Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Mississippi
Last updated: September 2025
Quick help box
- Call your school office today and ask about any free 21st Century afterschool seats or district-run aftercare, then confirm pickup times and cost.
- If you need help paying for care, apply for Mississippi’s Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) online and join the waitlist if needed. Call 800-877-7882 for application help.
- Use the Mississippi Afterschool Network map to find programs near your home or job.
- If food is tight this month, find free afterschool snacks or summer meals through the Mississippi Department of Education and USDA meal locators.
- If you have a child with an IEP, ask your school about Extended School Year (ESY) services for summer and get the ESY decision in writing.
- Licensing and safety concern at a child care or afterschool site? Call the state complaint hotline at 1-866-489-8734.
- When nothing seems available, dial 2-1-1 to get a real person to search local options for you in your county.
Emergency options first
- For immediate threats to safety, dial 911.
- For urgent food help this week, use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder (works on phones) or call the National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-348-6479.
- For quick statewide referrals (child care openings, rent help, utility help, transportation), dial 2-1-1 or the toll-free line 1-866-472-8265.
- For child care complaints or unsafe conditions, call the Mississippi child care complaint hotline at 1-866-489-8734 and the licensure office at 601-364-2827.
Sources: Mississippi Department of Education meal finder resources; United Way 211 Mississippi; Mississippi State Department of Health Child Care Licensure. (fns.usda.gov, mdek12.org, myunitedway.com, unitedwaysems.org, msdh.ms.gov, mdhs.ms.gov)
Why this guide and what other pages miss
Most “top 10” results for “afterschool programs Mississippi” talk about national options, give generic tips, or don’t share the two things single parents need today: exact costs and how to apply. This hub fills the gaps by giving:
- Direct links to Mississippi applications and finders.
- Real fees from Mississippi providers (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, district programs).
- Up-to-date state policies on CCPP and ESY, with phone numbers you can call.
- Food access details for afterschool and summer (including Mississippi’s current status on Summer EBT/SUN Bucks).
We cite Mississippi government pages first, then USDA and reputable statewide organizations, so you can act quickly and verify. (mdhs.ms.gov, metroymcams.org, ymcasems.org, bgccm.org, bgcmco.org, rcsd.ms)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program or resource | Who it helps | Typical cost | Where to check/apply | 
|---|---|---|---|
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers (school-based afterschool) | K–12 students in high-need schools; tutoring, homework help, enrichment | Usually no fee | Mississippi Department of Education overview and local grantees; ask your school office first | 
| District-run aftercare (example: Rankin County “Frontiers”) | Elementary students at participating schools | Example fee: 160/month∗∗;∗∗160/month**; **25 annual registration | Rankin County SD Frontiers tuition page; call your school to confirm sites and prices in your district | 
| YMCA afterschool (Jackson metro) | K–6 at specific branches; includes snack, homework help | 59/week∗∗member,∗∗59/week** member, **81/week non-member; $50 registration | Metropolitan YMCAs of Mississippi After School page; branch contacts listed below | 
| YMCA afterschool (Hattiesburg/Petal) | Aftercare with pickup to 6 p.m. | $50 registration; monthly fee varies; accepts CCPP | Family YMCA of Southeast MS afterschool page | 
| Boys & Girls Clubs (varies by county) | School-age youth; enrichment, mentorship | Central MS membership 25/year∗∗;MSCoastmembership∗∗25/year**; MS Coast membership **10/year; some program fees vary by site | Club websites or local unit phones (see Regional contacts) | 
| CCPP child care subsidy | Working or student parents who meet income and other rules | Pays a big share of tuition; parent may owe a co-pay | CCPP apply and waitlist; call 800-877-7882 | 
| Free snacks/meals after school (CACFP/NSLP) | Children in qualifying programs | Free | MDE Office of Child Nutrition pages; ask your afterschool site | 
| Free summer meals (SUN Meals/SFSP) | All kids and teens 18 and under at open sites | Free | USDA Summer Meals Site Finder or MDE meal info | 
Sources: MDE Title IV-B, RCSD Frontiers, YMCA Jackson metro, YMCA Southeast MS, Boys & Girls Clubs (Central MS and Coast), MDHS CCPP, USDA/MDE nutrition programs. (mdek12.org, rcsd.ms, metroymcams.org, ymcasems.org, bgccm.org, bgcmco.org, mdhs.ms.gov, fns.usda.gov, mdek12.org)
Start here
Most important first: Call your child’s school office today and ask two questions:
- Are there any free 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) afterschool seats at or near our school?
- If not, does the district offer its own aftercare and what are the fees, hours, and bus options?
Why this matters: 21st CCLC programs are federally funded, run through the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), and focus on academics plus enrichment. Seats are limited and fill quickly. District programs like Rankin County’s Frontiers charge set monthly fees and tend to have steady pickup routines. (mdek12.org, rcsd.ms)
Next, search options near your home or work using the Mississippi Afterschool Network map. It lists hundreds of afterschool and summer programs with filters for grades, schedule, and activities. (msafterschool.org)
If you need tuition help, jump to the CCPP section below and apply. If you’re between paychecks or starting a new job, still submit your CCPP application and documents; the program is using a waitlist plus “exception categories” that can move a family forward faster (teen parent, foster, homeless, deployed military, child with special needs, TANF). (mdhs.ms.gov)
School-based programs you can access quickly
21st Century Community Learning Centers
Action: Ask your school if it hosts a 21st CCLC site or transports to a nearby one. These programs are typically free, include tutoring and enrichment, and operate on school days and sometimes during breaks. Mississippi funds centers in multi‑year cycles (the latest RFP for a new cohort was released in late May 2025), and seats are prioritized for students from high‑poverty, lower‑performing schools. (msafterschool.org, mdek12.org)
What these centers offer includes academic help, STEM, arts, family literacy events, and more. Hours vary by site; confirm pickup and bus options with the school or site director. (mdek12.org)
Funding note for 2025: the federal 21st CCLC line item faced delays this summer, but funds are now being released to states after a federal hold ended in mid‑July. Programs may be catching up schedules and staffing. If a site told you to “check back,” check back now. (axios.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use the Mississippi Afterschool Network map and call 2–3 nearby programs today; ask about sliding fees and transportation.
- Ask your school counselor about free tutoring or clubs that run until late.
- If no spots are available, consider YMCA or Boys & Girls Clubs below (many accept subsidies or keep fees low).
District‑run aftercare example
Action: If you’re in Rankin County, apply for Frontiers. As of the 2025–26 school year, Frontiers lists 160/month∗∗tuitionand∗∗160/month** tuition and **25 annual registration, due by the fifth school day each month (late fees apply after the deadline). Frontiers does not accept child care vouchers. Policies differ by district—always check your district’s page. (rcsd.ms)
Jackson Public Schools is restructuring afterschool for 2025–26 with a mix of in‑house programs and community partners. Ask your school principal for this year’s offerings and transportation details. (jvhsa.jackson.k12.ms.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call United Way 2-1-1 to locate church‑based aftercare near your school.
- Ask the school if they partner with YMCA or Boys & Girls Clubs for bus pickup.
YMCA afterschool in Mississippi
Jackson metro YMCAs
Action: Check the Metropolitan YMCAs of Mississippi After School page and call the branch that serves your school. Current posted rates: 59/week∗∗formembersand∗∗59/week** for members and **81/week for non‑members, plus a $50 one‑time registration. Programs run to around six p.m., include a snack and homework help, and list pickup schools for each branch. Branch phones: Clinton 601-924-5812, Reservoir 601-992-9118, Flowood corporate office 601-926-9622. (metroymcams.org)
Hattiesburg and Petal (Family YMCA of Southeast Mississippi)
Action: Register for afterschool at the Hattiesburg or Petal Family YMCA. Registration fee 50∗∗perchild;siblingdiscountsavailable;CCPPaccepted;pickupavailable;programrunsuntilsixp.m.Summercampweeklyratesin∗∗2025∗∗areposted(members∗∗50** per child; sibling discounts available; CCPP accepted; pickup available; program runs until six p.m. Summer camp weekly rates in **2025** are posted (members **120/week, non‑members $142/week) to help you estimate summer costs. Hattiesburg phone 601-583-4000; Petal phone 601-583-9399. (ymcasems.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask if the branch accepts CCPP at your preferred site and whether there’s a waitlist.
- If weekly fees are still too high, check Boys & Girls Clubs or a school‑based program.
Boys & Girls Clubs in Mississippi
Action: Call the unit nearest you and ask about membership and afterschool slots. Clubs are designed to be low‑cost:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi membership fee $25/year per child.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Coast membership fee $10/year per child; program fees for summer or afterschool may apply by site.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi and East Mississippi post local unit contacts and hours; call to confirm fees and bus pickup.
Key contacts
- Mississippi Gulf Coast administrative office 228-896-3770 (Gulfport).
- North Mississippi main office 662-841-6504 (Tupelo); local unit phones listed online.
Sources: BGCCM membership; BGCM Coast membership and Coast administrative phone; BGC North MS local clubs directory. (bgccm.org, bgcmco.org, mscoastchamber.com, bgcnms.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask the Club about scholarships, teen programs (often free), and whether they coordinate pickup from your school.
- If your local Club is full, ask to be wait‑listed and call YMCA or your school the same day.
Need help paying for care? Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP)
What CCPP is and who can apply right now
Action: Apply online and join the waitlist. As of August 2025, Mississippi is inviting families off the CCPP waitlist by email in the order added after April 1, 2025. Six “exception categories” can apply anytime and skip the wait (TANF or transitioning from TANF, foster care through MDCPS, teen parents, children with special needs, deployed military, homeless families). Call the CCPP call center 800-877-7882. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- You must pick a provider first (use MDHS’s provider search and check the box for “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children”) and upload documents after you submit the application. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Co‑payment: some families owe a small monthly co‑pay directly to the provider; certain groups have no co‑pay or a $10 maximum. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Eligible provider types include licensed centers, family child care homes, and in‑home care providers who enroll with CCPP. (mdhs.ms.gov)
CCPP eligibility snapshot
| Rule | What to know | Where to verify | 
|---|---|---|
| Work/school requirement | Usually at least 25 hours/week work, full‑time education/training, or a mix | MDHS CCPP eligibility page | 
| Income test | Priority groups at/below 50% State Median Income (SMI); general eligibility up to 85% SMI (MDHS example table posted) | MDHS CCPP eligibility page | 
| Exceptions that can apply anytime | TANF/transition, foster (MDCPS), teen parents, child with special needs, deployed military, homeless | MDHS CCPP updates | 
| Co‑pay rules | Waived or capped for TANF, homeless with no countable income, families at/below poverty; many special categories have $10 max | MDHS co‑payment page | 
| Where to apply | Online application, then upload documents | MDHS Apply page | 
Important note on income numbers: MDHS currently posts an example income table (showing 50% and 85% SMI with 2021 FPL reference). Use it to estimate eligibility, but call 800-877-7882 to confirm current thresholds for 2025. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Sources: MDHS CCPP updates; eligibility; co‑payments; apply; provider types; provider search. (mdhs.ms.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask an MDHS Resource & Referral Center to help you find a CCPP‑accepting provider and troubleshoot documents.
- If you cannot wait for the CCPP email invite, ask your employer about Dependent Care FSA (pre‑tax) and see the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit in the Tax Help section below.
Source: MDHS R&R directory. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Afterschool and summer meals
After school
Many Mississippi afterschool sites serve free snacks or meals through federal child nutrition programs:
- At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) provide suppers/snacks at qualifying sites.
- NSLP Afterschool Snack is available at eligible schools running education/enrichment aftercare.
Call your school or site and ask which one they use. For CACFP and Afterschool Snack details or to confirm if your site participates, use the Mississippi Office of Child Nutrition pages. Phone for OCN: 601-576-4955. (mdek12.org)
Summer meals
Any child or teen can eat free at participating summer sites. Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder and the MDE SFSP page; you can also text “FOOD” to the USDA text line 914-342-7744. (fns.usda.gov, mdek12.org)
Summer EBT/SUN Bucks in Mississippi
- 2025 benefit level for participating states is 40/monthperchild∗∗and∗∗40/month per child** and **120 for the summer, unchanged for the contiguous U.S. in 2025.
- Mississippi did not opt in for 2025. That means you will not receive Summer EBT unless you live in a participating tribal area or the state position changes in a future summer.
You can still use SUN Meals (eat‑on‑site and, in some rural areas, SUN Meals To‑Go) and regular SNAP/WIC. (fns.usda.gov, mississippitoday.org)
2025–26 income limits for free/reduced‑price school meals
Use these to estimate eligibility for free/reduced meals, which also helps determine automatic eligibility for some summer benefits in participating states. For the 48 states/DC (Mississippi included) the federal guidelines effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 are:
| Household size | Free meals (≤130% FPL) annual income | Reduced-price (≤185% FPL) annual income | 
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $27,495 | $39,128 | 
| 3 | $34,645 | $49,303 | 
| 4 | $41,795 | $59,478 | 
| 5 | $48,945 | $69,653 | 
| 6 | $56,095 | $79,828 | 
Source: USDA Federal Register notice for 2025–26 income eligibility guidelines. (federalregister.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If no summer site appears near you, zoom out on the USDA map or call your district’s child nutrition director. Check again each Friday as new sites are added during summer.
- If you cannot get to a site, ask if your county qualifies for SUN Meals To‑Go pickup in rural areas. (fns.usda.gov)
Special education supports for summer
Action: If your child has an IEP, ask about Extended School Year (ESY) in the spring. ESY is special education and related services provided beyond the regular school year when necessary for FAPE. Decisions are individual—based on regression/recoupment and other criteria—so ask your IEP team to review ESY and provide the decision in writing. There is no one‑size limit on days/hours, and services must be provided at no cost to you if your child qualifies. (mdek12.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Request an IEP meeting in writing and bring data on regression over breaks.
- If you disagree with the decision, use your district’s dispute options or consult Mississippi Parent Training & Information resources.
Reading support and tutoring
MDE’s Strong Readers resources include parent guides, grade‑level activities, and “Know Your Child’s Reading Score” campaign materials so you can act fast when a screener shows your child needs help. These are free and work well over summer or after school. (mdek12.org, strongreadersms.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your principal about summer reading supports under Mississippi’s Literacy‑Based Promotion Act and any school‑run camps or tutoring. (mdek12.org)
Safety and quality
- Check licensure: Mississippi State Department of Health licenses child care programs and investigates complaints. Call 601-364-2827 with licensing questions; to file a complaint, call 1-866-489-8734 or use the online form. (msdh.ms.gov)
- CCDF/CCPP complaints or suspected fraud: use the MDHS Fraud Tip Form or call 1-800-299-6905. (regulations.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you feel your child is in immediate danger, remove your child and call 911.
Mississippi‑specific examples and real prices
To help you compare options quickly, here are posted 2025 fees and contacts:
- Rankin County Frontiers aftercare: 160/month∗∗plus∗∗160/month** plus **25 annual registration; late and pickup fees posted; see site calendar for draft dates. (rcsd.ms)
- Metropolitan YMCAs of Mississippi afterschool: 59/week∗∗member,∗∗59/week** member, **81/week non‑member; $50 registration; locations in Clinton and Reservoir (Brandon) areas. (metroymcams.org)
- Family YMCA of Southeast Mississippi (Hattiesburg/Petal): 50∗∗registration;siblingdiscounts;acceptsCCPP;summercamppostedat∗∗50** registration; sibling discounts; accepts CCPP; summer camp posted at **120–$142/week. (ymcasems.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs membership: Central MS 25/year∗∗;MSCoast∗∗25/year**; MS Coast **10/year; call your unit for afterschool and summer fee details. (bgccm.org, bgcmco.org)
- Jackson Public Schools 2025–26 afterschool updates: district mixing in‑house and community partners; details vary by school. (jvhsa.jackson.k12.ms.us)
Food support details for summer 2025
- Mississippi did not participate in Summer EBT/SUN Bucks in 2025; if this changes in future summers, the standard benefit is $120 per child for the season in the contiguous U.S. Check the USDA SUN Bucks page for the current participation map and updates. (fns.usda.gov, mississippitoday.org)
- Free SUN Meals (eat on‑site) and SUN Meals To‑Go in some rural areas are still available; use the USDA site finder. (fns.usda.gov)
Taxes and credits that help with afterschool and camp costs
- Child and Dependent Care Credit (federal): you can generally claim up to 3,000∗∗inqualifyingexpensesforonechild,or∗∗3,000** in qualifying expenses for one child, or **6,000 for two or more, at 20–35% depending on income. Overnight camps don’t count; day camps and afterschool care usually do. File IRS Form 2441 with your return. (Refer to IRS Publication 503 and Form 2441 Instructions for current rules.) (irs.gov)
- Dependent Care FSA (through your employer): lets you pay up to $5,000 pre‑tax toward eligible care (limits may differ if married filing separately). This can work alongside CCPP, but you can’t double‑count the same dollars for the credit. Check your HR portal and Form 2441 instructions. (irs.gov)
Tip for filing season: keep receipts from your provider with the provider’s EIN or SSN.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the email invite from CCPP: add ccpayment@mdhs.ms.gov to your contacts and check spam weekly if you joined the waitlist after April 1, 2025. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Picking a provider that doesn’t accept CCPP: in the MDHS search, check the “Accepts MDHS Subsidy Children” filter before enrolling. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Not confirming transportation: many afterschool programs don’t run a bus. Ask who picks up from your child’s school and what happens on early‑release days.
- Letting a co‑pay slip: co‑pays are due to the provider monthly; ask for a receipt each month to avoid a balance. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Assuming ESY is the same as summer school: ESY is an IEP team decision based on your child’s needs, not a generic offering. (mdek12.org)
Application checklist
Use this before you start CCPP or enroll in a program:
- Photo ID and proof of Mississippi residency.
- Child’s birth certificate or record of live birth (infants).
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs; for new jobs, employer letter with start date, rate, schedule; or tax forms for self‑employment).
- Work or school schedule that shows hours.
- Provider information (name, address, provider ID if available).
- Any documents proving exception category (TANF, foster, homelessness verification, special needs documentation, military orders).
Where to upload after you apply: MDHS Parent Document Upload or by fax 601-359-4422 or mail to MDHS DECCD, P.O. Box 352, Jackson, MS 39205. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Diverse communities
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask providers about anti‑bullying policies and staff training. Many Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs post inclusion commitments; if you face bias, call 2-1-1 for alternative sites and report issues through state complaint channels. (myunitedway.com)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell your provider about needed supports; for school‑age children with IEPs, ask about ESY for summer. For CCPP, children with special needs are an exception category that can apply anytime. (mdhs.ms.gov, mdek12.org)
Veteran single mothers: Deployed military families are an exception category for CCPP; ask your Family Readiness office for help gathering documents and call the CCPP line 800-877-7882 for status. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children enrolled in public school can qualify for school‑based afterschool and free summer meals regardless of immigration status; language access is available through the Office of Child Nutrition. (mdek12.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Some tribal nations in neighboring states operate SUN Bucks and SUN Meals; if you reside on participating tribal land, check directly with the tribal program for summer benefits. (fns.usda.gov)
Rural single moms: Ask about SUN Meals To‑Go in rural counties and check if programs can coordinate carpools or bus pickup. Use 2‑1‑1 to locate churches offering aftercare near your route. (fns.usda.gov)
Single fathers: All resources in this guide apply equally; if a provider seems unsure, refer them to MDHS CCPP rules and MDE nutrition program eligibility. (mdhs.ms.gov, mdek12.org)
Language access: MDE’s Child Nutrition office provides LEP assistance by email; ask your school or site to connect you. (mdek12.org)
Local organizations and libraries to know
- Operation Shoestring (Jackson): afterschool “Project Rise” for students at partner schools. Phone 601-353-6336. (operationshoestring.org)
- Stewpot Community Services (Jackson): afterschool and summer youth programs plus meals. Phone 601-353-2759. (stewpot.org)
- Mississippi Children’s Museum (Jackson): limited afterschool “Launch Into Learning” with bus service from select schools; waitlist typical. Phone 601-981-5469. (mschildrensmuseum.org)
- Jackson/Hinds Library System: free homework help and summer reading; main line 601-968-5825. (jhlibrary.org)
- United Way 2-1-1 statewide helpline: toll‑free 1-866-472-8265. (unitedwaysems.org)
Resources by region
| Region | Go‑to options | Phone | 
|---|---|---|
| Jackson metro (Hinds/Madison/Rankin) | Metropolitan YMCAs of MS (Clinton/Reservoir), Jackson PS school programs/partners, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central MS | YMCA Clinton 601-924-5812; Reservoir 601-992-9118; YMCA corporate 601-926-9622 | 
| Gulf Coast (Harrison/Hancock/Jackson) | Boys & Girls Clubs of the MS Coast (multiple clubs), school district programs | Coast admin 228-896-3770; Pass Christian Qatar Center 228-452-9791; Hancock County unit 228-467-9515 | 
| Hattiesburg/Petal (Forrest/Lamar) | Family YMCA of Southeast MS (accepts CCPP), school sites | Hattiesburg 601-583-4000; Petal 601-583-9399 | 
| North MS (Lee/Union/Tippah/Lafayette) | Boys & Girls Clubs of North MS (multiple units) | Main office 662-841-6504 | 
| East MS (Lauderdale/Neshoba/Leake) | Boys & Girls Clubs of East MS (Meridian area units), school programs | NE Unit 601-880-6897; Southeast Unit 601-513-6745; HQ 601-482-2544 | 
| Statewide help | MDHS CCPP; R&R Centers; Afterschool program map; 2‑1‑1 | CCPP 800-877-7882; 2‑1‑1 1-866-472-8265 | 
Sources: YMCA pages and contacts; Boys & Girls Clubs directories and chambers; MDHS and MSAN. (metroymcams.org, mscoastchamber.com, chamberofcommerce.com, business.hancockchamber.org, ymcasems.org, bgcnms.org, eastmississippibgc.org, msafterschool.org)
Tables you can screenshot
Table A — Which option fits your situation
| Situation | First call | Backup plan | 
|---|---|---|
| Need free academics‑focused afterschool | School office about 21st CCLC | MS Afterschool Network map; Boys & Girls Clubs | 
| Need long hours to six p.m. | YMCA branch serving your school | Licensed child care center with CCPP | 
| Need immediate help paying | Apply CCPP; ask if you fit an exception category | Ask provider about scholarships and sliding fees | 
| Summer meals nearby | USDA Summer Meals Site Finder | Call district child nutrition office | 
Sources: MDE, MSAN, YMCA, MDHS, USDA. (mdek12.org, msafterschool.org, metroymcams.org, mdhs.ms.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Table B — CCPP exceptions that can apply anytime
| Exception category | Proof to gather | Where to ask | 
|---|---|---|
| TANF or transitioning off TANF | TANF case info/letter | MDHS CCPP | 
| Foster care (MDCPS) | MDCPS placement letter | Caseworker + MDHS CCPP | 
| Teen parent | School enrollment + ID | MDHS CCPP | 
| Child with special needs | IEP/medical documentation | MDHS CCPP | 
| Deployed military | Orders | MDHS CCPP | 
| Homeless | School liaison or shelter letter | MDHS CCPP | 
Source: MDHS CCPP updates. (mdhs.ms.gov)
Table C — 2025–26 school meal income limits (quick view)
| Family size | Free meals ≤ | Reduced‑price ≤ | 
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $27,495 | $39,128 | 
| 3 | $34,645 | $49,303 | 
| 4 | $41,795 | $59,478 | 
Source: USDA Federal Register notice. (federalregister.gov)
Table D — Key phone numbers you may need
| Topic | Number | 
|---|---|
| MDHS CCPP call center | 800-877-7882 | 
| Child care complaint hotline | 1-866-489-8734 | 
| MSDH Child Care Licensure | 601-364-2827 | 
| United Way 2-1-1 (alt) | 1-866-472-8265 | 
| USDA Hunger Hotline | 1-866-348-6479 | 
Sources: MDHS, MSDH, United Way, USDA. (mdhs.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov, unitedwaysems.org, benefitsbystate.com)
Step‑by‑step: applying for CCPP
Action: Do these in order
- Find a provider that fits your hours and accepts CCPP (use MDHS search and check the subsidy box).
- Complete the online CCPP application and submit.
- Upload documents (ID, income for last 30 days, proof of work/school, any exception documentation).
- Watch email and spam folders for updates or a waitlist invite link.
Timelines vary (especially with waitlist invites), so keep your backup care active until you’re approved and the provider receives your child’s certificate. (mdhs.ms.gov)
FAQs for Mississippi parents
- Can CCPP help with afterschool only? Yes. CCPP covers part‑time or full‑time child care, including afterschool hours, based on your certificate. Ask your provider to bill the correct schedule. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Do I have to be working to qualify? Usually you must be working about 25 hours per week, enrolled full‑time in school, job training, or a combination. Exceptions exist (see categories). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- I’m a teen parent. Can I apply alone? Yes. Teen parents apply as their own family unit and can qualify as an exception category. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- How big is the co‑pay? Many families have 0–0–10, especially exception groups. Others pay a monthly amount based on income, age, and part‑/full‑time status. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- My school doesn’t have afterschool. What now? Check the MS Afterschool Network map, YMCA branches, and Boys & Girls Clubs; ask about school pickup. (msafterschool.org, metroymcams.org)
- What if the provider I want doesn’t take CCPP? Ask the provider to enroll with CCPP or pick a provider already in the program (filter the search). (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Are afterschool snacks or suppers free? If the site participates in CACFP At‑Risk or NSLP Afterschool Snack, they’re free for enrolled children. Ask your site. (mdek12.org)
- Will Summer EBT/SUN Bucks pay me in Mississippi? No, not in 2025. Use SUN Meals sites instead. (fns.usda.gov, mississippitoday.org)
- How do I report an unsafe program? Call the complaint hotline 1-866-489-8734 (licensure) and, if it’s a CCPP provider, report to MDHS as well. (mdhs.ms.gov)
- Do libraries really help after school? Yes. Many host homework help, STEM clubs, and summer reading. Call your local branch (example: Jackson/Hinds 601-968-5825). (jhlibrary.org)
What to do if nothing works this month
- Ask your employer for a temporary shift, remote day, or compressed schedule while you secure a spot.
- Share pickup with another parent for a week or two; many programs open seats mid‑month.
- Use day‑by‑day YMCA or church programs, then switch once a full‑time spot opens.
- Apply for CCPP now so your place in line is secured, even if you need to use a short‑term option this month. (mdhs.ms.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Mississippi 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.
Disclaimer
Important: Program amounts, eligibility rules, and provider participation can change at any time. Always confirm fees, hours, transportation, and enrollment steps directly with the agency or provider before making decisions. This guide is informational and not legal advice. To keep our website and your information secure, do not email full SSNs or complete benefit case numbers—share those only through official portals or by phone with agencies listed in this guide.
🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi
- 📋 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
