Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency child care help now

• If you must keep your job and need urgent child care: call NJ 2‑1‑1 at 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑652‑1148 to locate emergency programs, meal sites, and local assistance. (nj211.org)
• If you or your child is unsafe: call Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline 1‑877‑652‑2873, Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑572‑7233, or 988 for mental‑health crisis. (nj.gov)
• If your child has behavioral or developmental challenges: call Children’s System of Care 1‑877‑652‑7624. (nj.gov)

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Quick help box

• Bottom line: as of August 1, 2025, New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is closed to new applications. Current cases continue if still eligible. Plan B options below can still cover after‑school and summer. (childcarenj.gov)
• Free after‑school options to try first: check your school’s 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) program and Boys & Girls Clubs near you. Use the NJDOE grantee list and the statewide Boys & Girls Club finder. (nj.gov, bgcnj.org)
• Free meals after school and in summer: many sites serve supper or snacks during the school year and free meals in summer. Use state pages to find sites and sponsors. (nj.gov)
• Groceries for summer: Summer EBT pays $120 per eligible child; most families get cards automatically through school enrollment in free/reduced meals, SNAP/TANF/Medicaid, or foster care status. Benefits issued June 2025; funds expire in about four months. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Have a child with disabilities: PerformCare’s CSOC paid summer camp assistance for 2025 closed July 1; look for 2026 details in fall 2025. (performcarenj.org)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

Links to each program appear in the sections below.

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What changed in 2025 that affects you

• CCAP new applications paused: as of August 1, 2025, the state stopped taking new CCAP applications due to limited funding. Existing children keep help if they remain eligible, but you cannot add a new child to an existing case after July 31, 2025. (childcarenj.gov)
• Copayments are back: copays resumed August 1, 2024 for families on CCAP. Copays generally range 0%–5% of income depending on income level, size, and part‑ vs full‑time care. Some advocacy groups report copay increases at redetermination in late 2025; always confirm your exact copay on your PAPA agreement. (childcarenj.gov)
• Your income thresholds at renewal: if your income is at or below 250% of FPL, you remain eligible; if above 250% FPL but under 85% of State Median Income (SMI), you may get a one‑year “graduated phase‑out.” Over 85% SMI ends eligibility. See current dollar limits below. (childcarenj.gov)
• Summer groceries continued: Summer EBT paid $120/child again in 2025; New Jersey distributed benefits to more than 693,000 kids in June. (nj.gov)

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How to pay for after‑school and summer care in New Jersey

New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

What it is: state child care help that can pay for before/after school, care on school breaks, and approved summer youth camps that accept state payments.

Current status: CCAP is closed to new applications; existing cases continue if eligible. You can sign up for reopening alerts on the state’s CCAP page. (childcarenj.gov)

Who can get it when open: New Jersey residents who meet work/school/training rules and income limits; children must be under 13 (or under 19 with qualifying needs) and U.S. citizens/qualified non‑citizens. (childcarenj.gov)

Income limits used at redetermination (2025–2026):

Numbers published by the state for 2025–2026; add $13,750\ast \ast perpersonabove10forFPLtierand\ast \ast$8,415 per person above 10 for SMI tier. (childcarenj.gov)

Copays: families at or below 100% FPL have $0 copay; above that, copays are set on a sliding scale and shown on your PAPA. Copay resumed August 1, 2024. Use the state calculator to estimate your share. (childcarenj.gov)

How CCAP pays providers: CCAP pays up to a state rate; if your provider charges more, you pay any “overage” plus your copay. Choosing a Grow NJ Kids‑rated program can raise the state’s rate and shrink your overage. (childcarenj.gov)

Where to get help: the Child Care Helpline is 1‑800‑332‑9227; your county CCR&R can explain rates, copays, and providers that accept CCAP. County contacts are in the table below. (childcarenj.gov)

Typical timeline: current redeterminations run on 12‑month cycles. New applications are paused; when reopened, expect several weeks for eligibility review depending on county volume. (childcarenj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: see WorkFirst NJ child care below, 21st CCLC and Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA scholarships, and Summer EBT/SFSP for food cost relief. (nj.gov, nj.gov, westfieldynj.org)

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WorkFirst New Jersey (WFNJ/TANF) child care

Why this matters right now: while CCAP new applications are paused, WFNJ families in approved work activities can receive child care, including after‑school and summer care, with no delay for starting work. A case manager refers you to your CCR&R. Transitional child care can continue up to 24 months after you leave TANF for work. (nj.gov)

How to start: apply for WFNJ online or through your county social services agency; most decisions occur within about 30 days, faster for “immediate need.” Ask your worker to activate child care right away. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if you’re not eligible for WFNJ, pivot to free after‑school (21st CCLC), Summer EBT, and SFSP meals; ask YMCA/Boys & Girls Clubs about scholarships. (nj.gov, nj.gov)

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Free after‑school options: 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)

What it is: federally funded, no‑cost after‑school and summer learning at selected schools and community sites, focused on academics, enrichment, wellness, and family engagement. New Jersey has roughly 67 funded programs across many districts and nonprofits. (nj.gov)

How to find a site: use the NJDOE 21st CCLC grantee list to identify programs by county and district, then contact the program listed for enrollment steps and dates. Seats fill fast each semester. (nj.gov)

2025 funding note: NJDOE posted continuation and competitive grant rounds; advocacy groups reported a federal award delay in July 2025 that could affect program timing. If your school’s program is on hold, ask the district for interim after‑school options and check Boys & Girls Clubs or YMCA programs. (njsacc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your school counselor about district‑run extended‑day programs or fee waivers; try your local Boys & Girls Club or YMCA; seek CACFP At‑Risk supper sites for free meals paired with programming. (bgcnj.org, westfieldynj.org, nj.gov)

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Free meals after school and in summer

Afterschool supper/snack (CACFP At‑Risk): programs located in eligible school areas can serve free suppers or snacks to all children on site, no applications needed. The NJ Department of Agriculture administers; NJSACC has how‑to info and county nutrition specialist contacts. (nj.gov, njsacc.org)

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP): free meals at parks, libraries, and schools each summer. NJDA posts sponsor and feeding‑site lists and the program phone 609‑292‑4498 for help. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if a site is far or hours don’t match your job, use Summer EBT to buy groceries and ask libraries about summer reading programs with snacks. (nj.gov, njstatelib.org)

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Summer EBT (Sun Bucks) in New Jersey

Benefit: $120 per eligible child for summer groceries in 2025 (same amount set nationally for the contiguous states). Cards were mailed or loaded in June; families have roughly 122 days to spend the funds before they expire. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)

Who qualifies: children approved for free or reduced‑price school meals and most students in SNAP/TANF, income‑eligible Medicaid, or foster care are included; others can apply through the school meal application. Check balances at NJFamiliesFirst.com or the ConnectEBT app. (nj.gov)

Where to learn more: see the state’s Summer EBT info hub for FAQs and contacts. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if your school meal form was late or your address changed, call your district’s food service office to update records and ask about replacement cards; meanwhile, use SFSP meal sites. (nj.gov)

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Find safe, licensed summer camps and after‑school programs

Check camp safety: NJ Department of Health licenses “youth camps” that operate two or more days per week and include any high‑risk activity. Use the state’s active permit search to confirm a camp is licensed; you can also file complaints. Phone support is 609‑913‑5281 and email youth.camps@doh.nj.gov. (nj.gov)

Know the rules: state rules set training for camp directors/health directors, CPR/first‑aid requirements, and accident reporting; the annual accident report is due to DOH by mid‑September each year. (nj.gov, nj.gov)

Find accredited camps: the American Camp Association NY & NJ lists accredited camps and offers free placement help (Camper Placement Specialist 212‑391‑5208 x1002). Ask camps directly about “camperships” and sliding‑scale aid. (acanynj.org, acacamps.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if cost is still too high, ask local YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs about scholarships and reduced fees; apply early. (westfieldynj.org, metroymcas.org)

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County Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) contacts

Your CCR&R helps you search programs, understand subsidies, and troubleshoot paperwork.

County listings and more numbers are on the state CCR&R page and local CCR&R websites. If you can’t reach your county, call the state Child Care Helpline 1‑800‑332‑9227. (childcarenj.gov, ccccunion.org)

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Program comparison at a glance

Sources: NJ DHS/DFD, NJDOE, NJDA, USDA FNS, and NJSACC. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov, nj.gov)

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Key dates and realistic timelines

Citations: CCAP closure, copays, Summer EBT timing, CSOC dates, SFSP deadline. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov, performcarenj.org, nj.gov)

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Meals program quick compare

Citations: NJDA CACFP page, press releases, SFSP page. (nj.gov)

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Real‑world examples (what works in practice)

• Example: a mom in Newark working full‑time signs up her 3rd‑grader for a 21st CCLC program at the child’s school. The program runs until early evening, covers homework help and enrichment, and is free. She pairs this with the school’s CACFP supper, cutting dinner costs and keeping her pickup simple. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Example: a mom in Trenton leaving TANF for a job gets transitional child care through WFNJ for up to 24 months. She places her 1st‑grader in school‑age care and uses Summer EBT for groceries while comparing camp scholarships at her local YMCA. (nj.gov, nj.gov, westfieldynj.org)

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Local organizations that often provide after‑school and camps

• Boys & Girls Clubs: statewide finder and downloadable club list; many sites offer low‑cost or scholarship‑supported after‑school and summer. (bgcnj.org)
• YMCAs: most branches offer school‑age care and camps with need‑based aid; check your branch’s “financial assistance” page. (westfieldynj.org, metroymcas.org)
• Libraries: summer reading programs and events, often with prizes and occasional snacks; ask your local library about dates. (njstatelib.org)
• Food banks: Food Bank of South Jersey’s Kids Thrive 365 and Community FoodBank of NJ “Kids Cafes” support after‑school and summer nutrition. (foodbanksj.org, cfbnj.org)

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Diverse communities and tailored tips

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: see DCF LGBTQIA+ Resources for statewide supports and helplines; HiTOPS hosts youth groups and a parent support group. For affirming after‑school settings, ask programs about staff training on inclusion and bullying prevention before enrolling. (nj.gov, hitops.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: call Children’s System of Care 1‑877‑652‑7624 to explore in‑home services and 2026 CSOC Summer Camp Services when posted; confirm camps can provide 1:1 aides if needed. (performcarenj.org)
• Veteran and military single mothers: if on‑base care isn’t available, Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN/MCCYN‑PLUS) helps with community programs; NJ participates and uses Grow NJ Kids ratings under MCCYN‑PLUS. The NJ National Guard also runs youth camps and family support programs. (childcarenj.gov, childcareaware.org, nj.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: NJ 2‑1‑1 offers multilingual help; many after‑school programs don’t require immigration status for a child to participate. Ask your school for translated forms and interpreters. (nj211.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: the NJ Commission on American Indian Affairs provides contacts and updates for Native communities in NJ; ask about youth events and scholarships. Families with ties to Nanticoke Lenni‑Lenape or other nations can also inquire about regional cultural youth programs. (nj.gov)
• Rural single moms: where transportation is the blocker, look for programs in schools (21st CCLC) and libraries to cut travel time; use Summer EBT plus SFSP mobile meal sites when available. (nj.gov)
• Single fathers: all programs here apply equally; the CCR&R can enroll any eligible parent or caregiver. (childcarenj.gov)
• Language access: ask your district and CCR&R for translated documents and interpreter help; NJ 2‑1‑1 and many hotlines are multilingual. (nj211.org)

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Application checklist (use this before you apply anywhere)

• Proof of New Jersey residency (lease, utility bill)
• Photo ID for the parent/guardian
• Proof of income (most recent pay stubs, award letters)
• Work/school/training schedule (or TANF plan if on WFNJ)
• Child’s birth certificate and immunization records
• School info (student ID, grade, homeroom if applicable)
• Special needs documentation (IEP/504 or CSOC eligibility)
• Provider details (program name, address, hours requested)
• Back‑up plan (second provider choice if first is full)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing deadlines: 21st CCLC and camps fill quickly; enroll as soon as the school posts registration.
• Assuming “licensed” equals “affordable”: always ask for scholarships, sliding‑scale fees, or payment plans.
• Not checking copays/overages: even with CCAP, providers can charge above state rates—get total monthly cost up front. (childcarenj.gov)
• Forgetting meal help: combine after‑school supper and Summer EBT to lower food spending. (nj.gov)
• Not confirming camp licensure: look up the camp in NJDOH’s database before paying deposits. (healthapps.state.nj.us)

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What to do if your first choice falls through

• If CCAP is closed: apply for WFNJ if eligible; otherwise pivot to free 21st CCLC, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA aid, and meal programs. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• If 21st CCLC is waitlisted: ask your principal for alternative district programs or partner sites; request fee waivers where available.
• If camp is too costly: contact the camp director about “camperships,” ask your YMCA for financial aid, and search ACA’s database for lower‑cost programs. (acacamps.org)

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Taxes that can lower after‑school and camp costs

• NJ Child & Dependent Care Credit: if you claim the federal credit, you may qualify for a refundable NJ credit even with moderate income. Summer day camp counts; overnight camp does not. (nj.gov)
• Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit: day camp and before/after‑school care so you can work may count; keep receipts and the provider’s Tax ID for Form 2441. (irs.gov)

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Region‑by‑region ideas (a few to get you started)

• North: Newark YMCA school‑age care (aid available); Boys & Girls Clubs in Paterson/Passaic; county CCR&Rs in Bergen, Essex, Passaic for referrals. (newarkymca.org, nj.gov)
• Central: Child Care Connection (Mercer) and Community Child Care Solutions (Middlesex/Somerset) for provider lists; Raritan Bay Area YMCA and YMCA of MEWSA for scholarships. (nj.gov, ymcaofmewsa.org)
• Shore: Child Care Resources of Monmouth County; YMCA of the Jersey Shore offers financial assistance for care and camps. (ccccunion.org, ymcanj.org)
• South: Boys & Girls Clubs in Atlantic/Camden; Food Bank of South Jersey runs Kids Thrive 365 and summer meal sites across Camden/Gloucester/Salem/Burlington. (nj.gov, foodbanksj.org)

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Tables with key numbers

CCAP income thresholds at renewal (2025–2026)

These are from the state’s CCAP “Important Information” page for 2025–2026. (childcarenj.gov)

Summer EBT 2025 essentials

Source: USDA benefit levels and NJDA press release. (fns.usda.gov, nj.gov)

Free meals programs at a glance

Source: NJDA and USDA program pages. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Selected CCR&R directory

Use the state CCR&R map for the full list and phone numbers shown above. (childcarenj.gov, ccccunion.org)

Safe camp look‑up

Citations: NJDOH youth camps portal and ACA. (healthapps.state.nj.us, nj.gov, find.acacamps.org)

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How to pick a program fast (without regrets)

• Start with your school: ask about 21st CCLC or district‑run after‑school.
• Layer supports: pair after‑school with CACFP supper and Summer EBT.
• Call your CCR&R: they know which sites accept subsidy, which offer scholarships, and what fills first in your county. (childcarenj.gov)
• Do a safety check: look up the camp/license; ask about staff‑to‑child ratios, dismissal procedures, and medication policies. (healthapps.state.nj.us)

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Frequently asked questions (New Jersey‑specific)

• Is CCAP still taking applications: No. New applications stopped on August 1, 2025. Existing cases continue if eligible. (childcarenj.gov)
• Can I add my younger child to my CCAP case: No after July 31, 2025. You can’t add new children until CCAP reopens. (childcarenj.gov)
• Do 21st CCLC programs charge fees: They are funded to provide services at no cost to students at grantee sites; ask your school’s program for specific details and schedules. (nj.gov)
• What if my after‑school doesn’t serve food: look for a CACFP At‑Risk site nearby or plan an early dinner; many libraries or community centers host meal sites. (nj.gov)
• How much will Summer EBT pay in 2026: USDA set $120/child for 2025; future amounts are announced annually—check the state hub each spring. (fns.usda.gov)
• Can overnight camp be covered by tax credits: overnight camp is not eligible for the federal Child & Dependent Care Credit; day camp is eligible. (irs.gov)
• Are there scholarships if I don’t qualify for CCAP: yes—ask your YMCA or camp about financial assistance; many programs reserve reduced‑fee slots. (westfieldynj.org)
• Where do I report an unsafe camp: file a complaint with NJDOH’s Youth Camps program and notify your local health department. (nj.gov)
• Do WFNJ participants lose child care when they start work: you can receive transitional child care for up to 24 months after leaving TANF for work. (nj.gov)
• Who can help me compare options quickly: call your CCR&R or NJ 2‑1‑1; for camps, ACA NY & NJ’s placement specialist can help you narrow choices. (childcarenj.gov, acanynj.org)

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About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, New Jersey Department of Education, New Jersey Department of Agriculture, New Jersey Department of Health, USDA, and established nonprofits such as NJSACC, Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey, and the American Camp Association NY & NJ. It follows our Editorial Policy for source verification, inclusivity, change‑tracking, and timely updates. (childcarenj.gov)

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026

Corrections and feedback: email info@asinglemother.org; we respond within 48–72 hours per our editorial standards. (performcarenj.org)

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Disclaimer

Important: program details, funding status, amounts, and deadlines change. Always verify current rules with the relevant state agency, school district, or provider before you enroll or pay. We do not provide legal advice or guarantee outcomes. This site is maintained by researchers and is not a government agency. For your safety and privacy, keep your device’s software updated and avoid submitting personal information over public Wi‑Fi. (performcarenj.org)

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Sources you can trust

• CCAP program status, income limits, copays, calculator, and CCR&R directory: start at ChildCareNJ (state DHS/DFD). (childcarenj.gov)
• WFNJ child care and timelines: WorkFirst NJ pages. (nj.gov)
• 21st CCLC program and grantees: NJDOE 21st CCLC overview and grantee abstracts. (nj.gov)
• Afterschool and summer meals: NJDA CACFP and SFSP pages; USDA FNS info. (nj.gov, nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Summer EBT 2025: NJ Department of Agriculture press release and USDA benefit notice. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Youth camp safety and licensing: NJDOH youth camps portal and rules. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
• ACA accredited camps and affordability guidance: ACA NY & NJ and ACA national resources. (acanynj.org, acacamps.org)
• Hotlines: DCF Hotlines & Helplines. (nj.gov)
• LGBTQ+ resources: DCF LGBTQIA+ page; HiTOPS youth support groups. (nj.gov, hitops.org)
• Military families: NJ DHS MCCYN page; Child Care Aware of America MCCYN info; NJ National Guard youth programs. (childcarenj.gov, childcareaware.org, nj.gov)
• NJ State Library summer reading: statewide program info for summer activities. (njstatelib.org)

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Content gaps we closed versus typical search results

• Actionable Plan B while CCAP is paused: we prioritized WFNJ child care, free after‑school (21st CCLC), and YMCA/Boys & Girls Club scholarships—all with direct contacts and timelines.
• Exact 2025 numbers: we included current 250% FPL and 85% SMI dollar amounts, and $120/child Summer EBT details with expiration windows.
• Safety verification: direct link and phone/email for NJDOH licensed camp lookup and complaint filing.
• Meals pairing: step‑by‑step on combining CACFP supper/SFSP meals with after‑school and camps to lower family food costs.
• County‑level navigation: a CCR&R contact table plus the state helpline for fast routing.

If you see anything that needs an update, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast. (performcarenj.org)

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Tip: print this page and keep it with your child’s school folder; highlight the programs and phone numbers you’ll actually use this semester.

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