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Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last updated: September 2025

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Why this guide is different

What you’ll get here: Verified South Dakota‑specific options you can use right away, with current income limits, typical costs, direct phones, and realistic next steps. We include statewide school‑based options, summer meals, transit, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, tribal child care contacts, and what to do if your first choice is full.


Content gaps we close: Many search results skip exact dollar amounts, don’t list local phone numbers, or ignore rural/tribal access and transportation. This guide links directly to official agencies and major providers and gives a Plan B at the end of each section. See citations under each section to verify details.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

What you need First step Typical cost to you Where to apply or call
Licensed afterschool or summer care with financial help Apply for South Dakota Child Care Assistance Based on income/copay Apply online or get the application or call 800-227-3020. (dss.sd.gov)
Free school‑based afterschool enrichment Check 21st Century Community Learning Centers at your child’s school Usually free to families targeted by the program See SD 21st CCLC info and current grantee list. (doe.sd.gov)
Sioux Falls school‑site care Enroll in Community Learning Centers Elementary: varies by package; Middle school: $30/week or free if on FRPL CLC program overview and middle school rates or call 605-367-4424. (sf.k12.sd.us)
Rapid City afterschool YMCA KidStop Varies by site; $50 registration fee YMCA childcare details or call 605-718-9622. (rcymca.org)
Free meals after school Ask if your program offers CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool meals Free to kids; program handles paperwork Call SD DOE Child & Adult Nutrition Services 605-773-3413 or see USDA overview. State CACFP page and USDA fact sheet. (doe.sd.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Free summer meals near you Use USDA Summer Meals Site Finder Free Find summer meal sites. (fns.usda.gov)
Find licensed child care right now Search SD DSS provider portal Free search Search licensed/registered child care. (apps.sd.gov)

Start here: Get help paying for afterschool or summer care through South Dakota Child Care Assistance

Most important action

Apply today: If you’re working or in school, you may qualify for help with afterschool and summer child care costs for kids up to age 12 (or older with certain needs). Apply online, print/mail an application, or call 800-227-3020 for help. How to apply for Child Care Assistance. (dss.sd.gov)

Who qualifies and 2025 income limits

South Dakota uses a sliding‑fee scale set at 209% of the Federal Poverty Level, effective March 1, 2025. If your countable monthly income is at or below the amounts below, you may qualify. DSS eligibility page and sliding‑fee table. (dss.sd.gov)

2025 Sliding‑Fee Thresholds for Initial Eligibility

Family size Max monthly income (209% FPL)
2 $3,685
3 $4,642
4 $5,599
5 $6,558
6 $7,516
7 $8,473

Source DSS: Am I Eligible. (dss.sd.gov)

How much help you can get

  • What the program pays: The state pays your provider up to the program’s allowed rate, and you pay a co‑pay based on your sliding‑fee tier. DSS confirms rates and co‑pays in your approval. DSS explains sliding fee/copay structure. (dss.sd.gov)
  • Reimbursement level reality check: State law and policy currently reimburse up to roughly the 75th percentile of market rates statewide; proposals to raise this to the 90th percentile did not pass in 2025. This affects how much of your provider’s price is covered and your out‑of‑pocket share. (southdakotasearchlight.com)

Documents to gather

  • Proof of identity: Photo ID for you.
  • Proof of South Dakota residency: Lease, utility bill, or letter with your address.
  • Proof of income: Recent pay stubs or employer letter; proof of school enrollment/schedule if you’re a student.
  • Child details: Birth certificate or other proof of relationship; if applicable, disability‑related documentation for specialized care.
  • Provider information: Name, address, and license/registration or relative/in‑home details per DSS rules.

Check the DSS forms page and the CCS‑950 application for specifics. DSS Child Care Assistance application and forms and Forms & Publications. (dss.sd.gov)

How to find a provider who accepts assistance

Licensing and safety basics

South Dakota rules require at least a 15:1 ratio for children ages five and older in center and school‑age programs, and assistants must be 14+ and supervised. Mixed‑age groups have separate standards; check your site’s license. You can verify inspection results on the DSS portal. [South Dakota Admin. Rule 67:42:17:19, :20, :10 summaries] and DSS inspection and licensing info. (law.cornell.edu, dss.sd.gov)

Timeline expectations

  • Apply as soon as you have a job offer or class schedule: DSS determines your co‑pay and authorizes a start date after your paperwork is complete. Processing times vary; respond quickly if DSS asks for verification and call 800-227-3020 if you have a start date approaching. DSS application steps. (dss.sd.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using a provider who isn’t eligible: Your provider must be licensed/registered, an eligible relative, or an approved in‑home provider per DSS rules. Verify before care starts. DSS provider rules. (dss.sd.gov)
  • Not reporting schedule or income changes: Changes can affect your co‑pay and authorization.
  • Missing signatures on the provider’s rate form: Ask your provider to submit DSS rate forms promptly.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask about a temporary plan: Some Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and school‑site programs can start your child while your application is pending.
  • Call 211 for stopgaps: They can route you to short‑term care or scholarship programs in your county. Helpline Center. (helplinecenter.org)

School‑based Afterschool Enrichment that’s low‑cost or free

Most important action

Check 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) at your child’s school. These federally funded programs in high‑need schools offer homework help, tutoring, enrichment, and a safe place until early evening, and many also run summer learning. See the state grantee list and contact your school office. SD DOE 21st CCLC overview and current grantees. (doe.sd.gov)

  • Cost and fees: Federal guidance strongly discourages charging families; in practice, SD programs serve low‑income schools and are generally free, with any fees requiring prior approval and sliding‑scale waivers. Ask your site coordinator. (afterschoolalliance.org)

Sioux Falls Community Learning Centers

  • Middle school: 30/week∗∗forBenReifelandWhittier,withfeewaivedforfamiliesonfree/reduced‑pricemeals;GeorgeMcGovernMiddleSchooliscompletelyfreeduetogrants.One‑time∗∗30/week** for Ben Reifel and Whittier, with fee waived for families on free/reduced‑price meals; George McGovern Middle School is completely free due to grants. One‑time **20 processing fee per child; assistance available. Enrollment line 605-367-4424. CLC middle school program and rates. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Elementary and summer: Licensed care at elementary schools with extended‑day and summer options. Rates vary by package, scholarships available. CLC programs overview. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Notable deadlines: CLCs publish cancellation/enrollment deadlines each year. Always check the current school‑year calendar before enrolling to avoid fees if plans change. (secure.smore.com)

Rapid City and the Black Hills

Other communities and nonprofit partners

Table—School‑linked options at a glance

City/Area Provider Typical family cost How to enroll
Sioux Falls (middle school) Community Learning Centers 30/week∗∗orfreeforFRPL;∗∗30/week** or free for FRPL; **20 one‑time fee CLC middle school programs or call 605-367-4424. (sf.k12.sd.us)
Rapid City YMCA KidStop Varies; $50 registration YMCA childcare or call 605-718-9622. (rcymca.org)
Aberdeen, Watertown, Pierre, Vermillion, Yankton, Rosebud, Black Hills Boys & Girls Clubs (many are 21st CCLC partners) Often free/low cost; scholarships widely available See your school office or the 21st CCLC grantee list and SD Afterschool Network map. (doe.sd.gov, sdafterschoolnetwork.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Assuming your school has no afterschool option: Check the 21st CCLC grantee list and your district site—new sites open each year. (doe.sd.gov)
  • Missing financial help: If your school program charges a fee, ask about scholarships, DSS Child Care Assistance, or whether the program can accept CCAP payments.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call 211 to identify nearby nonprofit sites (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, churches with licensed care) and to check for scholarship funds. Helpline Center. (helplinecenter.org)

Free meals after school and during summer

Most important action

Find a free meal site: Any child 18 and under can eat free at USDA summer meal sites; many afterschool programs also serve free snacks/suppers under CACFP. USDA Summer Meals Site Finder and SD DOE CANS 605-773-3413. (fns.usda.gov, doe.sd.gov)

After‑school meals and snacks

Summer food

  • 2025 SFSP reimbursement rates for sponsors in SD were set by USDA and adopted by SD DOE, effective Jan 1–Dec 31, 2025. Families don’t need to know the rate to access meals, but it keeps sites running. SFSP 2025 rates PDF—SD DOE. (doe.sd.gov)
  • Summer EBT/SUN Bucks: In 2025, the federal benefit remains $40/month per child in the 48 states; however, South Dakota did not opt to operate SUN Bucks in 2025. Families can still use open summer meal sites statewide. [USDA 2025 Summer EBT benefit notice] and [FRAC summary of 2025 state participation]. (fns.usda.gov, frac.org)

2025–26 school meal income guidelines

If your household meets the income guidelines below, your child likely qualifies for free/reduced price school meals during the school year, which can also waive some program fees. SD DOE 2025–26 Income Eligibility Guidelines PDF. (doe.sd.gov)

  • Example for a family of four: Free at 3,483/month∗∗orless;Reducedat∗∗3,483/month** or less; Reduced at **4,957/month or less. See the full chart via SD DOE. (doe.sd.gov)

Table—Free meal options and how to use them

Program Who it helps What to do
CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Kids at eligible afterschool sites Ask your site if they participate; if not, share SD DOE CANS number 605-773-3413. (doe.sd.gov)
Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) Any child 18 and under Use the USDA finder, check hours/dates, and go—no application. (fns.usda.gov)
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) School‑age kids in participating states Not in SD in 2025; use SFSP and community sites instead. (frac.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

What to do if this doesn’t work

Transportation help that makes afterschool possible

Rural distance and winter roads can make pickup hard. South Dakota DOT lists public transit providers in every region that offer scheduled or on‑demand rides, often with discounted child fares.

Table—Key public transit numbers

Area Provider Phone
Sioux Falls Sioux Area Metro 605-367-7151
Rapid City Rapid Transit System 605-394-6631
Black Hills counties Prairie Hills Transit 605-642-6613
Pierre and central counties River Cities Public Transit 605-945-3166
Brookings region Brookings Area Transit 605-692-5416
Aberdeen/Brown/NE SD Aberdeen Ride Line / Community Transit 605-626-3333 / 605-882-5287
Vermillion area Vermillion Public Transit 605-624-7433
Yankton Yankton Transit 605-668-4610

Source SDDOT: Rural and Urban Transit Providers list. (dot.sd.gov)

Tip: Ask your afterschool program whether they coordinate pickups with transit or school buses—several Boys & Girls Club and CLC sites do localized transport. If not, ask about neighbor carpool permission forms.

A few proven, statewide places to look

  • DSS Provider Search and Licensing: Verify a program’s license and inspection history, and file complaints if necessary. DSS Provider Portal. (apps.sd.gov)
  • South Dakota Afterschool Network: Mapping tool and statewide resources for afterschool and summer learning; unmet demand is high—about 42,000 SD kids would enroll if a program were available. SDAN site and America After 3PM SD data. (sdafterschoolnetwork.org)
  • Child & Adult Nutrition Services (CANS): One‑stop for school, afterschool, and summer meal program support. Phone 605-773-3413. CANS homepage. (doe.sd.gov)
  • 211: Real people who will text or email you program lists with openings, hours, scholarship info, and ride options in your county. Call 211 or text your ZIP to 898211. SD DOH page on 211/988. (doh.sd.gov)

Diverse Communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask programs directly about inclusion policies and bathrooms/pronoun practices, and request accommodations in writing if needed. Call 211 to identify inclusive sites, and ask your school’s 21st CCLC coordinator about safe‑space clubs within afterschool. SDAN statewide map and resources. (sdafterschoolnetwork.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Afterschool sites receiving federal funds must provide reasonable accommodations under Section 504/ADA. Ask your site for the meal modification form if your child needs special diets; SD DOE CANS can help programs with this process. CANS resources and translated letters. Phone: 605-773-3413. (doe.sd.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: You can use federal VA benefits alongside DSS Child Care Assistance. 211 can connect you to local Vet Centers and family supports in your county. Phone: 211. 211 statewide access notes. (doh.sd.gov)
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: DSS and DOE pages include translated documents; interpreter help is available. When you call agencies, request an interpreter and repeat back key details. DSS page showing language options. (dss.sd.gov)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: Tribal Child Care & Development Fund programs operate separately from the state and may help with afterschool/summer care on or near reservations. Key tribal CCDF contacts include Cheyenne River (605-964-7151), Oglala Sioux/Pine Ridge (605-867-5172), Rosebud (605-747-5264), Sisseton‑Wahpeton Oyate (605-698-8324), Lower Brule (605-473-0625), Yankton (605-384-3641), Crow Creek (605-245-2129), and Flandreau Santee Sioux (605-997-2311). ACF list of Tribal CCDF contacts by state. (acf.gov)
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Ask about SUN Meals To‑Go options in rural areas each summer and leverage county transit plus 4‑H clubs for low‑cost enrichment. USDA SUN Meals info and SDSU Extension 4‑H. (fns.usda.gov, extension.sdstate.edu)
  • Single fathers: Every program in this guide serves you too; eligibility is based on household, not gender. Use the same steps.
  • Language access: When emailing or applying online, include “Interpreter needed—[language]” in the subject line and state your phone number with best times to call back.

Local resources and examples

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire (Sioux Falls/Brandon/Harrisburg): K‑5 afterschool and summer programs, scholarships available; teen programs are free and include supper. Main number 605-338-8061. Club site and teen program info. (bgcsiouxempire.org)
  • YMCA of Rapid City: Afterschool KidStop at multiple schools, summer day camps; $50 registration fee for school‑age programs; call 605-718-9622. YMCA childcare. (rcymca.org)
  • Sioux Falls Community Learning Centers: Elementary and middle school programs; middle school fee $30/week or waived for FRPL; enrollment 605-367-4424. CLC middle school program and rates. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • SDSU Extension 4‑H: Local clubs and summer activities with low or no fees in every county—great for rural kids. South Dakota 4‑H. (extension.sdstate.edu)

What it really costs and how to reduce your out‑of‑pocket

  • Use DSS assistance first: If approved, your provider bills DSS up to the allowed rate and you pay the co‑pay. DSS application info. (dss.sd.gov)
  • Layer program scholarships: 21st CCLC is typically free; CLC/BGC/YMCA sites often waive or reduce fees for low‑income families—ask for the scholarship form when you enroll. (doe.sd.gov, sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Use federal tax breaks: Keep receipts for afterschool and day camps so you can claim the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit—up to 3,000∗∗ofexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** of expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more, at 20–35% of eligible costs depending on income—and/or pay through a Dependent Care FSA if your employer offers it, up to $5,000 per household. See IRS Publication 503 for details. IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)

For program operators and advanced options

If your school or community is building or expanding an afterschool site:

  • 21st CCLC grant cycle: South Dakota’s 21st CCLC grants run multi‑year cycles; notices of intent for the 2025–2030 cycle were due January 13, 2025. Watch DOE for future windows. SD DOE 21st CCLC page. (doe.sd.gov)
  • At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP): Sites can add free suppers/snacks; contact CANS at 605-773-3413. SD DOE CACFP. (doe.sd.gov)

Application Checklist

  • Proof of identity and residency: ID, lease or recent bill.
  • Income verification: Recent pay stubs, employer letter, or school schedule if you’re a student.
  • Child documents: Birth certificate or custody/guardianship paperwork.
  • Provider details: Name, address, license/registration, hours, rate sheet.
  • Schedule: Your work/class schedule and the hours you need coverage.
  • Transportation plan: Which adult or transit will pick up if you can’t.
  • Back‑up contact: A second adult authorized to pick up your child.
  • Receipts: Keep all payment receipts for tax credit and FSA purposes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply: You can apply as soon as you have a job offer or class schedule; DSS can authorize from your start date. (dss.sd.gov)
  • Assuming school‑site care is full: Waitlists move fast in August/September. Check back weekly and ask about partial‑week schedules. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Not asking about fee waivers: Many programs waive fees for families on free/reduced‑price meals or with proof of hardship. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Skipping transportation planning: Lock in transit or carpool early; call your county transit provider to set up recurring rides. SDDOT transit list. (dot.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Use the SD Afterschool Network map to find nearby programs you may have missed, including churches and libraries offering licensed care or enrichment. SDAN map. (sdafterschoolnetwork.org)
  • Ask your school counselor about late buses, homework clubs, or teacher‑led enrichment you can combine with a shorter window of paid care.
  • Call 211 and ask for a “warm transfer” to a child care specialist who can stay on the line while you contact providers to confirm openings. Helpline Center. (helplinecenter.org)

FAQs for South Dakota single parents

  1. Are 21st CCLC school programs free: Most are free because they target Title I/high‑need schools; if a site charges, they must offer sliding‑scale aid and cannot bar families who can’t pay. Ask the site coordinator. USDOE/21st CCLC guidance summary. (afterschoolalliance.org)
  2. What are the 2025 income limits for Child Care Assistance: For example, a family of three can qualify up to 4,642/month∗∗;familyoffourupto∗∗4,642/month**; family of four up to **5,599/month. See the full March 2025 chart. DSS eligibility. (dss.sd.gov)
  3. How soon should I apply if I start a new job: Immediately. DSS authorizes from your confirmed start date once paperwork is in. DSS application steps. (dss.sd.gov)
  4. Can I use my Dependent Care FSA for afterschool: Yes, up to $5,000 per household per year if your employer offers it, but coordinate with the Child and Dependent Care Credit. IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)
  5. Are there free meals after school: Many sites serve free snacks or suppers under CACFP At‑Risk; ask your program. SD DOE CACFP. (doe.sd.gov)
  6. Will South Dakota provide Summer EBT/SUN Bucks in 2025: No; SD did not opt in for 2025. Use summer meal sites instead. FRAC 2025 participation summary. (frac.org)
  7. Is there afterschool at my middle school in Sioux Falls: Yes at George McGovern (free), Ben Reifel (30/week∗∗),andWhittier(∗∗30/week**), and Whittier (**30/week), with waivers for FRPL. CLC middle school program. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  8. What are the staff‑to‑child ratios for school‑age care: South Dakota requires 15:1 for children age five and over in center/school‑age settings; mixed‑age rules apply for groups under 20. [ARSD 67:42:17:19 & :20 summaries]. (law.cornell.edu)
  9. Where do I check a provider’s license and inspections: Use the DSS Constituent Portal to search by city or program name. DSS provider search. (apps.sd.gov)
  10. If my first choice is full, who can help: Call 211 to reach a child care specialist who can locate alternatives and transportation options in your county. Helpline Center. (helplinecenter.org)

Reality checks, tips, and timelines

  • Expect waitlists in August/September: Re‑check weekly; spots open as families shift sports and schedules. Ask about partial‑week enrollment.
  • Save every receipt: You’ll need them for the Child and Dependent Care Credit and any employer FSA claims. IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)
  • Ask about meals: Programs that participate in CACFP or SFSP relieve your grocery budget and ensure your child eats before pickup. CANS and USDA resources and USDA site finder. (doe.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
  • Know the policy landscape: In 2025, proposals to expand assistance for child care workers and increase reimbursement rates were vetoed or stalled, so affordability remains tight. Plan early and layer supports. (southdakotasearchlight.com)

Regional ride‑alongs and schedules

  • Sioux Falls: CLCs run to 6:00 p.m. on school days; some sites coordinate with Boys & Girls Club for extended hours to 8:00 p.m. including supper. Ask at enrollment. CLC middle school info. (sf.k12.sd.us)
  • Rapid City: YMCA KidStop generally runs to early evening on school days with full‑day options on no‑school days; confirm hours and holiday schedules when you register. YMCA childcare. (rcymca.org)
  • Rural counties: Use SDDOT providers to schedule door‑to‑door rides to afterschool sites or summer programs. Book recurring trips early. SDDOT transit provider list. (dot.sd.gov)

About program quality and safety

  • Check ratios and training: SD rules set ratios (15:1 for kids five and up). Assistants must be 14+ and supervised; programs must keep kids within sight or hearing and be able to intervene. [ARSD 67:42:17:10, :18–:20 summaries]. (law.cornell.edu)
  • Verify license and inspection results: Use the DSS search to read inspection notes before you enroll. DSS provider search. (apps.sd.gov)

Quick numbers you’ll likely need

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from the South Dakota Department of Social Services, South Dakota Department of Education Child & Adult Nutrition Services, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, the South Dakota Afterschool Network, and established nonprofits including Boys & Girls Clubs and the YMCA.

How we verify: We rely on primary sources (.gov pages and official program materials), test links at publication, archive sources, and track policy changes. See our Editorial Standards.

Maintenance: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Email info@asinglemother.org with corrections—we respond within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: Program details, rates, and eligibility can change. Always verify with the agency or program before you apply or make payments.

Health and safety: For medical or mental health emergencies, call 911 or 988. We provide links to official public sites; keep your device security updated and avoid entering personal information on non‑official sites.

Sources and key references used in this guide

Note for moms planning ahead: Policy proposals to expand assistance and raise reimbursement rates were debated in 2025 but did not advance, which means program prices and co‑pays will continue to feel tight this school year—apply early, compare options, and layer DSS aid with school‑based and nonprofit scholarships wherever possible. (southdakotasearchlight.com)

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