Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Missouri

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency Help Now

• If you need food today: Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder map to locate free meals for kids 18 and under near you. You can also call the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY (English) or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (Spanish), or text 914-342-7744 with “food” and your ZIP code for automated help. (fns.usda.gov)
• If you need program referrals now: Dial 2-1-1 or call 1-800-427-4626 to reach United Way 211 in Missouri for afterschool, camps, scholarships, transportation, and more. Online search is at 211helps.org. (m.helpingpeople.org)
• If you need child care cost help: Apply for Missouri’s Child Care Subsidy online and call the Missouri Childhood Resource & Referral Center at 573-415-8605 for application help. (dese.mo.gov)

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Quick Help Box

• Fastest next step: Use Missouri’s Show Me Child Care Provider Search to find licensed afterschool/summer care and which sites accept state subsidy. Phone: 573-415-8605 for help. (dese.mo.gov)
• Lower your cost: Missouri Child Care Subsidy covers before/after school and summer care if your income is at or below 150% FPL; transitional help extends to 242% FPL with small sliding fees. Action: Apply online from the Child Care Subsidy page. (dese.mo.gov, dssmanuals.mo.gov)
• Free summer food for kids: Find sites with the USDA map. For 2025, Missouri is running SUN Bucks ($120 per eligible child). Deadline: August 31, 2025. Apply or check automatic eligibility at Missouri SUN Bucks. (fns.usda.gov, mydss.mo.gov)
• Quality, low-cost programs to check first: Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA Y Club, Parks & Rec camps, school 21st CCLC sites. Details and real prices below with direct links and numbers.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Your fastest path to affordable care in Missouri

Missouri Child Care Subsidy (works for afterschool and summer)

Start here: Complete the Child Care Subsidy application, then choose a provider that accepts subsidy.

• Eligibility basics: Have a child under 13 (or older with special needs/protective services), need care to work/seek work/attend school or training, and meet income rules. Initial eligibility is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG); transitional help continues up to 242% FPG with sliding fees. Apply and find details at Child Care Subsidy for Families. (dese.mo.gov, dssmanuals.mo.gov)
• What the state pays: Missouri pays a base rate to the provider (higher for nights/weekends/infants and in urban counties). Parents may owe a “difference” if the provider’s charge is above the state base rate, plus a small sliding fee in transitional levels. See explanation on DESE’s payments page. (dese.mo.gov)
• Sliding fee amounts (Transitional levels):
  • Transitional Level 1 (151–185% FPL): $7.50\ast \ast fullday,\ast \ast$3.75 half day, $2.50 part day
  • Transitional Level 2 (186–215% FPL): $8.75\ast \ast fullday,\ast \ast$4.40 half day, $2.90 part day
  • Transitional Level 3 (216–242% FPL): $10.00\ast \ast fullday,\ast \ast$5.00 half day, $3.30 part day.
    Details at Child Care Subsidy Rates & Sliding Fees. (dese.mo.gov)
• How to find a qualifying program quickly: Use the Show Me Child Care Provider Search to filter by “accepts subsidy,” afterschool, and your ZIP. If you’re stuck, call the Missouri Childhood Resource & Referral Center at 573-415-8605 for a human to help you compare sites, hours, and openings. (dese.mo.gov)
• Processing time reality check: DESE’s goal is about 15 calendar days once your application is in their system. After clearing a 2024 backlog, DESE announced on February 28, 2025 it had completed backlog reviews and returned to expected processing times starting March 2025. (dssmanuals.mo.gov, dese.mo.gov)
• Required documents to gather now:
  • Photo ID (you)
  • Proof of Missouri residency (e.g., lease, utility bill)
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, self‑employment ledger)
  • School/training schedule (if applicable)
  • Employment verification form MO 500‑3563 (if requested)
  • Child’s birth certificate and immunizations
  • Any IEP/medical need forms (MO 500‑3564)
    Find forms on DESE’s family page. (dese.mo.gov)
• Common pitfalls: Missing pay stubs, choosing a provider that doesn’t have a DESE subsidy contract, or forgetting to sign electronic forms. Use the checklist at the end of this guide.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If denied: Ask for your written notice and the specific reason. You can reapply if your hours/income changed. Call 573-415-8605 for help understanding the decision. (dese.mo.gov)
• If waitlisted at providers: Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑427‑4626 and ask for afterschool providers accepting DESE subsidy in your ZIP. Also search the Missouri AfterSchool Network map and ask schools about on‑site 21st CCLC openings. (m.helpingpeople.org, moafterschool.org)

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Know your income number for 2025

Missouri uses the federal poverty guidelines (FPG). Here are the 2025 figures for the 48 contiguous states (Missouri). Source: HHS/ASPE. (aspe.hhs.gov, govinfo.gov)

2025 FPG monthly income by household size and key subsidy thresholds

How to use this table: If you’re a household of three and your average monthly gross income is at or below $3,332, you’re within 150% FPG and can qualify for regular Child Care Subsidy (if you meet activity requirements). If you’re between 151–242%, you might still get transitional help with a small daily fee.

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21st CCLC, SAC, and MOCAL: How to find free/low‑cost afterschool in your school district

• 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC): Federally funded afterschool programs offered by many districts and nonprofits across Missouri. DESE reports $17,958,639 in current 21st CCLC federal funds to Missouri sites (cohorts 12–14). Ask your school office if it has a 21st CCLC program, and check DESE’s Approved Programs page for current grant recipients. Many sites are free to families, especially at Title I schools. (dese.mo.gov)
• SAC and MOCAL: Additional state/federal grants supporting school‑age programs. These are listed with recipients on the DESE page above. (dese.mo.gov)
• Statewide program map: Use the Missouri AfterSchool Network program finder to search by county/ZIP and filter. Then call the site to ask about fees, hours, transportation, and openings. (moafterschool.org)

Reality check: Seats are limited and registration often opens in late spring for fall. Some schools prioritize students with academic need or those qualifying for free/reduced lunch.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the school about bus routes to nearby partner programs (YMCA, Boys & Girls Club).
• Apply for Child Care Subsidy and select a community provider near your school.

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Summer meal options and grocery help for kids

Free summer meals (eat on site or to‑go in rural areas)

• What it is: Free breakfasts, lunches, and snacks for children 18 and under when school is out.
• Find it fast: Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder. Some rural Missouri sites may offer “SUN Meals To‑Go.” For help, call the USDA hotline 1-866-3-HUNGRY. (fns.usda.gov)
• Missouri’s interactive map: The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services promotes an interactive SFSP map and info line 1-888-435-1464 each summer. Check the department’s SFSP news page for current-season updates. (health.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If no site is nearby, ask about non‑congregate options (to‑go) in rural counties on the USDA site or call 2‑1‑1 for local meal deliveries through community partners. (fns.usda.gov, m.helpingpeople.org)

Missouri SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) 2025

• Benefit amount: $120 per eligible child to help buy groceries during summer. Many families get it automatically (SNAP or Temporary Assistance households; children identified as foster, homeless, or migrant; or kids approved for free/reduced meals). Missouri is taking applications for 2025; deadline is August 31, 2025. Apply and read FAQs at Missouri SUN Bucks. (mydss.mo.gov)
• Who runs it: Missouri DSS in partnership with DESE; the state plan for Summer 2025 is approved. (dese.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re told you’re ineligible but your income is within school meal limits, use the SUN Bucks Eligibility Navigator and, if needed, submit the application before the August 31, 2025 deadline. (mydss.mo.gov)

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Program examples with real prices and contacts

Prices can vary by branch or district. Always confirm current fees, registration deadlines, and scholarships with the site.

YMCA Y Club (Greater St. Louis and Kansas City)

• St. Louis (South City Family YMCA) example fees: $190/month\ast \ast beforeorafterschool(Ymember),\ast \ast$300/month for both; non‑member $240/month\ast \ast beforeorafter,\ast \ast$380/month both. Registration fee $25\ast \ast individual/\ast \ast$45 family. Financial aid available; state subsidy accepted. See the South City Y afterschool page. (gwrymca.org)
• Kansas City Y Club example fees: District pages show weekly fees such as $65–$110/week depending on site (e.g., Platte County, Blue Valley, Crossroads). See KC Y Club Locations. Financial aid and DESE subsidy accepted; change fee $25, with priority decisions for aid if you apply by July 15; notifications by early August. See Y Club FAQs & Forms. (kansascityymca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your branch about scholarship waitlists, and apply for DESE Child Care Subsidy. Many Y sites hold spots for subsidy families.

Boys & Girls Clubs (BGC)

• Greater St. Louis: $25/year per child membership; sliding fee for afterschool; DESE child care assistance accepted at select units (with DVN numbers). Contact 314-335-8000 and see BGCSTL Join the Club. (bgcstl.org)
• Springfield: School‑year session fee $110\ast \ast plus\ast \ast$5 membership (some units waived for 2025), with transportation and meals included at many units; scholarships available. See Springfield BGC School Year fees and locations. (bgclubspringfield.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask about transportation from your child’s school and scholarship spots. If full, check other BGC units nearby or the YMCA.

City Parks & Recreation examples

• Kansas City Parks & Recreation Schools Day Out: $25/day for school‑holiday coverage, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Multiple centers citywide. See KC Parks Schools Day Out. (kcparks.org)
• KC Parks Traditional Summer Day Camp (typical): Local listings show about $100/week (varies by site). Verify current rates directly with KC Parks or by calling 816-513-7500. (martincitytelegraph.com, kcparks.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your community center about fee assistance, counselor‑in‑training (CIT) discounts for teens, and spots released after week one no‑shows.

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How to find and vet afterschool/summer programs

• Find licensed care near you: Use the state’s Show Me Child Care Provider Search. You can also download current lists of licensed providers or those contracted for subsidy. Help line: 573-415-8605. (dese.mo.gov)
• Check inspection history: Click a provider’s profile to review inspections and any corrective action. If you can’t find details online, call the Office of Childhood or the provider directly.
• Background checks for caregivers you hire yourself: The Family Care Safety Registry is available to families to request background information on child care workers. Toll‑free: 866-422-6872. (health.mo.gov)

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Special help for meals and groceries

• SUN Meals: Free summer meals, no paperwork. Find sites and hours on the USDA map. (fns.usda.gov)
• SUN Bucks 2025 (Missouri): $120/child grocery benefit. Many kids are auto‑enrolled; others must apply by August 31, 2025 at Missouri SUN Bucks. (mydss.mo.gov)
• If you’re still short on food: Call 2‑1‑1 or the USDA hotline 1-866-3-HUNGRY for pantry referrals near you. (m.helpingpeople.org, fns.usda.gov)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Language access/translation: DESE provides translation services; call 573-751-4212 and request a translator. TTY/TDD: 1-800-735-2966/1-800-735-2466. Ask afterschool sites about inclusive policies, preferred names/pronouns, and anti‑bullying training. (dese.mo.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities: Tip: When calling providers, ask if staff are trained in accommodating IEP/504 needs and if they accept DESE’s special‑needs differential payment. Bring IEP/medical care plans to enrollment. See DESE’s special‑needs child care info from the family page. (dese.mo.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Plan: Ask YMCA/BGC about military discounts; for base‑connected families, ask your School Liaison Officer for on‑post or partner camps, and whether they accept DESE subsidy.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Important: SUN Meals and many afterschool programs do not require Social Security numbers for kids; SUN Bucks eligibility does not affect immigration status. Confirm details at Missouri SUN Bucks. For translation at state child care programs, call 573-751-4212. (mydss.mo.gov, dese.mo.gov)
• Tribal families: Action: Ask your school’s Title VI/Indian Education coordinator about tutoring and cultural programs, and whether any 21st CCLC sites include dedicated services.
• Rural single moms: Options: Look for SUN Meals To‑Go, bus‑route friendly providers, and 4–H/Extension day camps. Use 2‑1‑1 if the USDA map shows no nearby sites. (fns.usda.gov, m.helpingpeople.org)
• Single fathers: Note: All programs here serve dads too. The same DESE subsidy rules and resources apply. Use the same steps.
• Language access: DESE translation line: 573-751-4212. TTY: 1-800-735-2966/1-800-735-2466. Bring an interpreter to provider tours if needed. (dese.mo.gov)

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Tables you can use

Child Care Subsidy sliding fee amounts (transitional levels, per child)

Source: DESE Child Care Subsidy Rates & Sliding Fees. (dese.mo.gov)

Sample program costs (verify with the site you choose)

Key timelines and deadlines

Where to search and call

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Application checklist

• Photo ID and proof of Missouri address (lease/utility bill)
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, self‑employment ledger MO 500‑3565 if needed)
• Work/school/training schedule (class schedule or employer hours)
• Child’s documents (birth certificate, immunizations)
• Special needs documentation (IEP, medical statement MO 500‑3564)
• Provider information (name, location, hours, whether they accept subsidy)

Find forms via DESE’s family page; call 573-415-8605 for help uploading documents. (dese.mo.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Choosing a site before confirming they accept DESE subsidy: Always verify “subsidy contracted” status in the provider search or by phone.
• Waiting until the last minute: YMCA and BGC fill fast; apply for aid early and ask about waitlists.
• Forgetting to report changes: If your activity (work/school) or address changes, update your DESE portal right away to avoid interruptions.
• Not budgeting for provider “difference” fees: If a provider charges more than the state base rate, you pay that difference plus any sliding fee. Ask for a written estimate first. (dese.mo.gov)

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What to do if this doesn’t work

• No openings anywhere nearby: Ask your school about transport to a partner site; call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “afterschool programs accepting subsidy in ZIP ____” and “transportation.” (m.helpingpeople.org)
• Subsidy approved but provider unpaid: Keep your sign‑in logs and talk with the site director. If needed, contact DESE payment support at 573-522-1385 (provider payments) while you work with the program. (dese.mo.gov)
• Summer food gaps: If the USDA map shows none near you, ask about SUN Meals To‑Go for rural areas and check Missouri SUN Bucks eligibility before August 31, 2025. (fns.usda.gov, mydss.mo.gov)

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Missouri‑specific FAQs

1. Who qualifies for Missouri Child Care Subsidy for afterschool?
   Answer: Families needing care to work, look for work, or attend school/training with income at or below 150% FPG (transitional help to 242%). Children must be under 13 (older if special needs/protective services). Apply at DESE’s family page. (dese.mo.gov, dssmanuals.mo.gov)
2. How long will my application take?
   Answer: DESE’s target is about 15 days after your application is complete. After clearing a system‑related backlog on Feb 28, 2025, DESE reports processing is back to expected timelines as of March 2025. (dssmanuals.mo.gov, dese.mo.gov)
3. What will I pay out of pocket with subsidy?
   Answer: In transitional levels, fees range $2.50–$10.00 per day per child depending on hours and income tier, plus any difference if the provider charges above the state base rate. (dese.mo.gov)
4. Are 21st CCLC afterschool programs free?
   Answer: Many are free (especially at Title I schools), but not all. Check your school’s site and DESE’s Approved Programs list to confirm. (dese.mo.gov)
5. Is Missouri offering SUN Bucks in summer 2025?
   Answer: Yes. Eligible families get $120 per child; most SNAP/Temporary Assistance households are auto‑eligible. Deadline: August 31, 2025 to apply if needed. (mydss.mo.gov)
6. How do I find which providers accept subsidy?
   Answer: Use the Show Me Child Care Provider Search and filter for subsidy providers, or call 573-415-8605 for assistance. (dese.mo.gov)
7. Can I get help if I work evenings or weekends?
   Answer: Yes. DESE pays differentials for evening/weekend care; ask providers about approved hours and any difference fees. (dese.mo.gov)
8. Where can I get quick help comparing programs?
   Answer: Call United Way 2‑1‑1 (1‑800‑427‑4626) or the DESE Resource & Referral Center (573‑415‑8605). (m.helpingpeople.org, dese.mo.gov)
9. What if I need translation or accessibility help?
   Answer: DESE offers translation; call 573-751-4212. TTY/TDD: 1-800-735-2966/1-800-735-2466. (dese.mo.gov)
10. How do I check a provider’s safety/compliance?
    Answer: View inspection history on the Show Me Child Care Provider Search and consider using the state’s Family Care Safety Registry (866-422-6872) if hiring caregivers directly. (dese.mo.gov, health.mo.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

How we source information: We used official Missouri and federal websites, including DESE Office of Childhood, DSS, USDA FNS, and established nonprofits, and we link directly to application portals, rate charts, and official phone lines. See sources linked throughout this guide.

Editorial standards: This guide follows our Editorial Standards for accuracy, inclusivity, and fast correction of verified errors. We prioritize official sources, verify links, and update quickly when policies change.

Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Corrections: If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified issues within 48–72 hours per our policy.

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Disclaimer

Scope: This guide is for general information to help Missouri families navigate afterschool and summer programs. Program rules, fees, and eligibility change; always verify with the agency or provider before you apply or enroll.

No guarantees: Approval outcomes, payment amounts, and timelines depend on individual circumstances and agency processing.

Security: For your privacy, avoid emailing full SSNs or sensitive documents; use official portals whenever possible and confirm you are on a .gov site or the official provider site.

Health and safety: If you have safety concerns at a program, report them immediately to the provider and state authorities listed on the DESE site.

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Source highlights referenced

• DESE Child Care Subsidy family info, eligibility basics, and help line. (dese.mo.gov)
• DESE Child Care Subsidy rates and sliding fee amounts. (dese.mo.gov)
• FPG 2025 amounts (HHS/ASPE) and Federal Register table. (aspe.hhs.gov, govinfo.gov)
• DESE provider payments/copay explanation. (dese.mo.gov)
• DESE Afterschool Programs and Approved Programs (21st CCLC, SAC, MOCAL). (dese.mo.gov)
• MASN statewide program finder. (moafterschool.org)
• USDA Summer Meals site finder and hotline. (fns.usda.gov)
• Missouri SUN Bucks 2025 ($120/child, Aug 31, 2025 deadline). (mydss.mo.gov)
• YMCA Y Club fees (St. Louis, Kansas City) and aid timelines. (gwrymca.org, kansascityymca.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs membership/fees (St. Louis, Springfield). (bgcstl.org, bgclubspringfield.org)
• Show Me Child Care Provider Search and Missouri Childhood Resource & Referral center. (dese.mo.gov)
• Family Care Safety Registry hotline. (health.mo.gov)
• DESE backlog clearance and processing time normalization (Feb–Mar 2025). (dese.mo.gov)

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Quick reminder: Keep this page bookmarked, and set calendar reminders for deadlines like July 15 (Y Club aid priority) and August 31, 2025 (SUN Bucks). Always save copies of applications, receipts, and any emails from programs or DESE.

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