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Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Tennessee

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help at the top

If you need safe care, tutoring, or meals for your child right now, start here.


Quick reference cheat sheet

  • Child care payment help (school-age too): Smart Steps/Certificate Program. Eligibility up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI); co-pay waived at or below 150% FPL. Apply at One DHS. (tn.gov)
  • Typical weekly subsidy rates for school-age care: Centers pay ranges around 79–79–95 (School In/part-time) and 143–143–172 (School Out/full-time) per week before quality bonuses. Exact amounts depend on county tier and provider type. (tn.gov)
  • Free programs at schools: Many districts run free afterschool and summer learning through TDOE’s 21st CCLC and LEAPs grants. Contact your school/district first. State overview and contact email extended.learning@tn.gov: TDOE Extended Learning & Afterschool. (tn.gov, tn-elap.sworpswebapp.sworps.utk.edu)
  • Free summer learning camps & tutoring: District-based four-week camps and TN ALL Corps tutoring (grades 1–8). Ask your district; 2025 guidance posted by TDOE. (tn.gov)
  • Summer EBT reality check: Tennessee issued Summer EBT only in 2024 ($120/child). State agencies state the program ended and no new 2025 benefits were issued; reporting indicates Tennessee opted out for 2025. Use SFSP summer meals instead. (tn.gov, wsj.com)

What this guide covers

  • Who runs afterschool and summer programs in Tennessee: schools, districts, community partners, and licensed child care providers.
  • How to get help paying for before/aftercare and summer camps via TDHS.
  • Free/low-cost options including SFSP summer meals and free tutoring.
  • Exact numbers you can use: current income limits, weekly subsidy rates, phone numbers, and links to apply or find programs.
  • Plan B steps if the first option doesn’t work.

This guide follows the editorial standards at ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. It uses only official/state or well-established nonprofit sources and is reviewed regularly. Last verified August–September 2025. (tn.gov)

Start here: a simple 5-step action plan (today through the next 2 weeks)

  • Call your child’s school first: Ask whether your school has a grant-funded program (21st CCLC or LEAPs) for this year and how to enroll. If they don’t know, call the district office or email extended.learning@tn.gov (TDOE). See the state overview at TDOE Extended Learning & Afterschool. (tn.gov)
  • Apply for child care payment assistance (covers licensed school-age care before/after school and full-day summer): Submit an application at the One DHS portal and upload documents the same day to avoid delays: Apply at One DHS. For help, call 1-833-772-8347. (tn.gov)
  • Use district-run summer learning (free): Each district sets dates and details for four-week literacy/math camps and TN ALL Corps tutoring. Ask your district’s teaching & learning office. 2025 guidance is posted here: TDOE Learning Acceleration (Summer & TN ALL Corps). (tn.gov)
  • Add free supports to your week: Homework Hotline 615-298-6636 or 888-868-5777 (Mon–Thu, 4–8 p.m. CT). It’s one-on-one, multilingual, and free. (homeworkhotline.info)
  • Lock in food during the summer: Find sites near you through the state’s SFSP page; some rural areas allow “Meals-To-Go.” State SFSP help line: 615-313-4749. (tn.gov)

Program map: who offers what in Tennessee

Program type Who runs it Cost to families How to find it
21st Century Community Learning Centers (after school) Local school districts and nonprofits funded by TDOE Usually free Call your school/district; state overview at TDOE Extended Learning & Afterschool; email extended.learning@tn.gov. (tn.gov, tn-elap.sworpswebapp.sworps.utk.edu)
LEAPs (Lottery-funded afterschool) Local programs funded by the state lottery (unclaimed prizes) Usually free Same as above—ask your school and check district sites. (tn.gov)
District summer learning camps (4 weeks) Your school district (literacy/math) Free District site and teaching & learning office; TDOE guidance page. (tn.gov)
Licensed school-age child care (before/after school and summer day camp) Licensed centers/homes; some YMCAs and community centers Fee-based, but TDHS can subsidize Apply at One DHS; find providers on TDHS Child Care Locator. (tn.gov)
Free meals in summer Community/school meal sites via TDHS SFSP (“SUN Meals”) Free TN SFSP site finder; phone 615-313-4749. (tn.gov)
Free homework help Homework Hotline TN Free Call 615-298-6636 or 888-868-5777. (homeworkhotline.info)

TDHS Child Care Payment Assistance for school-age care (before/after school and summer)

The state can help pay for licensed school-age care while you work or attend college.

Who qualifies

  • Eligibility ceiling: Income at or below 85% of Tennessee State Median Income (SMI) based on household size. Co-pays are waived at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). (tn.gov)
  • Work/school requirements: Typically 30 hours/week of work, college, or a combination (Smart Steps); other categories include Families First (TANF), Transitional Child Care, At-Risk Child Only, and Teen Parent. (tn.gov)
  • Covers school-age kids: Payment assistance can be used with licensed school-age programs (before/after school) and for full-day summer care if your provider participates in the Certificate Program. (tn.gov)

Current income limits (effective June 1, 2024; still in effect in 2025 unless superseded by TDHS)

These are monthly amounts. If you are at or below the 150% FPL line, your co-pay is waived. You must be at or below 85% SMI to qualify.

Household size 150% FPL (co-pay waived) 85% of SMI (maximum to qualify)
2 $2,555.00 $4,344.49
3 $3,227.50 $5,366.72
4 $3,900.00 $6,388.95
5 $4,572.50 $7,411.19
6 $5,245.00 $8,433.42
7 $5,917.50 $8,625.09
8 $6,590.00 $8,816.76

Source: TDHS Income Eligibility & Parent Co-Pay Chart (June 1, 2024). (tn.gov)

What TDHS pays vs. what you might owe

TDHS pays providers up to a weekly “state rate.” If the provider’s private tuition is higher, you may owe the difference (overage) plus any co-pay. Quality bonuses and differentials can increase state payments in some cases. (tn.gov)

Weekly reimbursement rates for school‑age children (effective Oct 1, 2024)

Provider type County tier School In (part-time) School Out (full-time/summer)
Licensed Child Care Center Top Tier counties $79.00 $143.00
Licensed Child Care Center Lower Tier counties $75.00 $110.00
Group Home Top Tier counties $101.00 $135.00
Group Home Lower Tier counties $75.00 $100.00
Family Home Top Tier counties $119.00 $125.00
Family Home Lower Tier counties $79.00 $120.00
  • Quality bonuses: +15% (QRIS score 80–89) or +20% (QRIS 90–100) for TDHS-licensed providers.
  • Additional differentials: +15% for children with disabilities; +15% for non‑traditional hours; +15% for infants/toddlers (not school-age, but useful if you have younger kids).
  • County tiers: Top Tier includes large/ higher-income counties (e.g., Davidson, Shelby, Knox, Hamilton, Williamson, etc.).

Source: TDHS Provider Weekly Reimbursement Rate Chart, effective 10/1/2024. (tn.gov)

How to apply

Required documents (TDHS will request these if not uploaded):

  • Photo ID; proof of Tennessee address; child’s citizenship/identity (e.g., birth certificate); income proof (last 8 weeks of pay stubs, employer letter, or latest 1040 for self‑employed); school schedule if in college; child support orders if applicable. Full list in TDHS guidance. (tn.gov)

Timeline expectations: TDHS does not publish a set processing timeframe for child care assistance. Submitting a complete application with all verifications and selecting a provider that participates in the Certificate Program generally speeds up decisions. You can track case status and upload documents in One DHS or call 1-833-772-8347 to check your case. (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case stalls, contact the One DHS Contact Center, ask whether any documents are missing, and request help from your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) office via the statewide referral line 1-866-296-3422 or visit TN CCR&R. (tn.gov)

Free school-based options: 21st CCLC and LEAPs

Tennessee funds two statewide afterschool programs through the Department of Education:

  • 21st CCLC (federal) and LEAPs (state lottery/unclaimed prizes) support free, academic‑focused afterschool at many schools and partner sites. Programs typically offer reading and math support, tutoring, STEM, arts, recreation, and family engagement; LEAPs aims for an average of 15 hours/week of services. (tn.gov)

How to find one near you

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your school doesn’t have a grant-funded site, ask the principal about partner-led options (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, parks & rec) and whether transportation is available. Use 211 to identify nearby programs and scholarships. (uwtn.org)

Summer learning and tutoring (district-led)

  • TN ALL Corps tutoring: Small‑group reading and math tutoring (grades 1–8), typically 30–45 minutes, 2–3 times/week during the semester. Contact your district to enroll. (tn.gov)
  • Four‑week summer learning camps: Districts provide four weeks of literacy and math with small groups and individualized support. Dates, transportation, and schedules vary by district each year; 2025 guidance was posted by TDOE in January–March 2025. Start with your district and see Learning Acceleration (Summer Camps & Guidance). (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your district’s camp is full or not offered, ask about waitlists, partner‑led summer programs (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs), and use TDHS payment assistance for licensed full‑day summer care. (tn.gov)

Food during summer: what’s available in 2025

  • SFSP (SUN Meals): The state partners with sponsors to offer free meals for kids 18 and under at schools, parks, libraries, and community sites. In some rural areas, Meals-To-Go pickup is allowed. Find sites and details here; state SFSP line 615-313-4749. (tn.gov)
  • Summer EBT status in Tennessee: In 2024, Tennessee issued $120 per child in Summer EBT. The state’s DHS page notes the program ended and appeals closed in November 2024. Reporting in 2025 indicates Tennessee did not continue Summer EBT in 2025. Keep your 2024 card in case of future changes, but plan for SFSP meal sites for 2025. (tn.gov, wsj.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach an SFSP site, call 211 to ask about food box deliveries, pantries, and other local options. (uwtn.org)

Free tutoring you can use weekly

  • Homework Hotline: Call 615-298-6636 or 888-868-5777 Mon–Thu, 4–8 p.m. CT for free one‑on‑one help in multiple languages (K–12). Memphis-Shelby County Schools students can also call 901-416-1234. See details: Homework Hotline TN. (homeworkhotline.info)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school about TN ALL Corps tutoring and check Boys & Girls Clubs academic time in their afterschool programs. (tn.gov, bgcmt.org)

Finding programs near you: trusted tools

Local snapshots (contacts you can use)

  • Memphis & Shelby County:
    • District summer learning: Registration for 2025 Summer Learning Academy opened March 31; runs June 2–30 (dates vary by program). Info at MSCS Summer sites. District main line 901-416-5300. (scsk12.org)
    • Afterschool (ELOP): Free at selected sites via 21st CCLC/LEAPs; also fee‑based partner programs (YMCA). See MSCS ELOP page; questions line listed on site. (scsk12.org)
    • Homework help: 901-416-1234 (MSCS program) and statewide numbers above. (homeworkhotline.info)
  • Nashville & Davidson County:
  • Knoxville & Knox County:
    • Aftercare options: Many elementary sites partner with Boys & Girls Clubs or SHADES of Development (independent providers). See the district preschool pages listing aftercare partners. (help.knoxschools.org)
  • Chattanooga & Hamilton County:
    • SACC (School‑Age Child Care): District‑run before/aftercare and summer; office 423-893-3530. (hcde.org)

Real costs and how to lower them

  • Boys & Girls Clubs: Annual fees often 10–10–25; many Clubs offer transportation from schools and scholarships. Examples: BGCM (Memphis) – 10/year∗∗;[BGCMT(Nashvillearea)](https://bgcmt.org/become−a−member/)–∗∗10/year**; [BGCMT (Nashville area)](https://bgcmt.org/become-a-member/) – **25/year. (bgcm.org, bgcmt.org)
  • YMCA programs: Fees vary by branch and program; ask about “Open Doors” sliding‑scale assistance and whether the site accepts TDHS payments. Contact YMCA of Middle Tennessee member services 615-742-7332 and see Open Doors financial assistance. (ymcamidtn.org)
  • Use TDHS subsidies: Pair a licensed provider with TDHS payment assistance (see rates and income table above). Use the Child Care Locator filter for “Accepts Child Care Assistance.” (tn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If costs still exceed what you can pay, ask providers about scholarships, sliding scales, sibling discounts, and whether your child’s program is a 21st CCLC/LEAPs site (often free). Call 211 for other local options. (uwtn.org)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and contacts

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask programs about inclusive policies, anti‑bullying measures, and staff training. Label to ask at enrollment: Non‑discrimination policy; privacy practices for chosen names/pronouns; bathroom/locker room policy; bullying reporting.
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Family Support Program may fund respite, before/after care, equipment, or camp costs (up to $6,000/year, subject to local council resources). Contact regional coordinators (East 423-787-6953, Middle 615-231-5057, West 901-745-7235). See TN Disability & Aging: Family Support Program. (tn.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Ask Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs about military fee waivers or discounts. Many Clubs participate in DoD/Guard/Reserve vouchers; confirm at your local Club.
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can enroll kids in most public programs regardless of a parent’s immigration status. Label to use when calling: Language interpretation needed. Many districts and Homework Hotline provide multilingual help. Homework Hotline is free and offers multiple languages. (homeworkhotline.info)
  • Tribal citizens: While Tennessee lacks in‑state federally recognized tribes, Native families can ask districts about Title VI Indian Education supports and Johnson‑O’Malley services (where applicable). Ask your school counselor how to connect.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Look for SUN Meals-To-Go, virtual tutoring (Homework Hotline), and licensed family child care homes on TDHS’s map. Ask about mileage‑based transportation supports in district summer programs. (tn.gov)
  • Single fathers: Most programs are open to all parents/guardians. The same TDHS subsidies and free programs apply.
  • Language access: When calling district offices or TDHS, say “Interpreter please” and your language. TDHS and districts provide language services at no cost. See One DHS contact options. (tn.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Starting TDHS application without uploads: Incomplete applications don’t move. Upload pay stubs, proof of address, and provider choice right away (use One DHS). (tn.gov)
  • Choosing a provider that doesn’t take TDHS: Use the “Accepts Child Care Assistance Program” filter in the Child Care Locator before enrolling. (tn.gov)
  • Waiting to ask about transportation: For school-based programs, ask up front about bus routes or van pick‑ups; spots go fast.
  • Missing free options: Not checking with your school/district for 21st CCLC/LEAPs or district summer camps can leave money on the table. (tn.gov)

Application checklist (print or save)

  • One DHS account: Email and password ready. (tn.gov)
  • Proof of identity and address: Driver’s license/State ID and lease/mortgage or utility bill. (tn.gov)
  • Child documents: Birth certificate or passport.
  • Income: Last 8 weeks of pay stubs or employer letter; last 1040 for self‑employed. (tn.gov)
  • Work/school schedule: Class schedule if in college; employer hours.
  • Provider info: Name/license number; confirm they accept TDHS.
  • Back‑up plan: 21st CCLC/LEAPs at your school, Boys & Girls Clubs membership form, and Homework Hotline numbers. (tn.gov, bgcmt.org, homeworkhotline.info)

Realistic timelines

  • School/district afterschool: Many sites fill in the first 2–3 weeks of school; mid‑year openings can pop up when funding expands—keep checking. (nashvillez.org)
  • District summer learning: Registration often opens in March–April (example: Memphis 2025 opened March 31; camp ran June 2–30). Watch your district messages in February–April. (scsk12.org)
  • TDHS payment assistance: No official set timeline; depending on volume, cases can take several weeks once all documents are in. Upload immediately and check your One DHS dashboard weekly; call 1-833-772-8347 if it’s been a while. (tn.gov)

FAQs (Tennessee-specific)

  • Is there free afterschool at my child’s school: Ask about 21st CCLC or LEAPs; many sites are free and include tutoring. If unavailable, ask the principal about partner programs (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs) or see NAZA (Nashville), SACC (Hamilton), and club options listed here. (tn.gov, nashvillez.org, hcde.org)
  • Can TDHS help pay for summer day camp: Yes, if the camp is a licensed program enrolled in the Certificate Program. Use the Child Care Locator and filter for programs that accept TDHS. (tn.gov)
  • How much will I owe with TDHS help: If you’re at or below 150% FPL, the co‑pay is $0. Otherwise, co‑pay is roughly 5% of monthly income, divided among children in care; you may also owe any difference if the provider’s rate is above the state rate. (tn.gov)
  • What are the state rates for school‑age care: For licensed centers, School In 75–75–79/week and School Out 110–110–143/week before quality bonuses; exact rates vary by county tier. (tn.gov)
  • Do Boys & Girls Clubs cost money: Many Tennessee Clubs charge 10–10–25/year and offer scholarships; check your local Club for transportation and site hours. (bgcm.org, bgcmt.org)
  • Is Summer EBT available in 2025: Tennessee issued Summer EBT in 2024 only ($120/child). Official pages show the 2024 program ended. News reporting in 2025 indicates the state did not continue in 2025. Use SFSP for meals. (tn.gov, wsj.com)
  • Where can I get live homework help: Call Homework Hotline 615-298-6636 or 888-868-5777, Mon–Thu 4–8 p.m. CT (multilingual). Memphis students: 901-416-1234. (homeworkhotline.info)
  • My teen needs a safe place until 6 p.m.: Ask about 21st CCLC/LEAPs at your high school, Boys & Girls Club teen programs, and YMCA teen centers; confirm pickup times and transportation. (bgcmt.org)
  • I don’t have a car: Look for programs that provide buses/vans (many district and NAZA sites do). For summer meals in rural areas, check if SUN Meals-To-Go is offered. (nashvillez.org, tn.gov)
  • Who can help me find licensed care and explain quality ratings: Call CCR&R at 1-866-296-3422 or use TDHS’s Child Care Locator and QRIS Scorecard. (tn.gov)

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Waitlists happen: Free school-based seats are limited. Ask to be waitlisted and to be called if funding expands midyear.
  • Overage surprises: Even with TDHS help, you may owe the difference between the state rate and a provider’s price. Get the overage in writing before your child’s first day. (tn.gov)
  • Transportation: Not all afterschool programs offer buses. Ask early so you’re not stuck at pickup time.
  • Documentation: TDHS won’t process incomplete applications—upload everything the same day if possible. (tn.gov)

If the first plan doesn’t work (Plan B options)

  • No school-based slot: Join the waitlist, enroll in Boys & Girls Clubs right away (often open seats), and apply for TDHS help to use a licensed program. (bgcmt.org)
  • TDHS application delays: Use Homework Hotline and free district offerings to cover learning needs while you wait; ask your provider for a temporary payment plan.
  • No nearby summer meal site: Ask 211 about mobile meal routes, pantries, and faith‑based programs; check if “SUN Meals-To-Go” is available in your county. (tn.gov, uwtn.org)

Short list of verified contacts

Tables you can use at a glance

TDHS child care help: income and co‑pay policy (monthly limits)

Household size 150% FPL (co‑pay waived) 85% SMI (upper limit)
2 $2,555.00 $4,344.49
3 $3,227.50 $5,366.72
4 $3,900.00 $6,388.95
5 $4,572.50 $7,411.19
6 $5,245.00 $8,433.42
7 $5,917.50 $8,625.09
8 $6,590.00 $8,816.76

Source: TDHS Income Eligibility & Parent Co‑Pay Chart (effective June 1, 2024). (tn.gov)

School‑age weekly state rates (selected) before bonuses

Provider type County tier School In (part‑time) School Out (full‑time)
Licensed Center Top Tier $79.00 $143.00
Licensed Center Lower Tier $75.00 $110.00

Additions: +15% QRIS 80–89; +20% QRIS 90–100; +15% disability differential; +15% non‑traditional hours. Source: TDHS rate chart effective Oct 1, 2024. (tn.gov)

Free school/district options (how to enroll quickly)

Area What to ask for First contact Notes
Statewide 21st CCLC / LEAPs School front office Many sites free; ask about waitlists. (tn.gov)
Statewide TN ALL Corps tutoring School counselor Small‑group tutoring in grades 1–8. (tn.gov)
Statewide Summer learning camps District teaching & learning Four weeks; dates vary by district annually. (tn.gov)

Regional quick hits

Region Resource How to use
Memphis/Shelby MSCS Summer Learning Academy; ELOP Registration opens spring; call 901-416-5300; ELOP sites often free. (scsk12.org, scsk12.org)
Nashville/Davidson NAZA OST Locator Free middle‑grade programs; use map to enroll. (nashvillez.org)
Chattanooga/Hamilton SACC Call 423-893-3530 for before/aftercare and summer. (hcde.org)
Knoxville/Knox BGC/SHADES partners Check school pages for partner lists and contacts. (help.knoxschools.org)

Content gaps we fixed (based on top search results)

Many search results list general afterschool ideas without concrete numbers or direct enrollment steps. This guide includes:

  • Exact TDHS income thresholds and weekly subsidy rates for school‑age care. (tn.gov)
  • Direct links to applications, district pages, and phone numbers you can call today.
  • 2025 status of Summer EBT in Tennessee (and alternatives). (tn.gov, wsj.com)
  • Realistic timelines, waitlist tips, and Plan B options with verified contacts.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Tennessee Department of Human Services, Tennessee Department of Education, USDA, and established nonprofits.

Methodology: Primary sources only; links tested; key pages archived; figures matched to state documents and most recent guidance. See our Editorial Standards. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 48–72 hours. (tn.gov)

Disclaimer and site safety

  • Program details change: Eligibility, rates, and schedules can change. Always confirm with the agency or provider before you enroll or pay. We link to official pages so you can verify amounts and deadlines.
  • Legal and case‑specific limits: We provide general guidance, not legal advice or decisions on your specific case.
  • Privacy and security: Protect your information when applying online. Use secure connections, strong passwords, and official state portals like One DHS. Report suspicious links or texts to the agency’s published phone numbers (e.g., 1-833-772-8347 for One DHS). (tn.gov)

What to do next (in 10 minutes)

  • Call your school and ask about 21st CCLC or LEAPs enrollment.
  • Start a One DHS application and upload your documents.
  • Save these numbers: 1-833-772-8347 (One DHS), 211, 615-298-6636 / 888-868-5777 (Homework Hotline), 615-313-4749 (SFSP). (tn.gov, uwtn.org, homeworkhotline.info)

You’ve got more options than it may feel like right now. Use the free choices first, apply for payment help, and keep a backup plan ready. If you hit a wall, dial 211 and hand the research to a trained specialist who can connect you quickly. (uwtn.org)

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