Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
Virginia has more options than most people realize for safe, affordable care after school and during summer. This guide cuts through the noise with exact costs, income rules, deadlines, phone numbers, and where to apply — all verified with official sources.
Emergency help now
If you need coverage this week or you’re at risk of losing work because of child care gaps, start here.
- Call: 2-1-1 for live help finding an open afterschool or summer slot near you, including programs with fee reductions. You can also text CONNECT to 247211 or chat on the website. 2‑1‑1 Virginia main site. (211virginia.org)
- Check free meal sites: Many sites are open evenings and summers with enrichment. Use USDA’s map to find nearby “SUN Meals” sites. Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder (USDA). (fns.usda.gov)
- Ask your school’s front office: Ask if your school hosts a 21st Century Community Learning Center or At‑Risk Afterschool Meals program — these are usually no‑cost and in the building. VDOE 21st CCLC program page. (doe.virginia.gov)
- If you lost child care suddenly: Apply for the state Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) right away and get on the local waitlist; approvals can start when a slot opens. Apply via CommonHelp. Program rules, processing timelines, and copays are on the official Child Care VA site. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Quick help box
- Apply online for child care help: CommonHelp — the state portal for CCSP. Apply or screen for eligibility. Review time is typically within 30 days. Local offices manage waitlists. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Find licensed care fast: Use the state search tool for licensed centers and family day homes, plus inspection records. Virginia Search for Child Care. Or call Child Care Aware of Virginia at 866-543-7852 for a tailored list. (childcare.virginia.gov, vachildcare.com)
- Free meals after school and in summer: Schools and community groups serve free snacks, suppers, and summer meals. Find sites here: USDA Summer Meals Finder. (fns.usda.gov)
- Summer grocery benefit (SUN Bucks): Eligible school‑aged kids receive $120 per child per summer on an EBT card. For Virginia details and deposit updates, see VDOE’s SUN Bucks page. Virginia SUN programs overview. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Talk to someone: VDOE Early Childhood/Child Care VA help line 833-778-0204 (weekdays). Local DSS office directory is here: Find your local DSS. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet (scan and go)
| Program | What it covers | Who it’s for | Key dollars | Where to apply/find |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) | Helps pay for licensed afterschool and summer child care (and younger ages) | Working, in training/school, job‑searching, CPS, VIEW, SNAP E&T; income within local limits and below state maximum | New monthly per‑child copays from 5∗∗upto∗∗5** up to **375, capped at 5% of family income; local waitlists in effect | Apply on CommonHelp. Program details, copay chart, and 30‑day review timeline on Child Care VA. (childcare.virginia.gov) |
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) | Free afterschool/summer learning at eligible schools (academics + enrichment + family services) | Students at high‑poverty/low‑performing schools; sites vary by division | Free to families | Ask your school; program overview and grantee lists on VDOE’s 21st CCLC page. (doe.virginia.gov) |
| At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP) | Free afterschool supper/snack tied to enrichment | Schools/centers in areas with ≥50% free/reduced lunch | Free to all kids in participating programs | Ask your school; VDOE At‑Risk Afterschool page explains eligibility and requirements. (doe.virginia.gov, law.lis.virginia.gov) |
| SUN Meals (summer) | Free summer meals at neighborhood sites | All kids 18 and under | Free | Find sites on USDA’s map; Virginia program info on VDOE’s summer nutrition pages. (fns.usda.gov, doe.virginia.gov) |
| SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) | Summer grocery benefit | Most kids eligible for free/reduced‑price meals; many are auto‑enrolled via SNAP/TANF | $120 per child per summer | Virginia updates: VDOE SUN Bucks page. (doe.virginia.gov) |
| Local Parks & Rec Afterschool | School‑site or rec‑center programs with sliding fees | K‑8; varies by locality | Examples below | See city/county parks & recreation sites (examples and numbers below). (norfolk.gov, rva.gov) |
| YMCA After School & Camps | On‑site or branch‑based care; financial assistance available | K‑8; public/private school sites | Example: Princess Anne YMCA afterschool 110/week∗∗regular,∗∗110/week** regular, **84/week member; FA available | Check your local Y; see Richmond and South Hampton Roads assistance pages. (ymcashr.org, ymcarichmond.org) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs | Very low‑cost afterschool/summer with enrichment | Ages 6–18 | Examples: Gloucester 25/year∗∗;Harrisonburg∗∗25/year**; Harrisonburg **45/week; SWVA sites often 0–0–15/week | Contact your local Club (numbers below). (bagclub.com, bgchr.org, bgcswva.org) |
The state child care subsidy that can pay for afterschool and summer: Virginia CCSP
Start here if you need help covering licensed afterschool care, summer day camps, or full‑day care on teacher workdays.
Most important action
- Apply on CommonHelp now: Submit your application and get on the waitlist if your city/county is full. Your local DSS processes your case within 30 days and will call for an interview and documents. CommonHelp application portal. Local office directory and program page are here: Child Care VA — Paying for Child Care. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Who qualifies
- Work/school status: You can be working, in education/training, in active job search, participating in VIEW or SNAP E&T, or receiving CPS services. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Age of child: Under 13, or under 18 if the child has special needs. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Income: Families must meet local income limits and cannot exceed the statewide maximum of 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Local offices apply the official scale for your area. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Homelessness exception: If you can’t provide documents right away due to homelessness, you may be conditionally approved for up to 90 days while you gather paperwork. (childcare.virginia.gov)
What you pay each month (new copays effective July 1, 2025)
Virginia adjusted copays to serve more kids while capping total family payments at 5% of income. Here’s the official per‑child scale.
| Income band (by Federal Poverty Guidelines) | Copay through June 30, 2025 | Copay effective July 1, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Income = $0 | $0 | $0 |
| >0–100% FPG | $0 | $5 |
| 101–150% FPG | $60 | $125 |
| 151–200% FPG | $120 | $175 |
| 201–250% FPG | $120 | $225 |
| 251–300% FPG | $275 | $275 |
| 301–350% FPG | $180 | $325 |
| 351% FPG–85% SMI | — | $375 |
| Family copay cap | 7% of income | 5% of income |
Source: Virginia Department of Education, Child Care VA, “CCSP Copayment Scale,” effective July 1, 2025; fully implemented by September 1, 2025. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Examples from the state’s scenario table
| Family size | Monthly income | Income band | Per‑child copay | Children in care | What you actually pay (cap applied) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | $3,000 | 100–150% FPG | $125 | 2 | 150∗∗total(5150** total (5% cap = **150; $75 per child) |
| 3 | $5,400 | 250–300% FPG | $275 | 1 | 270∗∗total(5270** total (5% cap = **270) |
| 5 | $9,500 | 351% FPG–85% SMI | $375 | 2 | 475∗∗total(5475** total (5% cap = **475) |
Source: Official CCSP copayment examples. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Income reference points (to help you place your household)
The state’s copay sheet shows 2024 FPG monthly amounts used by CCSP. For example, for a family of 4, 100% FPG = 2,600/month∗∗,∗∗2002,600/month**, **200% FPG = 5,200/month, 300% FPG = $7,800/month. Local DSS will check your exact band and apply the copay and the 5% cap. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Waitlists: what to expect in 2025–2026
- Waitlists are active across many localities. Virginia began managing CCSP waitlists on July 1, 2024 and continues in FY2026. Only when families exit will new families move in; some reallocations may happen after November 1 each year if funding allows. Contact your Local DSS for your status. Local DSS directory. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- As of May 22, 2025, news reports indicated more than 12,000 children on the waitlist statewide, with about 4,000 expected to move off in FY2026; the list grew sharply from late 2024. This may affect how fast you get in — plan a backup option while you wait. (vpm.org)
Required documents
- Government‑issued photo ID: parent/guardian.
- Proof of Virginia residency: lease, bill, or letter.
- Child’s proof of age and status: birth certificate or legal residency document; immunization record.
- Income verification: pay stubs, self‑employment record, child support received/paid; or benefits letter for TANF/SNAP/VIEW/SNAP E&T.
- Work/school/job‑search schedule: class schedule, employment letter, or job search note for your phone interview.
- Provider info: if you have one, list their name, phone, and vendor ID (you can choose a provider after approval). (childcare.virginia.gov)
How to apply
- Online: CommonHelp (24/7).
- Paper application: “Child Care Service Application and Redetermination Form” — English and Spanish — submit to your Local DSS (you can request one by mail).
- Review timeline: within 30 days; you may have a phone interview. Approval starts when a CCSP slot and a participating provider are both in place. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Finding a participating provider
- Use the Search for Child Care tool for licensed programs and inspection histories, or call Child Care Aware of Virginia at 866‑543‑7852 for personalized help; they’ll also help providers join CCSP if yours isn’t enrolled yet. (childcare.virginia.gov, vachildcare.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the interview call: keep your phone on and check voicemail; rescheduling stalls your case.
- Uploading incomplete pay stubs or not listing child support: DSS needs full income.
- Waiting to find a provider: get on provider waitlists now so you’re ready when your subsidy slot opens.
- Assuming your copay is unlimited: if your calculated copays exceed 5% of household income, ask your worker to apply the cap. (childcare.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- While you wait for CCSP:
- Ask your school about 21st CCLC or At‑Risk Afterschool Meals sites (often free). (doe.virginia.gov)
- Check Parks & Recreation programs with sliding fees (examples below).
- Apply for YMCA Open Doors or Boys & Girls Club scholarships. (ymcashr.org, bgcswva.org)
- Call 2‑1‑1 for openings others miss. (211virginia.org)
Free school‑based options that many moms miss
At‑Risk Afterschool Meals (CACFP): supper + enrichment at eligible schools/centers
- Why it matters: Programs in areas where at least 50% of students qualify for free/reduced meals can offer a no‑cost supper and enrichment after school, weekends, and some holidays. Some divisions run the program division‑wide. Ask your principal if your school participates. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Virginia law backs this up: If a school qualifies (≥50% free/reduced) and runs enrichment, the school board must apply to participate. Show this code section to your school if they aren’t offering it: § 22.1‑207.4:2. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Find examples: Alexandria City Public Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools post their participating sites each year. If your school isn’t on a list, ask the nutrition office. (acps.k12.va.us, fcps.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask if your school has a 21st CCLC program (often free). If not, ask about fee‑based “Extended Day.” See next section. (doe.virginia.gov)
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC): free afterschool & summer at select schools
- What it is: Federal funding to schools and community groups to run free afterschool and summer learning (academics + clubs + family services). Sites serve high‑poverty, often low‑performing schools. Ask your school office or division website for “21st CCLC” or “Community Learning Center.” (doe.virginia.gov)
- Why this is timely: Virginia is transitioning to a five‑year grant cycle, with the new RFP released in June 2025 and awards in early 2026. Many current programs continue during the transition, so check now for openings. (doe.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your school has no grant‑funded site, look at city Parks & Recreation, YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, or apply for CCSP to use a licensed afterschool provider. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Summer meals and the new summer grocery benefit
SUN Meals (formerly Summer Food Service Program)
- What it offers: Free meals/snacks for all kids 18 and under, at schools, parks, libraries, and community sites — no application or ID. Use the USDA site map; Virginia’s VDOE runs the program statewide. (fns.usda.gov, doe.virginia.gov)
- Rural “Meals To‑Go”: In eligible rural areas, you can pick up multiple days of meals or get delivery. Look for “To‑Go” sites on the USDA map. (fns.usda.gov)
- For organizations: Sponsors must apply by VDOE deadlines each summer; families can ask local groups to partner with VDOE to open a site in underserved neighborhoods. (doe.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If no site nearby, apply for SUN Bucks and check local food pantries via 2‑1‑1. (doe.virginia.gov, 211virginia.org)
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) — summer grocery money
- What it is: A new permanent summer grocery benefit: $120 per eligible child per summer, issued on an EBT card. Many children are automatically eligible if approved for SNAP/TANF or free/reduced‑price school meals; others can apply. Virginia families should follow VDOE guidance and the statewide site listed on the VDOE page for deposit timing and FAQs. (doe.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child wasn’t auto‑approved, check the VDOE page for how to apply, deadlines, and who to contact for missing benefits. Use the USDA Summer Meals map for no‑cost meals while you wait. (doe.virginia.gov, fns.usda.gov)
Local programs and real‑world costs
Prices vary by city/county. Here are current examples from official sites so you can budget.
| Program | Area | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S.O.A.R. After‑School (Parks & Rec) | Norfolk | K‑5: 80/month∗∗;Grades6–8:∗∗80/month**; Grades 6–8: **40/month. “PowerUp” 50% discount with Medicaid; in‑person verification required. | Registration for 2025 opened July 21, 2025; runs at multiple rec centers. (norfolk.gov) |
| SACC (School Age Child Care) | Fairfax County | Monthly afterschool fee ranges by sliding scale from 19∗∗to∗∗19** to **488 for one child; before‑school 7–7–247. Sibling discounts apply. | School‑based; billed in 10 equal monthly payments Aug–May. Registration: 703‑449‑8989. (fairfaxcounty.gov) |
| Out of School Time (OST) | City of Richmond | $140 registration fee (payable in two parts). Program runs until 6 p.m. on school days; snack/meal via CACFP. | OST Office: 804‑646‑6034. (rva.gov) |
| YMCA Before/After School | Virginia Beach (Princess Anne Family YMCA) | Elementary afterschool: 110/week∗∗regular;∗∗110/week** regular; **84/week member. Middle school: 97/week∗∗.One‑timeenrollment∗∗97/week**. One‑time enrollment **75. | Financial assistance available through YMCA Open Doors. (ymcashr.org) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs (BGCVP) | Gloucester/York/NN/Hampton | 25/year∗∗membership;summer∗∗25/year** membership; summer **50/week typical at Gloucester Unit. | Fees vary by unit; call your local Club. (bagclub.com) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs (BGCSWVA) | Roanoke/Montgomery/Franklin | Grant‑funded sites often 0∗∗;otherwise∗∗0**; otherwise **15/week max; summer camps around $65/week max. | “No one turned away for inability to pay.” (bgcswva.org) |
| Boys & Girls Clubs (Harrisonburg‑Rockingham) | Harrisonburg/County sites | After‑school $45/week per child. | Registration windows posted each July. (bgchr.org) |
| Boys & Girls Club of Lynchburg | Lynchburg | Membership 10/child∗∗persession(schoolyearorsummer),familycap∗∗10/child** per session (school year or summer), family cap **20. | Very low fees; confirm hours by site. (bgclyh.org) |
Finding programs near you (beyond your school)
- Child Care Aware of Virginia: Free custom referral list for licensed afterschool and summer care that fits your budget and location. Call 866‑543‑7852 (option 2) or request online. They’ll include programs open late, accepting subsidy, and ones with sliding‑scale fees. (vachildcare.com)
- 2‑1‑1 Virginia: Dial 2‑1‑1 to search Parks & Rec programs, Boys & Girls Clubs, churches, and camps with scholarships. You can also text CONNECT to 247211 or chat on the site 24/7. (211virginia.org)
- VPOST (Virginia Partnership for Out‑of‑School Time): See their maps showing where out‑of‑school programs operate and where gaps exist; use to spot options in your area and ask city leaders to invest. (v-post.org)
How to use Parks & Recreation, YMCA, and Boys & Girls Clubs as a backup plan (and combine with CCSP)
- Ask about the subsidy and discounts up front: Many rec programs, YMCAs, and Clubs accept CCSP or offer fee reductions while you’re on the waitlist.
- YMCA Open Doors: Income‑based assistance; some branches review within 2 days for preschool/child care assistance. Bring last year’s 1040 or non‑filing statement; ask if they accept proof of SNAP/TANF for quick decisions. (ymcashr.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs: Often near‑free with grant funding; some units charge small weekly fees with scholarships. If one clubhouse is full, ask about nearby units with openings. (bgcswva.org)
- Parks & Rec: Fees are usually lower than private providers and may include bus transport from school and snacks via CACFP. Norfolk’s “PowerUp” shows how Medicaid can halve the fee — ask your locality for similar discounts. (norfolk.gov)
Summer camps that fit tight budgets
- 4‑H residential camps: Typical week ranges 290–290–400, with scholarships up to 75% of fees based on free/reduced‑price lunch guidelines and local donations. Examples: Campbell/Appomattox 290∗∗(aidavailable);Botetourt∗∗290** (aid available); Botetourt **400 (aid available); James City $380 (aid available). Contact your county Extension office early. (campbell.ext.vt.edu, botetourt.ext.vt.edu, james-city.ext.vt.edu)
- School division summer meals + day camps: Many school divisions offer summer academic programs with free breakfast/lunch via NSLP/SFSP; ask for “Summer NSLP/SBP” or “summer learning.” (doe.virginia.gov)
- SUN Meals To‑Go in rural areas: Pick‑up bundles can reduce your grocery bill if day camp is short hours. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “camp scholarships” and “summer day camp financial assistance.” Check Boys & Girls Clubs’ weekly rates and scholarships in your area. (211virginia.org)
Documents checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID (adult): license or state ID.
- Proof of Virginia address: lease, utility bill, or official letter.
- Child’s documents: birth certificate or legal status; immunizations.
- Income proof (last 30 days): pay stubs, benefits letters, self‑employment logs; child support received/paid.
- Work/school schedule: employer letter, class schedule, or job‑search note.
- Backup care plan: provider names and phone numbers in case your first choice is full. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Timelines you can actually plan around
- CCSP application: local DSS review within 30 days; benefits start when a slot opens and you select a participating provider. Waitlists move as families exit; reallocation may happen after November 1. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- YMCA Open Doors: some branches process financial assistance in 2 business days (ask your branch). (ymcashr.org)
- SUN Meals and SUN Bucks: meal sites post hours each summer; SUN Bucks deposit schedules are posted on the Virginia program site as they’re finalized. (fns.usda.gov, doe.virginia.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not applying because you think you earn “too much”: CCSP’s maximum is up to 85% of State Median Income — higher than many expect. Get on the waitlist now. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Ignoring free school‑based options: If your school qualifies (≥50% free/reduced), state law expects them to run the Afterschool Meal Program with enrichment — ask. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Relying on a single option: Keep 2–3 backups. Many moms use a mix of school‑based programs, a day or two at the Y, and a relative’s care.
- Missing summer deadlines: 4‑H and Parks & Rec fill early; SUN Bucks application windows (if needed) and card mailings have posted deadlines — set phone reminders and check the VDOE page weekly during spring. (doe.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call: 2‑1‑1 and ask a specialist to search “afterschool,” “OST,” “Boys & Girls Clubs,” “YMCA financial assistance,” and “church programs” within bus routes of your school. (211virginia.org)
- Ask your principal or school social worker: even when there’s no 21st CCLC, divisions often have grants, fee waivers, or transportation adjustments to place students into partner programs.
- Re‑apply/appeal: If your CCSP case is denied for missing documents, submit the missing items and ask for reconsideration; document upload fixes many issues. (childcare.virginia.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your school for a safe, inclusive OST site; if your child is facing bullying, use VDOE bullying prevention resources and ask the program to review its inclusion policy. Tip: Programs funded under 21st CCLC and federal nutrition programs must follow federal civil rights protections. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: When calling programs, ask for “reasonable accommodations” and staff‑to‑child ratios. School‑based programs must provide equal access when feasible. For IEP questions or disputes affecting afterschool access, contact the VDOE Parent Ombudsman for Special Education. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: If you’re active duty or a Guard/Reserve family living near Joint Base Langley‑Eustis, ask your installation family programs office about military child care fee assistance and community partnerships, then layer local OST options listed here.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Your kids can receive SUN Meals and SUN Bucks regardless of immigration status; SUN Bucks does not affect immigration status. Bring any ID you have for pick‑ups; no SSN required for meals. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Ask your school division about partnerships with local tribes, cultural centers, or Title VI programs that run OST and tutoring, and check USDA Area Eligibility maps for community sites eligible to host meals and programming. (fns.usda.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited transportation: Use SUN Meals To‑Go and look for rec‑center sites on school bus routes. Ask the school about late buses tied to clubs or OST. (fns.usda.gov)
- Single fathers: All options in this guide apply equally; CCSP, 21st CCLC, and nutrition programs are gender‑neutral.
- Language access: Ask your DSS and program for interpretation. 2‑1‑1 Virginia supports multilingual referrals by phone/text/chat. (211virginia.org)
Regional resource snapshots (use these as starting points)
- Northern Virginia: Fairfax SACC (703‑449‑8989), Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington sites in Fairfax/Alexandria, and multiple 21st CCLC programs. Fairfax County restored funding for middle school after‑school in 2025–26. (fairfaxcounty.gov, v-post.org)
- Central Virginia (Richmond area): Richmond OST (804‑646‑6034), YMCA of Greater Richmond afterschool with financial help and subsidy navigation. (rva.gov, ymcarichmond.org)
- Hampton Roads: Norfolk S.O.A.R. (city rec centers), Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula (Gloucester/Newport News/Hampton), YMCA of South Hampton Roads Open Doors. (norfolk.gov, bagclub.com, ymcashr.org)
- Roanoke/Blacksburg/New River Valley: Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia (many sites 0–0–15/week), 21st CCLC‑funded divisions, county Parks & Rec programs. (bgcswva.org)
- Shenandoah Valley: Harrisonburg/Rockingham BGC ($45/week), division‑specific 21st CCLC programs. (bgchr.org)
How to pick a safe, quality program fast
- Use inspection records: Look up licensing inspections and complaint history for any licensed center or family day home. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Ask these questions:
- Hours and pickup: What time is pickup? Are there late fees?
- Meals: Do you serve CACFP supper/snack?
- Staffing: What’s your staff‑to‑child ratio and background check process?
- Transportation: Is there a bus from my child’s school?
- Scholarships/subsidy: Do you accept CCSP? Do you offer sliding‑scale fees?
- Call Child Care Aware: If you’re overwhelmed, call 866‑543‑7852 and ask for a curated list that matches your school, hours, and budget. (vachildcare.com)
Application checklist (ready‑to‑submit bundle)
- CCSP application: completed online or paper + uploads.
- Proof of ID, residency, child documents, income, and schedule.
- List of 2–3 providers (licensed) that fit your hours and bus routes.
- Backup plan: YMCA/BGC/Parks & Rec contacts and any scholarship forms. (childcare.virginia.gov)
FAQs for Virginia single moms (state‑specific)
- How long does a CCSP decision take: Up to 30 days from application; approvals activate when a slot opens and you pick a participating provider. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- What if I’m between jobs: You can still qualify while actively job‑seeking; tell your DSS worker during the interview. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- What are the new CCSP copays: Per‑child monthly copays range from 5∗∗upto∗∗5** up to **375, with a family cap of 5% of income, fully in place by September 1, 2025. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- My school is high‑poverty but doesn’t serve supper: Virginia code expects eligible schools to apply for the Afterschool Meal Program when they run enrichment. Share §22.1‑207.4:2 with your principal. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Where do I find free summer meals: Use USDA’s Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder map and filter by hours. (fns.usda.gov)
- How much are SUN Bucks: $120 per child per summer; see Virginia’s SUN Bucks page for eligibility and deposit updates. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Is immigration status a barrier to SUN Bucks or SUN Meals: SUN Bucks eligibility and SUN Meals access do not require U.S. citizenship, and SUN Bucks does not affect immigration status. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Who can help me find licensed programs that match my schedule: Child Care Aware of Virginia at 866‑543‑7852. (vachildcare.com)
- Does Fairfax SACC have reduced fees: Yes, sliding fees go as low as $19/month after school for the lowest income tier. (fairfaxcounty.gov)
- Where can I see which organizations run free afterschool or summer programs in my area: Check VPOST’s Out‑of‑School Time Access Map to see program clusters and gaps. (v-post.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Research approach: We used only official Virginia and federal sources — Virginia Department of Education (Child Care VA, VDOE School & Community Nutrition, 21st CCLC), Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia law, and established nonprofits (YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, Child Care Aware of Virginia, VPOST). Source links are included after each claim.
Update policy: We track policy changes and update state guides within 48 hours of verified changes. This hub reflects the latest copay scale effective July 1, 2025 (fully in place by September 1, 2025) and 2025 program details where available. See our Editorial Standards for our verification and update methodology.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Disclaimer
Information only: This guide summarizes official program rules and public information. Program terms, funding levels, fees, and eligibility can change. Always confirm with the agency or provider before you enroll or rely on benefits.
Security and privacy: We do not collect your personal documents. When applying online, use only official government websites (addresses that end in .virginia.gov or .gov). Keep your account passwords private and enable two‑factor authentication where offered.
Not legal advice: We do not provide legal advice or guarantee outcomes.
If you spot an error or broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We aim to correct verified errors within 48–72 hours.
Sources and official references
- Child Care Subsidy Program — rates, copays, waitlists, timelines, local office directory: VDOE Child Care VA family page; CCSP copay PDF effective July 1, 2025; local DSS directory; application steps and 30‑day review. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- Virginia law — CCSP income policy & Afterschool Meals participation expectation: 8VAC20‑790 and §22.1‑207.4:2. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Waitlist landscape (news context): VPM report on CCSP waitlists as of May 22, 2025. (vpm.org)
- School nutrition programs: VDOE School & Community Nutrition (SUN Meals/SFSP; At‑Risk Afterschool Meals; Afterschool Snack; Summer NSLP/SBP). (doe.virginia.gov)
- USDA Summer programs and tools: SUN Meals overview; Site Finder; Meals To‑Go; Area Eligibility Mapper. (fns.usda.gov)
- 21st CCLC (free afterschool/summer): VDOE Title IV‑B 21st CCLC page and 2025–26 cycle update. (doe.virginia.gov)
- Local program fees: Norfolk S.O.A.R.; Fairfax SACC fee tables; Richmond OST; YMCA of South Hampton Roads Open Doors; YMCA Princess Anne rates; BGCVP Gloucester; BGCSWVA fee policy; BGCHR fees; Boys & Girls Club of Lynchburg. (norfolk.gov, fairfaxcounty.gov, rva.gov, ymcashr.org, bagclub.com, bgcswva.org, bgchr.org, bgclyh.org)
- 4‑H camps and scholarships: County VCE pages showing current fees and scholarship offerings. (campbell.ext.vt.edu, botetourt.ext.vt.edu, james-city.ext.vt.edu)
- Finding care and referrals: Child Care Aware of Virginia (866‑543‑7852) and 2‑1‑1 Virginia. (vachildcare.com, 211virginia.org)
- VPOST statewide OST resources and access maps: VPOST site and projects. (v-post.org)
Tip for scanning this guide: labels like Apply:, Cost:, Deadline:, Phone:, and Eligibility: are bolded so you can find numbers quickly.
🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
