Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Last Updated on November 19, 2025 by Rachel
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency Help and Fast-Action Options
- If you need safe supervision today: Call your school’s main office or district central office for same‑day afterschool availability or emergency drop‑in options. If you aren’t sure who to call, dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑444‑4211 and ask for “afterschool programs near me.” (211nh.org)
- If you’re experiencing homelessness and need child care fast: New Hampshire can approve “expedited child care” within 7 days while your final scholarship decision is processed (final determination due in 30 days). Apply at NH EASY online application and tell the worker you need “expedited child care.” You can also call 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS (1‑844‑275‑3447) for help. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- If groceries are tight over the summer: New Hampshire participates in SUN Bucks (Summer EBT). Families receive $120 per eligible child over the summer of 2025. Many kids are enrolled automatically; others can apply. Start here: New Hampshire SUN Bucks information from USDA. (fns.usda.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Find licensed afterschool/summer care that takes the scholarship: Call Child Care Aware of NH at 1‑855‑393‑1731 or (603) 578‑1386 ext. 2531 for free referrals, or search via NH Child Care Search Portal. (nh-connections.org)
- Apply for the NH Child Care Scholarship (covers afterschool and full‑day summer care): Apply at NH EASY online application. For help, call DHHS at 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS (1‑844‑275‑3447). (nh-connections.org)
- Ask about free school‑based programs: Ask your school about 21st CCLC afterschool sites. For statewide questions, call the NH Department of Education at (603) 271‑3494. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov)
- Free snacks or suppers after school: Many sites serve free snacks or meals through the Afterschool Snack Program or CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals. Contact NHED Child Nutrition at (603) 271‑3862 or (603) 271‑3864. (education.nh.gov)
- General resource navigation, 24/7: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑444‑4211 for live help in over 150 languages. (211nh.org)
How New Hampshire Helps Pay for Afterschool and Summer Care
New Hampshire has three core ways to lower your out‑of‑pocket costs:
- NH Child Care Scholarship (CCS) pays providers directly and is the fastest way to bring down weekly costs for school‑age care before/after school and summer day camps.
- 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) offer free or very low‑cost afterschool and summer learning at specific schools.
- USDA SUN Programs help with food: SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) for groceries, plus SUN Meals sites and Afterschool Meals/Snacks at many programs.
Each option below includes eligibility, exact amounts (where available), how to apply, timelines, and a Plan B if it doesn’t work.
NH Child Care Scholarship (CCS) for School‑Age Care
Step‑by‑Step: What to do first
- Check your income against the current limit: New Hampshire now allows eligibility up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) for both initial and ongoing eligibility. See the income table below. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Apply online now: Submit an application at NH EASY online application. A decision is due within 30 days of your signed application date. If you’re homeless, ask for “expedited child care” to start within 7 days once linked to an enrolled provider. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Line up a provider while you wait: Use NH Connections referrals or call 1‑855‑393‑1731 to get programs that accept the scholarship and have school pick‑up routes or summer day camp spots. (nh-connections.org)
Eligibility and cost‑share rules you need to know
- Income limit: At or below 85% SMI. See examples below. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Work/education activity: You must be working, job‑seeking, in school/training, receiving certain TANF services, or meeting approved NHEP activities. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Family cost share:
- Step 1 (≤100% FPL) $0/week
- Step 2 (>100% to ≤138% FPL) $5/week
- Step 3 (>138% FPL up to 85% SMI) 7% of gross income
These rules apply statewide. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What NH will pay your provider (maximum weekly standard rates)
These are the maximums NH pays enrolled providers (your co‑pay may apply). Key school‑age rate examples effective August 26, 2024:
- Licensed center, school‑age (approximately 79–155 months):
- Full‑time weekly up to $236.25
- Half‑time weekly up to $182.90
- Part‑time weekly up to $91.45 (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Licensed family child care, school‑age (79–155 months):
- Full‑time weekly up to $200.00
- Half‑time weekly up to $154.84
- Part‑time weekly up to $77.42 (dhhs.nh.gov)
Note: Rates also exist for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and for license‑exempt providers; school‑age amounts above are shown for afterschool/summer planning. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Income snapshot for quick screening (85% SMI, effective July 1, 2024)
| Household size | 85% SMI monthly | 85% SMI yearly |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $6,428 | $77,134 |
| 3 | $7,940 | $95,283 |
| 4 | $9,453 | $113,432 |
| 5 | $10,965 | $131,581 |
| 6 | $12,477 | $149,731 |
Source: NH DHHS Supervisory Release SR 24‑18 (effective 7/1/2024). (dhhs.nh.gov)
Required documents
- Proof of identity and NH residency
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs or other income records)
- Proof of activity (work schedule, school schedule, or job search)
- Child’s citizenship/eligible non‑citizen status
- If homeless: Tell DHHS so expedited care can start in 7 days once linked to an enrolled provider. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Timeline and tips
- Decision timeline: 30 days from signed application date (watch your mail/portal). (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Document deadline: If DHHS requests more proof, you typically have 10 calendar days to turn it in. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Certification period: 12 months continuous eligibility unless your income rises above 85% SMI. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Reality check
- Waitlists can happen at popular programs. Use the referral line to pull a longer list, including backup providers. (nh-connections.org)
- Co‑pays still apply at Step 2 or Step 3. Ask the provider to estimate your weekly out‑of‑pocket based on your step and the state rate. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Real‑world example
- Example: A Manchester mom with two kids (household of 3, gross income 4,200/month∗∗)isStep3.Shechoosesalicensedcenterforsummerfull‑time.Thestatemaypayupto∗∗4,200/month**) is Step 3. She chooses a licensed center for summer full‑time. The state may pay up to **236.25/week per school‑age child; she pays her Step 3 cost share (about 7% of income monthly, spread weekly) plus any difference between the provider’s private rate and the state max. She applies through NH EASY and gets a decision in 3 weeks. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If denied for income: Re‑check household size and allowable income proofs; consider a lower‑cost provider or a 21st CCLC school‑based program.
- If you need short‑term care while you appeal: Ask providers about short blocks or drop‑in, and call 2‑1‑1 for local scholarships and sliding‑scale programs. (211nh.org)
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) in NH
Action first
- Call your child’s school now and ask if it is a 21st CCLC site or if nearby schools host one with seats for transfer students. Programs usually run after school with tutoring, enrichment, and sometimes summer learning. Costs are free or very low. (education.nh.gov)
What these programs are
- Purpose: Free/low‑cost academic enrichment afterschool and in summer, focused on higher‑poverty schools. Some sites also offer adult/family learning. (education.nh.gov)
- Where they operate: NHED reports active grants and sites statewide; grantees vary by year. Contact NHED or your district for current sites. NHED main line: (603) 271‑3494. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov)
Enrollment and cost
- Priority: Students at the host school usually have first priority; seats may open to others if space allows.
- Cost: Often free; some sites may charge small fees or use sliding scale—ask about fee waivers.
Timeline
- Afterschool seats: Usually offered before school starts; waitlists are common mid‑year. Ask to be put on the list and request drop‑in days if available.
- Summer seats: Usually posted late spring; ask your site lead to pre‑register you.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- No 21st CCLC at your school: Ask about district‑run afterschool, YMCA/Boys & Girls Club buses, or partner sites nearby. Consider using the NH Child Care Scholarship with a licensed provider. (graniteymca.org, bgcn.com)
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) and SUN Meals
Start here
- Confirm your child’s status: If your child was eligible for free or reduced‑price school meals last year (or your household receives SNAP, TANF, or certain other benefits), your child may be auto‑enrolled for SUN Bucks. Check NH’s status here: USDA SUN Bucks page for New Hampshire. (fns.usda.gov)
What you get in 2025
- Benefit amount: 40permonthperchild∗∗,typically∗∗40 per month per child**, typically **120 per child for the summer in the contiguous U.S. (January–December 2025 benefit levels). (fns.usda.gov)
- Issuance: Timing set by the state; auto‑eligible kids should receive benefits shortly before summer or within required timelines; new applicants must be issued within set timeframes after approval. (fns.usda.gov)
How to apply if not auto‑enrolled
- Watch for a state application link from NH DHHS during spring; if you don’t see one, ask your school nutrition office or call 2‑1‑1. Federal guidance allows applications for kids who weren’t previously certified for school meal benefits. (fns.usda.gov)
SUN Meals and Afterschool Meals/Snacks
- Afterschool snacks or suppers: Many school‑age programs in NH serve free snacks/suppers through the NSLP Afterschool Snack Program or CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals. To ask which sites near you participate, contact NHED Child Nutrition at (603) 271‑3862 or (603) 271‑3864. (education.nh.gov)
- Summer meal sites: Alongside SUN Bucks, kids can eat free at community SUN Meals sites. If you don’t have the link handy, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for summer meal locations. (211nh.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you never received SUN Bucks: Verify your address and eligibility with the school district, then contact NH DHHS (or 2‑1‑1 for navigation). Keep an eye on mail for EBT cards.
Local, Low‑Cost and Free Afterschool/Summer Options
Below are concrete, current examples to help you compare. For many families, combining the NH Child Care Scholarship with these community providers lowers costs the most.
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua (clubhouse, early learning center, and camps)
- Membership: $40/year for most clubhouse/teen programs (grades 3–12). (bgcn.com)
- Before school (K–6): $50/week at the Club, includes breakfast and transportation to school. (bgcn.com)
- After school (K–2 through ELC): $90/week with transportation from school and hot meals. (bgcn.com)
- Clubhouse (grades 3–5) and Teen Center (grades 6–12): Drop‑in after school with $40/year membership; extended hours to evening. (bgcn.com)
- Summer camps:
- Contact: (603) 883‑0523; address One Positive Place, Nashua. They accept state child care scholarships for licensed programs and offer internal scholarships. (bgcn.com)
- Tip: If a week is full, join the waitlist and ask about partial‑week care or transportation options. Camps fill early.
The Granite YMCA (multiple branches statewide)
- Programs: Before/after school care at schools and YMCA sites; school vacation camps; summer day camps.
- Financial help: State child care scholarships accepted; Y‑member discounts, sibling discounts, and Y financial assistance available. (graniteymca.org)
- Branch contacts:
- Manchester SACC: (603) 232‑8631
- Goffstown SACC: (603) 232‑8633
- Concord SACC: (603) 228‑9622 ext. 1134
- Londonderry SACC: (603) 437‑9622
- Somersworth/Seacoast SACC: (603) 332‑7334 ext. 4113
Check rates and registration dates by branch under “Program Rates.” (graniteymca.org)
- YMCA of Greater Nashua: Multiple school‑age programs (Amherst, Merrimack, Mont Vernon, Nashua); financial assistance (Y Cares) available. See contacts on program pages. (nmymca.org)
- Tip: If posted rates feel out of reach, apply for both the NH Child Care Scholarship and the Y’s financial assistance—many moms qualify for layered support. (graniteymca.org)
Copper Cannon Camp (free, residential summer camp)
- Cost: Tuition‑free for eligible New Hampshire youth; founded to serve under‑resourced families. (coppercannoncamp.org)
- Eligibility: Uses USDA‑style income guidelines; for 2024–2025 a family of four shows yearly income at or below $57,720 (example) to qualify; see full table on the camp site. Ages 9–12 for regular session; 13–16 for teen programs. (coppercannoncamp.org)
- Contact: (603) 823‑8107; Franconia/Bethlehem area in the White Mountains. Transportation help may be available through partner groups (ask when applying). (coppercannoncamp.org)
- Tip: Apply early—spaces fill quickly and income verification is required.
Family Resource Centers and Local Recreation
- Family Support New Hampshire: Find your local Family Resource Center for free parent groups, youth activities, and camp scholarships. Start with the FRC Locator. (fsnh.org)
- City/town recreation departments: Many offer sliding‑scale camps and afterschool programs. Call your town hall or recreation office; if unsure, dial 2‑1‑1. (211nh.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Where to start | What you’ll need |
|---|---|---|
| Lower weekly costs for afterschool/summer day camp | NH Child Care Scholarship via NH EASY online application | Income proof, work/school schedule, child info |
| Free/low‑cost afterschool at school | Ask your school about 21st CCLC | Registration form; priority for host‑school students |
| Summer grocery money | SUN Bucks ($120/child in 2025) | Auto‑enrolled if already eligible; otherwise apply |
| Free snacks/suppers after school | Ask site if they participate in NSLP Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk | None for families; site handles paperwork |
| Find programs and providers | Child Care Aware of NH 1‑855‑393‑1731 | Your child’s grade, school, hours needed, transport needs |
| 24/7 navigation | 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑444‑4211 | Zip code, what you need help with |
Sources: NH DHHS/NHED/USDA program pages and hotlines. (dhhs.nh.gov, education.nh.gov, nh-connections.org, 211nh.org, fns.usda.gov)
Application Checklist
- Proof of identity and address: License or other ID, recent mail or lease.
- Income documents: Last 4–6 weeks pay stubs, self‑employment statements, benefits letters.
- Work/school schedule: Employer letter, schedule printout, or class schedule.
- Chosen provider: Program name, phone, and whether they accept the scholarship.
- If homeless or fleeing violence: Tell DHHS at application; ask for expedited child care and safe contact methods. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Back‑up option: Names and numbers of at least two alternate providers from your referral list. (nh-connections.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 10‑day document window: If DHHS asks for more information, send it within 10 calendar days to avoid denial for “failure to verify.” (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Not linking to an enrolled provider: CCS can only pay enrolled providers—confirm enrollment before you start. (nh-connections.org)
- Skipping school‑based options: Even if you plan to use a private program, ask the school about 21st CCLC or district programs first. They’re often free. (education.nh.gov)
- Assuming meals aren’t available: Many programs serve free snacks/suppers—ask the site lead. (education.nh.gov)
Program Timelines at a Glance
| Program | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| NH Child Care Scholarship | Apply anytime; decision within 30 days; expedited start for homeless within 7 days once linked to provider |
| 21st CCLC | Seats posted before school year; waitlists common mid‑year; summer options announced in late spring |
| SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) | Benefits issued around summer; auto‑enrollment for many; applications available if not already eligible |
| Afterschool Snack/CACFP Meals | Year‑round at participating sites; ask your program for details |
Sources: NH DHHS/NHED/USDA guidance. (dhhs.nh.gov, education.nh.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Reality Checks, Tips, and Workarounds
- Transportation is often the bottleneck: Ask your school if late buses serve your program, and ask providers if they run vans from your child’s school.
- Stack supports: Many moms pair the Child Care Scholarship with a YMCA or Boys & Girls Club program to keep costs predictable. (graniteymca.org, bgcn.com)
- Food help reduces program costs indirectly: Using SUN Bucks and free SUN Meals can free up money for camp and care fees. (fns.usda.gov)
Documents and Links You’ll Use Often
- NH Child Care Scholarship income limits and steps: See SR 24‑18 and program criteria; 85% SMI and step cost‑share rules (0∗∗,∗∗0**, **5/week, 7%). (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Provider payment rates (maximum weekly standard rates): Effective August 26, 2024. Helpful for budgeting and talking with providers. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Afterschool Snacks and CACFP Meals: NHED contact and program FAQs. (education.nh.gov)
- SUN Bucks 2025 benefit levels: 40/month∗∗,∗∗40/month**, **120/child total (contiguous U.S.). (fns.usda.gov)
- NH SUN Bucks availability: USDA’s New Hampshire page shows current status and where to go to apply. (fns.usda.gov)
- NHED 21st CCLC page & contact: Overview and grant/site information; email listed on the page; NHED main line (603) 271‑3494. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov)
- Child Care Aware of NH referrals: Free, tailored lists and help picking quality programs. 1‑855‑393‑1731; portal for searches. (nh-connections.org)
Tables You Can Screenshot and Save
NH Child Care Scholarship: Cost‑Share Rules
| Step | Household income | Weekly family cost share |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | ≤100% Federal Poverty Level | $0/week |
| Step 2 | >100% to ≤138% FPL | $5/week |
| Step 3 | >138% FPL up to 85% SMI | 7% of gross income |
Source: NH DHHS SR 24‑08. (dhhs.nh.gov)
School‑Age Provider Rates (maximum weekly amounts NH pays, by provider type)
| Provider type | Full‑time | Half‑time | Part‑time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed center (school‑age) | $236.25 | $182.90 | $91.45 |
| Licensed family child care (school‑age) | $200.00 | $154.84 | $77.42 |
Effective August 26, 2024 (school‑age ~79–155 months). (dhhs.nh.gov)
85% State Median Income (for quick screening)
| Household size | Monthly 85% SMI | Yearly 85% SMI |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $6,428 | $77,134 |
| 3 | $7,940 | $95,283 |
| 4 | $9,453 | $113,432 |
| 5 | $10,965 | $131,581 |
| 6 | $12,477 | $149,731 |
Source: SR 24‑18 (effective 7/1/2024). (dhhs.nh.gov)
SUN Bucks 2025 Benefit Levels (Contiguous U.S.)
| Monthly amount | Total for summer |
|---|---|
| $40 per child | $120 per child |
Source: USDA (effective Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
Key Phone Numbers
| Agency or program | Phone |
|---|---|
| NH Department of Education (main) | (603) 271‑3494 |
| NHED Child Nutrition (after‑school snacks/meals) | (603) 271‑3862 / (603) 271‑3864 |
| Child Care Aware of NH (referrals) | 1‑855‑393‑1731 / (603) 578‑1386 ext. 2531 |
| 2‑1‑1 New Hampshire | 2‑1‑1 / 1‑866‑444‑4211 |
| Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua | (603) 883‑0523 |
| Copper Cannon Camp | (603) 823‑8107 |
Sources: NHED/NH Connections/211/BG Club/Copper Cannon. (my.doe.nh.gov, education.nh.gov, nh-connections.org, 211nh.org, bgcn.com, coppercannoncamp.org)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask providers about explicit anti‑bullying policies and staff training. YMCA and many Boys & Girls Clubs maintain inclusion policies and scholarship funds; combine CCS with internal scholarships to keep afterschool safe and affordable. For language access or civil rights help, NHED and USDA provide no‑cost assistance. (education.nh.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: CCS covers care for children under 13 (or under 18 with a disability). If your child has significant needs, ask about smaller ratios or staffed care plans; use Form 2690 when applying. For afterschool meals, sites must accommodate disabilities. (nh-connections.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask 2‑1‑1 for veteran‑specific childcare scholarships and transportation help; check with the VA about local partners. (hud.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can request free language help when contacting NHED or Child Nutrition programs. Afterschool meals and summer meal sites serve all kids regardless of immigration status. (education.nh.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: SUN Bucks also operates through participating Tribal Nations nationally; NH families living in NH use the state program, but Tribal information is available via USDA. (fns.usda.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask about SUN Meals To‑Go in eligible rural areas during summer, and look at licensed family providers who accept the scholarship; they may have more flexible hours. For site lists, call 2‑1‑1 and the referral line. (211nh.org, nh-connections.org)
- Single fathers: All programs and scholarships are gender‑neutral; the same income rules and supports apply. Use the same steps in this guide.
- Language access: Request no‑cost interpretation when calling NHED Child Nutrition or when applying for benefits. (education.nh.gov)
Regional and Statewide Resource Directory
- Child Care Aware of NH: Free referrals, lists of programs that accept CCS, quality tips, and help comparing options. 1‑855‑393‑1731. (nh-connections.org)
- NH Department of Education, 21st CCLC: Contact your school; for statewide questions, NHED main line (603) 271‑3494. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov)
- NHED Afterschool Snacks/Meals (Child Nutrition): (603) 271‑3862 / (603) 271‑3864. (education.nh.gov)
- 2‑1‑1 New Hampshire: 24/7 navigation to food, child care, and more. 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑444‑4211. (211nh.org)
- NH Afterschool Network (NHAN): Statewide OST collaboration and quality resources. NH Afterschool Network site. (nhafterschool.org)
- ACROSS NH: Professional development hub for OST programs; starting July 2025, TA will shift to Child Care Aware contact lines. Families can still ask CCAoNH for help identifying quality programs. (acrossnh.org)
What to Do When You Hear “We’re Full”
- Ask about bused sites: Some Ys and Clubs bus from your child’s school. A farther program may still work if transportation is included. (graniteymca.org, bgcn.com)
- Activate the CCS first: Even if your first choice is full, getting approved puts you in a stronger spot to take the next available seat.
- Use a temporary mix: A couple of days at a licensed family child care and a couple of days at a community site can bridge gaps.
- Call 2‑1‑1 and Child Care Aware for backup providers and waitlists. (211nh.org, nh-connections.org)
Ten New Hampshire‑Specific FAQs
- How much can my family earn and still qualify for the Child Care Scholarship?
Up to 85% of State Median Income (for a family of 3, that’s 7,940/month∗∗or∗∗7,940/month** or **95,283/year). (dhhs.nh.gov) - What will I pay each week if I’m approved?
Depends on your step: 0/week∗∗(Step1),∗∗0/week** (Step 1), **5/week (Step 2), or 7% of income (Step 3), plus any difference between the provider’s private rate and the state maximum. (dhhs.nh.gov) - How long does approval take?
DHHS must send a decision within 30 days; homeless families can get expedited child care within 7 days once linked to an enrolled provider. (dhhs.nh.gov) - Do Boys & Girls Club programs accept the scholarship?
Licensed components can accept CCS; for example, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua lists afterschool 90/week∗∗(K–2ELC)and∗∗90/week** (K–2 ELC) and **50/week before school, with $40/year membership for grades 3–12 drop‑in. Ask your local Club. (bgcn.com) - Is there a list of 21st CCLC schools?
NHED maintains program information; call your school and check NHED’s page for updates. NHED phone (603) 271‑3494. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov) - How much are SUN Bucks in 2025?
40/monthperchild∗∗,typically∗∗40/month per child**, typically **120 per child for summer. (fns.usda.gov) - Can my child get free snacks/suppers at afterschool?
Many sites participate in NSLP Afterschool Snack or CACFP At‑Risk; ask your program or call NHED Child Nutrition at (603) 271‑3862. (education.nh.gov) - What if I don’t have a printer or scanner for the CCS application?
Apply online at NH EASY, upload photos from your phone, or take docs to a DHHS District Office. Call 1‑844‑ASK‑DHHS for help. (nh-connections.org) - Are there truly free summer camps in NH?
Yes—Copper Cannon Camp is tuition‑free for eligible NH kids; uses USDA‑style income limits (e.g., 4‑person household $57,720/year). Phone (603) 823‑8107. (coppercannoncamp.org) - Who can help me compare programs quickly?
Child Care Aware of NH gives free referral lists and consumer education: 1‑855‑393‑1731. (nh-connections.org)
Real‑World Mini‑Scenarios
- Summer juggling act: You’re approved for CCS at Step 3. Your 10‑year‑old attends the YMCA day camp full‑time and a Boys & Girls Club teen program later in the day. The CCS state max for school‑age full‑time at a licensed center is 236.25/week∗∗;yourco‑payisyour7236.25/week**; your co‑pay is your 7% share plus any difference. You also use SUN Bucks (**120) to offset grocery costs. (dhhs.nh.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- School‑year safety net: Your school hosts 21st CCLC with homework help and enrichment until evening. Younger sibling goes to a licensed family child care part‑time; CCS covers up to $77.42/week part‑time, and you pay a small co‑pay. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What to Do if a Program or Benefit Isn’t Available
- Ask for a written reason and next steps. Keep denials and waitlist emails; they help when appealing or applying elsewhere.
- Appeal or reapply if your situation changes. If hours increase, or you lose a job and start job search, update DHHS.
- Leverage 2‑1‑1 and local Family Resource Centers to uncover short‑term scholarships, faith‑based options, and transportation help. (211nh.org, fsnh.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED), USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), and established nonprofits (Child Care Aware of NH, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA).
- Research standards: We use primary sources, verify links, archive changes, and update promptly when policies shift. See our Editorial Standards. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
- Key sources with dates:
- NH CCS income limits (85% SMI) and steps, updated July 1, 2024; cost‑share rules updated January 29, 2024. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- NH CCS provider payment maximums, effective August 26, 2024. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- USDA SUN Bucks 2025 benefit levels and NH participation. (fns.usda.gov)
- NHED Afterschool Snack/CACFP contact and FAQs. (education.nh.gov)
- NHED 21st CCLC overview and NHED main line. (education.nh.gov, my.doe.nh.gov)
- Child Care Aware of NH referral lines. (nh-connections.org)
- Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua program fees (2025 pages). (bgcn.com)
- Copper Cannon Camp mission and eligibility (2025 pages). (coppercannoncamp.org)
Disclaimer
Information accuracy: Program rules, rates, and availability can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or program before applying or paying fees.
Not legal advice: This guide is for general information and is not legal or case‑specific advice. Program approval is not guaranteed.
Site security: Use only official .gov or established nonprofit portals linked above when entering personal information. If something feels off, stop and call the program’s official phone number listed in this guide.
Corrections: If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate and respond within 48–72 hours per our editorial policy. (dhhs.nh.gov)
What if none of this solves it this week?
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “short‑term child care scholarships” and “transportation to afterschool.” Then call Child Care Aware for an updated list of providers with openings.
- Ask your school social worker to connect you with district emergency funds or community partners for temporary coverage and meal supports.
You’ve got options—and with the scholarship, school‑based programs, and summer nutrition supports, most families find a workable, affordable plan for the school year and summer.
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- 🦷 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
