneapolisparks.org, stpaul.ce.eleyo.com, rochesterschools.org, boysandgirls.org, familiesfirstmn.org, education.mn.gov)

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Application checklist (print or save)

• MNbenefits account created and CCAP application submitted (write the date).
• County/tribal CCAP office contacted and you recorded your worker’s name and phone number.
• Documents uploaded: ID, proof of address, last 30 days of income, work/school schedule, child info, provider info.
• Provider registration confirmed (if needed).
• K‑12 Education Credit receipt folder set up (paper or digital).
• Summer meals location saved (USDA finder/app, or 211).
• Backup plan (Boys & Girls Club, library programs, 4‑H).

Citations: DCYF, Hennepin County, Department of Revenue, USDA/MDE. (dcyf.mn.gov, hennepin.us, revenue.state.mn.us, education.mn.gov)

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Timelines and deadlines table

Citations: Hennepin County, Department of Revenue, DCYF SUN Bucks. (hennepin.us, revenue.state.mn.us, dcyf.mn.gov)

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FAQs (Minnesota‑specific)

• Which programs are truly free for my child after school?
  21CCLC sites in qualifying schools, At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (snack/supper) sites, Boys & Girls Clubs (often $5/year, and many waive fees), 4‑H with scholarships, and library/parks programs. Ask your school first. (education.mn.gov, boysandgirls.org)
• Can CCAP cover my child’s school‑age care at a rec center or school program?
  Yes, if the provider is registered with CCAP and your family is eligible. Ask the program: “Are you a CCAP provider, and what is your provider ID?” (dcyf.mn.gov)
• How long does CCAP take?
  About 30–45 days for a complete application; provider registration may add 4–6 weeks. Apply now and upload documents promptly. (hennepin.us)
• What income qualifies for CCAP?
  As of 2025 entry levels: household of 3 at or below $54,360\ast \ast ;4atorbelow\ast \ast$64,714; see the full chart on DCYF’s site. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• What does the K‑12 Education Credit actually pay for?
  Tutoring, educational summer camps, driver’s ed, textbooks, and up to $200 per child in qualifying computer hardware/software—see the Department of Revenue’s qualifying expenses page. (revenue.state.mn.us)
• Is there help so I don’t have to wait for my tax refund to pay for programs?
  Check Minnesota Afterschool Advance (MAA)—they’ve advanced 75% of costs up to the credit cap; confirm current intake status. (mnafterschool.org)
• Where can I find a map of afterschool options in Saint Paul?
  Use the Sprockets Program Map. (stpaul.gov)
• Do all Minnesota students get free meals at school?
  Yes—one breakfast and one lunch per day in participating schools under the 2023 Free School Meals law. Afterschool snacks/suppers depend on local program participation. (education.mn.gov)
• What’s SUN Bucks and how much is it?
  Summer grocery benefits of $120 per child; many kids are auto‑enrolled; benefits expire 122 days after issuance. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Who can help me in Hmong, Somali, or Spanish?
  Parent Aware hotline 888-291-9811 provides multi‑language support; DCYF’s “No English?” line is 651-539-7700. (familiesfirstmn.org, dcyf.mn.gov)

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Real‑world examples

• Covering care while working 8–4:30: A Saint Paul mom used CCAP to pay Discovery Club after school (18.55/day** based on her school’s schedule), stacked the K‑12 Education Credit for summer robotics camp, and filled early‑release days with Boys & Girls Club activities (**5/year membership). She saved receipts and got a credit at tax time. (stpaul.ce.eleyo.com, boysandgirls.org)
• Summer on a budget in Minneapolis: A North Minneapolis mom combined Rec Plus at a fee‑optional site (pay‑what‑you‑can), free SFSP lunch at a park, and 4‑H workshops with dues help. She called 211 to find a free driver’s ed prep series through a local nonprofit and used SUN Bucks ($120/child) for groceries. (minneapolisparks.org, education.mn.gov, extension.umn.edu, dcyf.mn.gov)

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About timelines, capacity, and policy changes

Minnesota reorganized children’s programs under the new Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF). Income charts, provider rate rules, and nutrition program details are being updated on set schedules (for example, CACFP and SFSP rates each July; MDE grants on public timelines; tax credits updated by statute and press notices). Always check the “last updated” notes on the official pages we link in this guide. (dcyf.mn.gov, education.mn.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Methodology: We use official sources (Minnesota DCYF/DHS, MDE, Minnesota Department of Revenue, USDA FNS, school district and city sites, and established nonprofits). We verify application links, phone numbers, eligibility charts, and published rates; we avoid fixed benefit dollar claims when amounts change frequently and instead link to calculators or official charts.

Editorial standards: See our Editorial Policy for source verification, update cycles, and accuracy commitments. This hub focuses on Minnesota afterschool/summer programs and the funding streams that make them affordable.

Last verified: September 2025 • Next review: April 2026

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org

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Disclaimer

Important disclaimer: Program rules, rates, and eligibility thresholds change. Always verify details with the relevant agency or program before you apply or enroll. This guide is informational, not legal or financial advice. We link only to official government or established nonprofit sources when stating dollar amounts or eligibility, but errors can occur. If you find an error, email info@asinglemother.org—we aim to correct verified issues within 48 hours.

Security note: For your privacy, do not email or text Social Security numbers or full benefit card numbers. When applying online, use only official state or school websites (addresses ending in “.mn.gov,” “.state.mn.us,” “.edu,” or the organization’s standard domain) and avoid public Wi‑Fi when sending documents.

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Sources cited

• Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Minnesota DCYF eligibility, income chart, and application links; county/tribal directory; provider and billing notes. (dcyf.mn.gov, mn.gov)
• K‑12 Education Credit/Subtraction: Minnesota Department of Revenue pages; Aug 19, 2025 press release; EdChoice summary of 2024 changes. (revenue.state.mn.us, edchoice.org)
• Minnesota Afterschool Advance: Program overview, how it works; pause notice from a partner through June 2025. (mnafterschool.org, youthadvantage.org)
• At‑Risk Afterschool Meals and SFSP: MDE pages; 2025–26 CACFP reimbursement rates; USDA site finder; MDE free school meals. (education.mn.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• 21CCLC (after‑school/summer): MDE overview and grantee examples. (education.mn.gov)
• Local programs and rates: Minneapolis Rec Plus (fees, fee‑optional sites); SPPS Discovery Club (rates, CCAP acceptance); Rochester SACC (rates). (minneapolisparks.org, commed.spps.org, stpaul.ce.eleyo.com, rochesterschools.org)
• Low‑cost youth options: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities (membership), Central MN (KIDSTOP fees); 4‑H county dues examples. (boysandgirls.org, bgcmn.org, extension.umn.edu)
• YMCA of the North scholarships: General scholarship info and acceptance of county assistance. (ymcanorth.org)
• SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): DCYF program page, amounts, deadlines, and helpline. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Sprockets program map: City of Saint Paul. (stpaul.gov)
• Youth employment: Saint Paul Right Track; Minneapolis STEP‑UP. (stpaul.gov, minneapolismn.gov)
• Hotlines: United Way 211; Day One Crisis Line. (211unitedway.org, dayoneservices.org)
• Language access: Parent Aware hotline; DCYF “No English?” line. (familiesfirstmn.org, dcyf.mn.gov)

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Final tip: Bold action today: Submit your CCAP application, mark key registration dates on your calendar, and start a receipt folder for the K‑12 Education Credit. Then call one local program on this list and ask about a scholarship. Small steps now set up a smoother school year and summer.

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🏛️More Minnesota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Minnesota

• 📋 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