Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help right now
- Call 9‑1‑1 for immediate danger: If there’s a safety emergency at pickup or drop‑off, call 911 and tell the dispatcher it’s a child safety or behavioral health emergency so they can send the right responders. (911.nd.gov)
- Free 24/7 talk, text, or chat: Dial 988 for mental health or text/chat via the 988 Lifeline; dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 for help finding local food, transportation, child care, and crisis services. (nd.gov, myfirstlink.org)
- If summer food is the issue: Use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder to locate a free meal site near you and check hours for today. (fns.usda.gov)
Quick help box
- Find licensed afterschool or summer care fast: Use the state’s search tool and look for Bright & Early ND quality ratings. North Dakota child care search and ratings. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Lower your costs with Child Care Assistance: If your monthly income is at or below the current limits, CCAP can pay part of your before/after‑school or summer child care bill directly to your provider. Apply online or by phone at 1‑866‑614‑6005 or 701‑328‑1000. Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) overview and application. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Free food support tied to afterschool and summer: Many school and community sites serve free afterschool snacks or meals during the school year and free meals in summer; Summer EBT “SUN Bucks” add $120 per child. See eligibility and dates. ND Summer EBT and USDA 2025 benefit notice. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
Program | What you get | Who qualifies | Where to start |
---|---|---|---|
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) | Free/low‑cost afterschool and summer learning at school/community sites | Offered in high‑need schools; enrollment varies by district; usually free | Current ND grantees and site contacts: NDDPI 21st CCLC programs. (nd.gov) |
CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program) | State pays a portion of your before/after‑school or summer child care | Based on income, activity (work/school), age; 2024‑25 monthly limits (family of 3 6,462∗∗;4∗∗6,462**; 4 **7,694; 5 8,924∗∗;6∗∗8,924**; 6 **10,155) | Apply online or call 1‑866‑614‑6005. Apply for CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Summer EBT “SUN Bucks” | $120 per eligible child, EBT card mailed starting May 2025 | Children eligible for free/reduced‑price school meals; also SNAP/TANF/Medicaid/FDPIR, foster, migrant, homeless | ND details and income table: ND HHS SUN Bucks. (hhs.nd.gov) |
Free summer meals (SFSP/SUN Meals) | Free on‑site meals for kids 18 and under (some rural to‑go options) | Open to all at approved sites | Find a site map and hours: USDA Summer Meals Site Finder. (fns.usda.gov) |
Afterschool meals/snacks | Free snacks or suppers at eligible afterschool programs | Offered by schools and community programs | Program basics and rates: ND DPI CACFP. (nd.gov) |
What makes this guide different
What we covered that many top results miss: real dollar amounts for CCAP income limits and provider maximums, current Summer EBT benefit and timing, free meal finders, named programs with rates and phone numbers, processing timelines, region‑specific options, and “Plan B” if the first option doesn’t work. Sources are official state/federal agencies or established nonprofits and were verified for September 2025 per our editorial standards. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Start here if you need help this month
CCAP to lower your before/after‑school or summer care bill
Why this matters first: CCAP can cover a chunk of your licensed school‑age care cost so you can keep working or training. Payments go to your provider and you pay a sliding co‑pay.
Key income limits for Oct 2024 – Sept 2025: for a family of 2 5,231∗∗,3∗∗5,231**, 3 **6,462, 4 7,694∗∗,5∗∗7,694**, 5 **8,924, 6 10,155∗∗monthlybeforetaxes.Householdsmustalsohaveassetsunder∗∗10,155** monthly before taxes. Households must also have assets under **1,000,000 and be working, in school/training, or temporarily job‑seeking if homeless. Children are generally covered until the period in which they turn 13 (up to 19 with special needs). (hhs.nd.gov)
Typical approval timeline: ND policy requires a decision within up to 30 days after your signed application is received, with up to 45 days if there are documented extenuating circumstances. (nd.gov)
What CCAP may pay at most each month for school‑age “Other (6 up to 13)” care: Center 855∗∗full‑timeor∗∗855** full‑time or **595 part‑time; Licensed family/group 812∗∗full‑timeor∗∗812** full‑time or **731 part‑time; Self‑declared/tribal registered 569∗∗full‑timeor∗∗569** full‑time or **341 part‑time; Approved relative 374∗∗full‑timeor∗∗374** full‑time or **224 part‑time. Your co‑pay depends on income and family size. (hhs.nd.gov)
How to apply fast: Apply online in the Self‑Service Portal or call the Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 or 701‑328‑1000. You can also mail or take an application to your Human Service Zone office if you want in‑person help. (hhs.nd.gov)
Documents to gather: ID, children’s birth certificates, last month and current month income proofs, Social Security numbers, any court‑ordered support papers. If attending school/training, add your class schedule. (hhs.nd.gov)
Special note for child care workers: If you work at a licensed program 25+ hours/week, you can get your co‑pay waived and CCAP can pay up to the state max rates even if you’re over income. Submit form SFN 354 with your CCAP application. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider about scholarships or sliding‑fee discounts; check Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and Park District programs listed below for lower‑cost school‑age care; call 211 to find local charities that help with child care or work transportation. (myfirstlink.org)
Free food linked to afterschool and summer
Summer EBT “SUN Bucks”
What you get: A one‑time $120 per eligible child on an EBT card each summer. In 2025, ND mailed cards starting in May and continues issuing as families are approved. Benefits expire 122 days after issuance. (hhs.nd.gov)
Who qualifies: Children approved for free/reduced‑price school meals or in SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or FDPIR households; foster, migrant, and homeless students also qualify. The federal 2025 benefit for the 48 states remains 120∗∗total(threemonthsat∗∗120** total (three months at **40 each). (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Where to check status or ask for help: See ND’s SUN Bucks page for the school year 2024‑25 income table and contact options. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the USDA Summer Meals site finder to locate free on‑site meals near you; many YMCA and school sites serve breakfast and lunch with no paperwork. (fns.usda.gov)
Free afterschool snacks and suppers
How it shows up in real life: Many afterschool programs in ND serve a free snack or full supper through CACFP “At‑Risk Afterschool” or the NSLP Afterschool Snack Service. Families don’t pay at eligible sites. (fns.usda.gov)
ND state rates for providers in 2024‑25: CACFP free snack 1.21∗∗,freesupper∗∗1.21**, free supper **4.43 per meal (for provider reimbursement; there is no cost to the child). For NSLP Afterschool Snack, the free rate is $1.21 per snack. This helps programs keep costs down. (nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child’s school doesn’t offer snacks, ask the district nutrition director or principal about adding Afterschool Snack or joining CACFP “At‑Risk”; districts get reimbursed when at least 50% of a site’s students qualify for free/reduced meals. (fns.usda.gov)
School‑based and community afterschool options
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)
Why it matters: 21st CCLC programs offer free or low‑cost afterschool and summer learning, tutoring, and family activities—often at Title I schools. ND currently funds 11 grantees operating over 100 sites statewide; contact your region’s grantee from the state list. (nd.gov)
Where to find the right contact: Use the NDDPI “Current 21st CCLC Programs” page—phone numbers are listed for West Fargo, Minot, Grand Forks, regional education cooperatives, and more. (nd.gov)
Reality check for 2025: Federal grant awards were temporarily paused mid‑summer 2025, and ND programs reported uncertainty heading into the school year. Ask your site if schedules or fees are changing while funding is reviewed. (northdakotamonitor.com, inforum.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your local 21st CCLC site is full or paused, go to the ND Afterschool Network program map to find other out‑of‑school‑time options near you. (ndafterschoolnetwork.com)
ND Afterschool Network
One map to see what exists: The Network keeps a statewide, self‑reported map of out‑of‑school‑time programs (afterschool and summer). It’s updated by programs and can help you spot openings outside school sites. ND Afterschool Network OST Map. (ndafterschoolnetwork.com)
Quality tips: Their family guides show what “high‑quality” looks like—observe staff‑to‑child interactions, safety practices, and daily schedules before you sign up. (ndafterschoolnetwork.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 to ask a navigator for youth program referrals in your county, including churches and nonprofits not on the map. (myfirstlink.org)
Local, named options with current fees and contacts
Use these real examples to compare costs and make a plan—fees can change each school year and programs fill early.
- Bismarck Parks & Recreation BLAST: Recreation‑based afterschool at multiple elementary schools, 150/month∗∗with∗∗150/month** with **300 due at registration (first and last month). Enrollment draws for 2025‑26 occurred in June–July; call the main office if you missed the drawing. BLAST details and sites. (bisparks.org)
- Mandan Parks & Recreation MAC: After‑school runs to 6:00 pm at select schools; 150/month∗∗with∗∗150/month** with **300 deposit, and a Fort Lincoln morning option at 50/month∗∗with∗∗50/month** with **100 deposit. Summer MAC 2025 ran May 27–Aug 8 at $1,500 total with payment schedule. School‑year MAC and Summer MAC. (mandanparks.com)
- Bismarck YMCA School‑Age Care: 2025‑26 monthly rates including transportation—AM only 191∗∗member/∗∗191** member/**256 non‑member; PM only 254∗∗member/∗∗254** member/**320 non‑member; AM+PM 316∗∗member/∗∗316** member/**384 non‑member; $75 registration fee. Missouri Valley Family YMCA school‑age programs. (bismarckymca.org)
- Fargo/West Fargo YMCA Northern Sky: After‑school averages 23/day∗∗full‑time(∗∗23/day** full‑time (**115/week), with additional fees for school‑out days; scholarships available. YMCA tuition and assistance. (ymcanorthernsky.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley (Fargo): 2024‑25 after‑school rate 16/day∗∗andnon‑schoolday∗∗16/day** and non‑school day **38.50/day; 2025‑26 after‑school 19.75/day∗∗andnon‑schoolday∗∗19.75/day** and non‑school day **41.50/day; family registration $20. Teen center membership is free in 2024‑25 thanks to local support. K‑5 program and rates and Forms & Registration. (bgcrrv.org)
- Grand Forks Public Schools ENCORE: Academic afterschool program 3:00–5:30 pm at multiple elementaries; includes homework help, enrichment, and snack. Contact the ENCORE Director at 701‑215‑8041 to ask about current availability. ENCORE program page. (gfschools.org)
- Williston Parks & Recreation Campus Club: School‑year fees based on lunch status—FREE 100/add’lchild∗∗;Reduced∗∗100/add’l child**; Reduced **150 then 75/add’l∗∗;Full∗∗75/add’l**; Full **250 then 125/add’l∗∗.Summer2025sessionscharged∗∗125/add’l**. Summer 2025 sessions charged **200–$400 per month per child by lunch status. Campus Club afterschool and Campus Club summer. (willistonparks.com)
- Fargo/West Fargo free summer meals: The YMCA hosted multiple free on‑site breakfast/lunch sites in 2025 under SFSP (e.g., Schlossman YMCA, Urban Plains, Eastwood Elementary). Check summer hours each year. YMCA Summer Meal Program sites and hours. (ymcanorthernsky.org)
- Minot Family YMCA “School’s Out Days” and camps: One‑day camps when school is closed; summer kinder/day camp options with posted fees and dates. Minot YMCA camp pages. (ymcaminot.org)
What to do if none of these fit: Use the ND Afterschool map and the state child care search, ask your school counselor about 21st CCLC or district programs, and call 211 to screen for scholarship funds in your county. (ndafterschoolnetwork.com, hhs.nd.gov, myfirstlink.org)
Free and low‑cost enrichment that pairs well with child care
- North Dakota 4‑H Camp (Washburn): Affordable overnight camps for grades 3–8 with need‑based camp scholarships; contact 701‑328‑9715 or 701‑877‑2584. Some counties (via North Dakota Farm Bureau) also sponsor scholarships. NDSU 4‑H Camps and NDFB 4‑H camp scholarships. (ndsu.edu, ndfb.org)
- State Library Summer Reading + College SAVE: Public libraries run “Color Our World” summer reading with chances for 529∗∗CollegeSAVEawardsand∗∗529** College SAVE awards and **25 new‑account credits for completers. Check your library’s dates. ND State Library Summer Reading hub and Bank of ND College SAVE Summer Reading Champions. (library.nd.gov, bnd.nd.gov)
Getting to and from programs
Transit options: ND’s statewide transit network covers rural counties and cities (demand‑response and fixed routes), with providers like Bis‑Man Transit, MATBUS, Minot City Transit, and county services. Use NDDOT’s Transit Providers map to get phone numbers and hours. (dot.nd.gov)
A few direct contacts: Bis‑Man Transit 701‑258‑6817, Souris Basin Transportation 701‑852‑8008, West River Transit 701‑224‑1876, Valley Senior Services (Fargo) 701‑293‑1440. See the Dakota Transit Association directory for more providers. (dakotatransit.org)
What to do if rides fall through: Ask your program about late pickup grace periods and backup contacts; some YMCAs and park programs allow a friend or neighbor listed on your form to pick up with ID.
Safety and quality checklist when choosing a program
Check licensing and quality: Use the state child care licensing portal to view a program’s license status and inspections; look for Bright & Early ND quality ratings. Licensing portal info and Bright & Early ND for families. (hhs.nd.gov)
Know staff‑to‑child ratios for school‑age care: In licensed centers and school‑age programs, one staff member may supervise up to 20 children ages 6–12 (max group 40) under ND Administrative Code. Group child care uses a point/ratio system with the same 1:20 baseline for ages 6–12. (regulations.justia.com)
ND Afterschool quality tips: Observe relationships, safety, and schedule; ask about staff training and daily academics/enrichment. (ndafterschoolnetwork.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a program’s license is lapsed or has unresolved corrective orders, choose another option and report concerns through the licensing portal.
How to apply: step‑by‑step
- Step 1: Decide if you need licensed care or an extended‑day program: Licensed care is eligible for CCAP; some recreation programs are not. Confirm your site’s status before applying. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Step 2: Apply for CCAP online: Create a North Dakota Login and submit the child care request in the Self‑Service Portal. Upload income, ID, and class schedule (if in school). Call 1‑866‑614‑6005 if you get stuck. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Step 3: Ask your provider to hold a spot: Tell them you’ve applied for CCAP and when you expect a decision; ND decisions are due in up to 30 days (up to 45 with extenuating circumstances). (nd.gov)
- Step 4: Report changes fast: New job hours, new provider, or address changes can affect payments; submit changes through the SSP or call the Customer Support Center. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Step 5: Use free meal programs to stretch your budget: Check afterschool snack/supper at your site, and use the Summer Meals map during school breaks. (nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming you make too much for CCAP: ND’s limits are higher than many expect (family of 4 up to $7,694/month); apply and let the worker calculate your co‑pay. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Choosing a program before checking licensing and ratios: Always verify license status and capacity/ratio compliance. (hhs.nd.gov, regulations.justia.com)
- Missing CCAP paperwork: Incomplete income proofs or missing class schedules can delay approvals. Use the checklist below. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Not asking about scholarships: Many YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and park districts have assistance or sliding‑fee options—ask at registration time. (ymcanorthernsky.org)
- Forgetting free food programs: Afterschool snacks/suppers and summer meals are free—no EBT balance needed at the site. (fns.usda.gov)
Application checklist
- Proof of identity for you: Driver’s license or photo ID. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Proof of identity for your kids: Birth certificates. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Income proofs: Last month and current month pay stubs or self‑employment records; any child support or other income. (hhs.nd.gov)
- School/training: Current class schedule if using care to attend school. (hhs.nd.gov)
- SSNs: For caretaker and children if you choose to provide them; it’s optional for CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Provider details: Name, license type, and hours so CCAP can pay correctly. (hhs.nd.gov)
Financial boosts many families miss
- Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: Claim up to 35% of up to 3,000∗∗inwork‑relatedcareexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** in work‑related care expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more; the credit percentage depends on your AGI and is generally 20–35%. File IRS Form 2441. (irs.gov)
- Dependent Care FSA: If your employer offers it, you can pay up to 5,000∗∗pre‑taxfordependentcare(or∗∗5,000** pre‑tax for dependent care (or **2,500 married filing separately), which often saves more than the tax credit for higher‑tax‑rate earners. See IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask programs about anti‑bullying policies and family‑inclusion training; most YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs publish inclusion statements and offer need‑based aid—ask for their scholarship form or fee cap policy. (ymcanorthernsky.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Confirm ADA accessibility, behavior supports, and 1:1 accommodations; ND licensing requires adequate supervision without harming care for others. Consider programs tied to school special education teams for smooth supports. (law.cornell.edu)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask local transit about Veteran transportation or reduced fares for medical visits tied to camp/aftercare schedules; NDDOT highlights programs and intercity connectors. (dot.nd.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single mothers: If language is a barrier, call 211 and ask for interpretation; 9‑1‑1 and 988 can add interpreters when needed. Schools can offer translated notices and may have 21st CCLC or ENCORE‑style programs. (myfirstlink.org, 911.nd.gov, gfschools.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Boys & Girls Club sites on Fort Berthold (Three Affiliated Tribes) operate youth programming in communities like New Town, Mandaree, Parshall, Twin Buttes, and White Shield—ask about afterschool and summer sessions. Standing Rock programs also support youth; contact your tribal education or youth center. (guidestar.org, nationalmentoringresourcecenter.org)
- Rural single mothers: Use county transit demand‑response for pickups when you can’t drive; it’s open to the public with 24‑hour notice in most areas. If afterschool options are limited, ask your principal about forming a new site with CACFP snacks or 21st CCLC support. (dot.nd.gov, nd.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs listed—CCAP, Summer EBT, free meals, 21st CCLC—serve single fathers on the same terms. Use the same application steps and contacts. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Language access: ND public websites often include translation tools; for phone help you can request interpreters through 211, 988, and many school offices. (myfirstlink.org, nd.gov)
Resources by region
- Fargo/West Fargo: YMCA afterschool and school‑out‑day care; Boys & Girls Clubs at multiple elementary schools; free summer meal sites hosted by the YMCA and schools. YMCA tuition and assistance and Boys & Girls Clubs rates and sites. (ymcanorthernsky.org, bgcrrv.org)
- Bismarck/Mandan: BLAST and MAC afterschool programs with published monthly fees; YMCA school‑age care with transportation included in rates. BLAST, Mandan MAC, Bismarck YMCA school‑age. (bisparks.org, mandanparks.com, bismarckymca.org)
- Grand Forks: ENCORE afterschool at multiple schools; ask about early dismissal coverage and snack. ENCORE details. (gfschools.org)
- Minot: YMCA camps and school‑out‑day programming; City transit for rides. Minot Family YMCA and Minot City Transit contact. (ymcaminot.org, dakotatransit.org)
- Williston: Campus Club afterschool and summer sessions with tiered tuition by lunch status; ARC hosts youth activities. Campus Club and Williston ARC. (willistonparks.com, wpdis.specialdistrict.org)
Timelines and what to expect
Task | Realistic timeline | Notes |
---|---|---|
CCAP decision | Up to 30 days; up to 45 with documented extenuating circumstances | Keep your phone and email updated; payments go directly to providers once approved. (nd.gov) |
Summer EBT card mailing | Cards mailed starting May each year; allow 10–14 days after issuance notice | Benefits expire 122 days after issuance—spend them first. (hhs.nd.gov) |
21st CCLC enrollment | Fills quickly in late summer; some districts keep waitlists | Funding pauses may shift schedules—ask your site to confirm hours/fees. (northdakotamonitor.com) |
Summer meals site hours | Vary by site; finder updates weekly on Fridays during summer | Use the map; bring kids on time—most sites are eat‑on‑site only. (fns.usda.gov) |
Frequently asked questions
- Q: Can CCAP help with before‑school care only or after‑school only?
A: Yes—CCAP can approve before‑school, after‑school, school‑out days, and summer care with licensed or approved providers; payment uses state maximums and a sliding co‑pay. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: My school has ENCORE or 21st CCLC—does that affect CCAP?
A: If it’s free, CCAP won’t pay for the same hours; if your child needs care beyond the program’s hours, CCAP can cover the additional licensed care you use. Ask your worker how to report the schedule. (nd.gov, hhs.nd.gov) - Q: Do I have to be employed to get CCAP?
A: Generally yes—work or approved education/training is required, with a temporary allowance if you’re experiencing homelessness and job‑seeking. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: How do I check if a program is licensed and safe?
A: Use the online Child Care Licensing system to view license status and inspection reports and look for Bright & Early ND ratings. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: What ages count as “school‑age” for CCAP rates?
A: “Other (6 up to 13)” is the CCAP school‑age category; youth with special needs can qualify up to 19. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: Our budget is tight—where can we get free food tied to afterschool/summer?
A: Check your program for CACFP suppers/snacks and use the USDA site finder for summer meals; Summer EBT adds $120 per eligible child on an EBT card. (nd.gov, fns.usda.gov) - Q: Can I use CCAP at a self‑declared or tribal‑registered provider?
A: Yes—CCAP pays different maximums by provider type, including self‑declared or tribal‑registered and approved relatives. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: Do programs have to meet staff‑to‑child ratios for school‑age kids?
A: Yes—licensed centers and school‑age programs must meet minimum staffing and max group sizes (typically 1:20 for ages 6–12; max group 40). (regulations.justia.com) - Q: Is there transportation help for afterschool?
A: Many Y/park programs include or coordinate transport; otherwise contact your transit provider (e.g., Bis‑Man Transit 701‑258‑6817, Souris Basin 701‑852‑8008). (bismarckymca.org, dakotatransit.org) - Q: We’re doubled up or in a motel—who can help with school stability and afterschool?
A: Ask your district’s McKinney‑Vento homeless liaison for support, including before/after‑school and summer learning access; NDDPI lists liaisons and state contacts. (nd.gov)
Helpful tables
Which option fits your situation
Situation | Best first call | Why |
---|---|---|
Need immediate, affordable afterschool care | CCAP | Can reduce your bill quickly if you meet income/activity rules; decision in up to 30 days. (hhs.nd.gov, nd.gov) |
Need enrichment and tutoring with little or no cost | 21st CCLC / District program | Often free at Title I schools; includes academics and activities. (nd.gov) |
Food cost spikes during breaks | Summer EBT + Summer Meals | Combines take‑home SUN Bucks and on‑site free meals. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
Living rural with long commutes | Transit provider + local park/rec | Demand‑response rides + affordable programs at schools/parks. (dot.nd.gov) |
CCAP school‑age provider maximums per month (effective July 2024)
Provider type | Full‑time “Other (6–12)” | Part‑time “Other (6–12)” |
---|---|---|
Center | $855 | $595 |
Licensed family/group | $812 | $731 |
Self‑declared/Tribal registered | $569 | $341 |
Approved relative | $374 | $224 |
Source CCAP state rates: ND HHS CCAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
CCAP monthly income limits (Oct 2024 – Sept 2025)
Family size | Max monthly income |
---|---|
2 | $5,231 |
3 | $6,462 |
4 | $7,694 |
5 | $8,924 |
6 | $10,155 |
7 | $10,386 |
8 | $10,617 |
Source Income limits: ND HHS CCAP eligibility. (hhs.nd.gov)
Real program prices snapshot (examples)
Program | When | Typical price |
---|---|---|
BLAST (Bismarck) | School year afterschool | 150/month∗∗,∗∗150/month**, **300 due at registration |
Mandan MAC (school year) | Afterschool to 6:00 pm | 150/month∗∗,∗∗150/month**, **300 deposit |
Bismarck YMCA school‑age | 2025‑26 | AM 191∗∗/∗∗191**/**256; PM 254∗∗/∗∗254**/**320; AM+PM 316∗∗/∗∗316**/**384 (member/non) |
BGCRRV (Fargo) | 2025‑26 | After‑school 19.75/day∗∗;Non‑schoolday∗∗19.75/day**; Non‑school day **41.50/day |
Williston Campus Club | 2025‑26 | Lunch‑status tiers: FREE 100/add’l∗∗,Reduced∗∗100/add’l**, Reduced **150 (75/add’l∗∗),Full∗∗75/add’l**), Full **250 ($125/add’l) |
Sources as linked above: BLAST, Mandan MAC, Missouri Valley YMCA, BGCRRV, Williston Parks. (bisparks.org, mandanparks.com, bismarckymca.org, bgcrrv.org, willistonparks.com)
Food support at a glance
Program | Benefit | How to get it |
---|---|---|
Summer EBT “SUN Bucks” | $120 per child | Auto‑issuance for many; check ND’s Summer EBT page for details and timelines |
Summer Meals sites | Free meals for ages 18 and under | Use the USDA map; sites/hours update weekly |
Afterschool snacks/suppers | Free snack or supper at eligible sites | Ask your program or school nutrition office |
Sources as linked above: ND HHS SUN Bucks and USDA site finder; CACFP/NSLP guidance. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Plan B ideas if waitlists or costs block you
- Ask about partial‑week schedules: Some providers charge per day, not per month—works well around co‑parenting schedules. BGCRRV and many YMCAs offer daily rates. (bgcrrv.org, ymcanorthernsky.org)
- Use district early‑release coverage: ENCORE and similar school programs often cover early‑out days at no cost. (gfschools.org)
- Mix programs: Combine a free school‑based program with a licensed provider for late pickup, then use CCAP to help with the licensed portion. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Stretch food dollars: Even if you missed Summer EBT this year, use summer meal sites for dinner or lunch—no paperwork required at open sites. (fns.usda.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use only official sources from North Dakota Health and Human Services, North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, USDA, and established nonprofits, with links verified and archived at publication. This guide follows our Editorial Standards for research, source verification, and rapid corrections. We are independent researchers, not government employees. Program availability, amounts, and eligibility can change—always confirm with the agency or program. If you see an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours. (nd.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
Disclaimer
Information only: This article is for general guidance. It is not legal advice, and individual eligibility or outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Programs change: Benefit amounts, income limits, and policies can change with little notice. Always verify with official agencies or program staff before you apply or decide.
Security and privacy: When applying online, use secure connections and never share personal information on public Wi‑Fi. Only upload documents through official state portals or verified emails/phone numbers listed on agency websites.
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- 🤝 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