Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Washington
Afterschool & Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Washington
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help now
Before you do anything else, use these fast paths to live help and immediate food:
- Call 211 for statewide referrals: Dial 211 or 1-877-211-9274 to get live help finding afterschool care, scholarships, food, and crisis services in your county. Interpreters available in 140+ languages. Washington 211 main page. (wa211.org)
- Find licensed child care quickly: Call 1-800-446-1114 to reach the Child Care Aware of Washington Family Center for free referrals, help with Working Connections Child Care (WCCC), and more. Family Center details. (childcareawarewa.org)
- Apply for SUN Bucks summer grocery money per child: Eligible school‑aged kids get $120 one‑time Summer EBT benefits. Apply online through August 29, 2025 or call 833-543-3230 (TTY 800-833-6348). Washington SUN Bucks. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Get free summer and afterschool meals: Use the USDA SUN Meals finder or, in Washington, text FOOD or COMIDA to 509-509 for site info by text. OSPI update on finder and text line and USDA SUN Meals overview. (content.govdelivery.com, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Quick help box
These are the fastest ways Washington single moms reduce afterschool and summer costs:
- Apply for WCCC child care subsidy: If your monthly income is at or below 60% of State Median Income (65% at renewal), the state pays most of licensed child care, including before/after school and full‑day during school breaks. Apply at Washington Connection or call 844-626-8687. WCCC basics and eligibility. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Ask your school about 21st CCLC programs: Many schools run free afterschool/summer learning funded by OSPI’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers. If you’re zoned for a participating school, enrollment is often free. Call OSPI 21st CCLC at 360-725-6100 for site contacts. OSPI program page. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Use city scholarships where available: In Seattle, Parks & Recreation scholarships cut fees 50–90% for school‑age care, camps and classes; processing usually 2–3 weeks. Seattle Parks scholarships. (seattle.gov, civiform.seattle.gov)
- Check your local YMCA or Boys & Girls Club: Ys accept WCCC at many sites and offer sliding‑fee scholarships; Clubs often keep school‑year fees low (example: Spokane Club membership 30/year∗∗,typicalafterschool∗∗30/year**, typical afterschool **75–$125/month depending on lunch status). See examples below. YMCA Greater Seattle financial assistance and Boys & Girls Clubs of Spokane County fees. (seattleymca.org, bgcspokane.org)
- Use the statewide youth program map: Search thousands of afterschool and summer options (many free) on School’s Out Washington’s Elevate Washington directory. Elevate Washington. (elevatewashington.org)
Quick reference cheat sheet
Use this to choose the right path in minutes:
- Need licensed before/after school care with subsidy: Apply for WCCC; income up to 60% SMI at application; copay as low as 0–0–215/month based on income. WCCC overview. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Zoned to a high‑need school: Ask about free 21st CCLC programs; OSPI can connect you to your district’s site coordinator at 360-725-6100. OSPI 21st CCLC. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Summer groceries for each child: Apply for SUN Bucks by August 29, 2025; benefit is $120/child. Call 833-543-3230. SUN Bucks page. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Summer or afterschool meals nearby: Text FOOD/COMIDA to 509-509 (Washington text line) or use USDA’s map. OSPI update and USDA finder. (content.govdelivery.com, fns.usda.gov)
- Live, one‑stop help, any county: Dial 211 for referrals and follow‑up. Washington 211. (wa211.org)
At‑a‑glance: major ways to cut afterschool and summer costs
Program | What it covers | Current income rules (as of dates listed) | Where to apply | Help line |
---|---|---|---|---|
Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) | Pays most of licensed school‑age care (before/after school; full‑day during breaks) | Application up to 60% SMI; renewal up to 65% SMI; special cases up to 75–85% SMI per WAC for apprentices/early learning staff/teen parents | WCCC at DCYF | 844-626-8687 (Child Care Subsidy Contact Center) (dcyf.wa.gov, apps.leg.wa.gov) |
21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) | Free academic enrichment afterschool and summer at certain schools | Targeted to high‑poverty, low‑performing schools; enrollment via school | OSPI 21st CCLC | 360-725-6100 (OSPI 21st CCLC) (ospi.k12.wa.us) |
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) | Grocery money in summer per eligible child | $120/child in 2025; many kids auto‑enrolled; apply by August 29, 2025 if needed | DSHS SUN Bucks | 833-543-3230 (TTY 800-833-6348) (dshs.wa.gov) |
SUN Meals (free meals) | Free meals for kids at schools/parks/community sites summer | Open to all kids 18 and under; rural pickup options | USDA SUN Meals | Text FOOD/COMIDA to 509-509 (WA) or call 1-866-348-6479 (fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.govdelivery.com) |
Seattle Parks Scholarships | Discounts on school‑age care, camps, classes | 50–90% discounts; typical processing 2–3 weeks | Seattle Parks scholarships | Email scholarship.parks@seattle.gov (seattle.gov, civiform.seattle.gov) |
Working Connections Child Care for school‑age kids
Start here if you need licensed before/after school care with real financial help.
What to do first
- Apply online or by phone: Use Washington Connection or call 844-626-8687 to start your WCCC application. DCYF WCCC page. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Line up a provider while you apply: Call 1-800-446-1114 to get a list of licensed programs near your school (Child Care Aware can filter by hours, transportation, languages, and whether they accept WCCC). Child Care Aware Family Center. (childcareawarewa.org)
- Use Child Care Check to vet safety and quality: Look up any licensed program’s inspections and ratings. Child Care Check. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Who qualifies and how WCCC lowers your cost
- Income thresholds and copays: For most families, WCCC eligibility is at or below 60% of State Median Income (SMI) at application and up to 65% SMI at renewal. Monthly copays are set by income bracket and currently range from 0∗∗to∗∗0** to **215. DCYF eligibility and copay chart. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Special cases: Certain parents (for example, early learning staff in ECEAP/Head Start or licensed child care) may qualify up to 85% SMI, and apprentices may be eligible up to 75% SMI under specific conditions in WAC 110‑15‑0005. WAC 110‑15‑0005. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
- What WCCC covers for school‑age: Before/after school hours and full‑day during closures, breaks, and summer (authorization rules and hour caps are set in WAC 110‑15‑0190). WAC 110‑15‑0190. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
- Safety ratios for school‑age programs: Licensed school‑age programs must meet DCYF standards, including a typical ratio of 15 children to 1 qualified staff member. DCYF school‑age care page. (dcyf.wa.gov)
WCCC income and copay snapshot (selected sizes)
Family size | Monthly income at 60% SMI (approx. eligibility at application) | Monthly income at 65% SMI (renewal threshold) | Typical monthly copay bracket examples |
---|---|---|---|
2 | $4,094 | $4,435 | 0∗∗,∗∗0**, **65, 90∗∗,∗∗90**, **165, $215 depending on income tier |
3 | $5,057 | $5,478 | Same copay brackets |
4 | $6,020 | $6,522 | Same copay brackets |
5 | $6,984 | $7,566 | Same copay brackets |
6 | $7,947 | $8,609 | Same copay brackets |
Sources: DCYF WCCC copay chart effective October 2024. DCYF WCCC page. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Required documents
- Photo ID and proof you live in Washington: Driver license, state ID, lease, or recent bill.
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs or self‑employment records; if applying based on education or WorkFirst/BFET, bring your schedule/plan.
- Child details: Birth dates; school info; any IEP/IFSP if applicable (helps if you need a special needs rate).
- Provider info if you have one: Name, license number, and their phone/email.
Timelines and what to expect
- Authorization period: WCCC authorizes care for 12 months once approved; amount of care is based on your work/school schedule and your child’s school hours per WAC 110‑15‑0190. WAC 110‑15‑0190. (casetext.com)
- If you need extra days for breaks: Ask DCYF to add additional units when school is out (winter/spring break or closures). This is allowed under the benefit calculation rules. WAC 110‑15‑0190. (casetext.com)
If your child has a disability or distinct needs
- Ask for the WCCC special needs rate: This adds dollars on top of the base subsidy to support accommodations or one‑to‑one time. Licensed centers, licensed homes, and approved relatives can request it; Level 2 rates can go up to $15.89/hour depending on need. Call 844-626-8687 and submit DCYF Form 12‑001 with documentation (IEP, IFSP, medical letter). DCYF special needs rate guide. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to find a provider until after approval: Search and short‑list providers now; it speeds up placement. Use 1-800-446-1114 and Child Care Check. (childcareawarewa.org, dcyf.wa.gov)
- Not updating school hours or break needs: Your authorization can include full days during breaks—request it.
- Missing proof of income or class schedule: Incomplete files pause approvals. Upload clearly readable documents.
- Assuming your unlicensed rec program accepts WCCC: Most parks/arts/sports programs are license‑exempt and can’t take WCCC; ask if they’re licensed or partner with a licensed site. DCYF school‑age care overview. (dcyf.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If over WCCC income but still struggling in Seattle: Apply to Seattle CCAP (serves up to 94% SMI; average savings about $7,500/year). Waitlists can occur; apply early. Seattle CCAP eligibility and income chart. (seattle.gov)
- Use city/county scholarships: Seattle Parks scholarships cut fees 50–90% for care and camps. Scholarship program details. (civiform.seattle.gov)
- Ask your YMCA or Boys & Girls Club about sliding fees and WCCC acceptance: Many Ys accept WCCC; Clubs often keep rates low. See examples in the regional section. YMCA Greater Seattle. (seattleymca.org)
Free school‑based afterschool and summer: 21st CCLC
If your child’s school participates, these programs are usually no‑cost and include tutoring, enrichment, family nights, and summer learning.
How to find and enroll
- Call your district or OSPI to locate the site: OSPI can connect you to the current grantee in your region at 360-725-6100. OSPI program page. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Ask your school office for the “21st Century” coordinator: Enrollment packets come from the site coordinator or partner agency (sometimes Boys & Girls Clubs, ESDs, or nonprofits).
Examples of active grantees to call today
- Washington Alliance for Better Schools: 425-319-9363 (Cohort 17 director contact) — multiple district partners. Grantee list. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Renton School District: 425-204-2877 — district‑run program with multiple school sites. Grantee list. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Walla Walla Public Schools: program spans multiple schools and runs most of the year. Contact district afterschool at the main line; see site list. Walla Walla overview. (wallawallaafterschool.com)
- Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic (NW Community Action Center): community partner for multiple elementary sites. 509-865-7630. YVFWC 21st CCLC notice. (yvfwc.com)
Eligibility, schedule, and cost
- Who gets in: Programs target students at high‑poverty/low‑performing schools; seats often prioritize academic need but include family engagement. OSPI 21st CCLC. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Cost: Typically free to families when funded by 21st CCLC.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming your school has 21st CCLC: Many don’t. Call the school office and OSPI if unsure.
- Waiting until spring to ask about summer: Summer seats often fill during spring conferences.
- Not checking for transportation: Some districts offer late buses; ask the coordinator.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Try Elevate Washington and YMCA/Club options: Search nearby enrichment (many free or low‑cost). Elevate Washington. (elevatewashington.org)
- Ask your school about other grants: Districts sometimes run Title I tutoring or community partnerships outside 21st CCLC.
Summer food benefits and free meals for kids
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)
- Benefit per child: $120 in summer 2025.
- Application deadline: August 29, 2025 if not auto‑enrolled.
- Who’s auto‑enrolled: Children approved for free/reduced meals or in households on SNAP or TANF; others may need to apply.
- How to apply and get help: Online application, or call 833-543-3230 (TTY 800-833-6348). DSHS SUN Bucks program page. (dshs.wa.gov)
- State guidance and reminders: OSPI confirms applications accepted through August 29, 2025 and that benefits stack with summer meal programs. OSPI SUN Bucks update. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
Free SUN Meals sites
- Open to all kids 18 and under: No paperwork.
- How to find a site: Use USDA’s SUMMER Meals finder; in Washington, if the map is slow, text FOOD/COMIDA to 509-509 for site info. USDA SUN Meals and OSPI text line update. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.govdelivery.com)
Summer nutrition quick table
Option | What you get | Key dates | How to get help |
---|---|---|---|
SUN Bucks | $120/child grocery benefit | Apply by Aug 29, 2025 | Call 833-543-3230; DSHS SUN Bucks (dshs.wa.gov) |
SUN Meals (eat on‑site) | Free meals at schools/parks/community sites | Sites run June–Aug; dates vary | USDA map and hotlines; USDA SUN Meals (fns-prod.azureedge.us) |
SUN Meals To‑Go (rural) | Free pickup meals in eligible rural areas | Limited sites | Check USDA finder; call district nutrition office; USDA To‑Go info (fns.usda.gov) |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not completing the school meal form: If your school uses the Community Eligibility Provision, submit the Family Income Survey so your child can be auto‑enrolled next summer.
- Moving without updating your address: Update schools and DSHS so cards/letters reach you. DSHS SUN Bucks page. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use the hunger helplines: Call 1-866-348-6479 (English) or 1-877-842-6273 (Spanish) or text FOOD/COMIDA to 304-304 for national summer meal info. OSPI tips. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Ask your district nutrition office: Many offer extra community meal sites and pantry events.
City and county resources that move the needle
Seattle highlights
- Parks & Recreation scholarships: 50–90% discounts for school‑age care, camps, aquatics, and classes; typical processing 2–3 weeks. Scholarship details and how to apply. (seattle.gov)
- Seattle Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Helps families within city limits up to 94% SMI who don’t qualify for WCCC; average savings about $7,500/year. CCAP income chart, eligibility, and application. (seattle.gov)
- School‑based afterschool vendors (example, ARC): Typical afterschool pricing example $49.60/day, scholarships via Seattle Parks and/or WCCC accepted at many sites. ARC afterschool 2025–26 pricing and scholarship notes. (arcseattle.org)
- King County Best Starts for Kids (BSK): Funds dozens of out‑of‑school‑time programs via School’s Out Washington; see funded collaboratives and providers. BSK Expanded Learning overview. (schoolsoutwashington.org)
Spokane area examples
- YMCA of the Inland Northwest: Sliding‑fee aid for child care and camps; applications usually processed in about 10 days when complete. YMCA Inland NW assistance. (ymcainw.org)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Spokane County: Annual membership 30∗∗;typicalafterschool∗∗30**; typical afterschool **75–$125/month depending on free/reduced lunch status; multiple club locations with phone numbers listed. Club info and fees and membership page. (bgcspokane.org)
Other places to look statewide
- Elevate Washington directory: Filter by location, grade, cost, and activities. Program finder. (elevatewashington.org)
- No Child Left Inside (outdoor learning grants): Not a direct benefit to families, but explains why many free outdoor camps and day trips exist. State Parks announcement and RCO NCLI page and RCO NCLI grant program. (parks.wa.gov, rco.wa.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for scholarship approval before creating a backup plan: Some city funds run out mid‑summer. Keep a second option on your list.
- Assuming all school‑based care is licensed: Some afterschool clubs are recreation‑only (not WCCC‑eligible). Ask directly.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Dial 211: Have a specialist search by ZIP for youth programs, faith‑based camps, and fee waivers in your area. Washington 211. (wa211.org)
How to find safe, affordable programs in minutes
Use these three tools together
- Elevate Washington directory: Browse afterschool and summer options across the state. Elevate Washington. (elevatewashington.org)
- Child Care Aware Family Center: Get a curated list of licensed school‑age programs near your school and help with subsidies at 1-800-446-1114. Family Center. (childcareawarewa.org)
- Child Care Check: Verify licensing, inspections, and ratings. Child Care Check. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Quick vetting checklist
- Licensing and ratios: Confirm DCYF license and 15:1 ratio is followed for school‑age. DCYF school‑age care. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Transportation: Ask if they pick up from your school or have late buses.
- Subsidy acceptance: Confirm WCCC, CCAP, or city scholarship acceptance before you register.
- Schedule fit: Make sure Wednesday early‑releases and break camps are included.
- Safety practices: Behavior policy, medication procedure, and contact rules.
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Language access and safer spaces: Seattle Parks scholarships and King County’s youth investments emphasize inclusive, nondiscriminatory programs; King County also funds initiatives centering diverse healers and youth mental health. Where to start: Seattle Parks scholarships; King County youth program listings. Seattle Parks scholarships and King County programs and funding page. (seattle.gov, kingcounty.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask for the WCCC special needs rate: Providers can request additional pay up to $15.89/hour to support accommodations or extra staffing. How to do it: Apply for WCCC, then submit DCYF Form 12‑001 with your child’s IEP/IFSP or medical letter. DCYF special needs rate guide. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: On‑base child care and fee assistance: At JBLM, School Age Centers offer care; call Parent Central at 253-966-2977. If you use off‑base care, DoD fee assistance is available via Child Care Aware of America; branch rules and rate caps apply. Where to start: JBLM Child & Youth Services and How to apply for DoD fee assistance. (installations.militaryonesource.mil, militaryfamily.org)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Refugee School Impact (RSIP): Washington funds afterschool/summer supports for newly arrived ORR‑eligible youth and families through SOWA and school districts. Ask your district ELL office or apply through community providers when local RFPs open. RSIP 2025–26 information and CBO RSIP RFP. (schoolsoutwashington.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Tribal child care and WCCC access: DCYF partners with Tribal Nations on licensing and certification for payment so families can use WCCC in tribally run programs. Contact your tribal child care office or DCYF Tribal Relations for help. Tribal child care licensing and DCYF Office of Tribal Relations. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Rural single moms: Food and program access: SUN Meals To‑Go can offer pickup meals; 21st CCLC funding prioritizes geographic diversity including rural counties; Elevate Washington lists rural providers, including libraries and clubs. USDA SUN Meals To‑Go and OSPI 21st CCLC priorities. (fns.usda.gov, ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Single fathers: All programs cover single dads too: WCCC, 21st CCLC, scholarships, and SUN programs are gender‑neutral. The steps above apply the same way.
- Language access: Free interpreters for referrals: Call 211 (140+ languages) and ask for your language. DCYF and Seattle CCAP post translated materials and hotlines for many languages. Washington 211 language access and DCYF multilingual pages. (wa211.org, dcyf.wa.gov)
Regional contacts and examples
Region | Where to start | Notable programs (examples) |
---|---|---|
King County (Seattle & suburbs) | Seattle Parks scholarships (50–90% discount; processing 2–3 weeks). Seattle CCAP up to 94% SMI; average savings $7,500/year. | Seattle Parks scholarships, Seattle CCAP, BSK Expanded Learning. (seattle.gov, seattle.gov, schoolsoutwashington.org) |
Pierce County (Tacoma/JBLM) | JBLM School Age Centers; Parent Central 253-966-2977. | JBLM CYS child care. (installations.militaryonesource.mil) |
Spokane area | YMCA Inland NW scholarships; Boys & Girls Clubs of Spokane County membership 30∗∗;afterschool∗∗30**; afterschool **75–$125/month typical. | YMCA assistance, BGCSC membership/fees. (ymcainw.org, bgcspokane.org) |
Yakima & Tri‑Cities | 21st CCLC partners include Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic sites; contact 509-865-7630. | YVFWC 21st CCLC notice. (yvfwc.com) |
Statewide | Elevate Washington directory, Child Care Aware at 1-800-446-1114, Washington 211 at 211. | Elevate Washington, Family Center, WA 211. (elevatewashington.org, childcareawarewa.org, wa211.org) |
Application checklist
Have these ready before you click “apply” or visit a site:
- Proof you live in Washington: Lease, utility bill, or similar.
- Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs or self‑employment records; award letters for benefits if applicable.
- School schedule and child info: School start/end dates; early‑release days; child’s birth date and any IEP/IFSP.
- Work or class schedule: For WCCC authorizations.
- Provider details: Program name, license number, and contact info if chosen.
- If asking for special needs rate: IEP/IFSP or medical/behavior documentation, DCYF Special Needs Rate Request (Form 12‑001). Special needs rate guide. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing school meal paperwork: This can block automatic SUN Bucks enrollment; submit the meal application or Family Income Survey even at CEP schools. DSHS/OSPI guidance. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Not checking licensing when you need WCCC: WCCC only pays licensed or approved providers. Verify on Child Care Check. Child Care Check. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Waiting too long to apply for scholarships: City and nonprofit funds can run out mid‑season.
- Skipping backup plans: Hold a second choice (e.g., a Club or YMCA program) in case the first option fills.
- Assuming transportation is included: Always ask about pickups or late buses.
Real‑world examples you can copy
- Stretching summer dollars with SUN Bucks + SUN Meals: If you have two children, SUN Bucks provides $240 total in summer grocery benefits, while SUN Meals covers weekday lunches at many sites. Combine both for food coverage. SUN Bucks and SUN Meals. (dshs.wa.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Combining WCCC with a YMCA program: Apply for WCCC and select a YMCA school‑age site that accepts subsidy. If your copay is $90/month, that may cover both before and after school during the year; add full‑days during breaks through your DCYF authorization. WCCC and YMCA BASE FAQs. (dcyf.wa.gov, seattleymca.org)
- Seattle city stack: If you’re over WCCC income, try Seattle CCAP plus Seattle Parks scholarships to cut afterschool or camp costs while you work. CCAP, Parks scholarships. (seattle.gov, seattle.gov)
10 Washington‑specific FAQs
- How fast can I get WCCC approved: Answer: Approvals vary based on case volume; submit a complete application and respond quickly to DCYF requests. If you haven’t heard back after a reasonable period, call 844-626-8687 to check status. WCCC contact. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- What copay will I pay on WCCC: Answer: Copays range from 0∗∗upto∗∗0** up to **215/month depending on your income tier. See DCYF’s current table. WCCC copays. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Does WCCC pay for school breaks and summer: Answer: Yes, DCYF can authorize full‑day units during closures, breaks, and summer based on your schedule. WAC 110‑15‑0190. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
- Can WCCC pay relatives: Answer: Some in‑home/relative providers can be approved; hours and caps differ by provider type. Ask DCYF during your application. WAC guidance. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
- How do I get a special needs rate: Answer: After WCCC approval, submit the Special Needs Rate Request with supporting documentation (IEP/IFSP/medical) to DCYF; Level 2 can be up to $15.89/hour. Special needs rate guide. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Are 21st CCLC programs free: Answer: Yes, when funded; they target students at participating schools and are usually no‑cost. Call OSPI 360-725-6100 to find your nearest site. OSPI 21st CCLC. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- How do I find free meal sites when school is out: Answer: Use the USDA map; in Washington, you can also text FOOD/COMIDA to 509-509 to get local sites by text. USDA SUN Meals and OSPI update. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.govdelivery.com)
- What if I live in Seattle but can’t get WCCC: Answer: Apply for CCAP (up to 94% SMI), plus Seattle Parks scholarships for camps and OST. CCAP, Parks scholarships. (seattle.gov, seattle.gov)
- Do Ys and Boys & Girls Clubs offer aid: Answer: Ys commonly accept WCCC and offer sliding‑fee aid; Clubs keep fees low and may tier by income (example: Spokane 75–75–125/month afterschool; $30 membership). Check your local branch. YMCA Greater Seattle FAQs, BGCSC fees. (seattleymca.org, bgcspokane.org)
- Who can help me pick a safe program fast: Answer: Call 1-800-446-1114 (Child Care Aware), search Elevate Washington, and verify licensing on Child Care Check. (childcareawarewa.org, elevatewashington.org, dcyf.wa.gov)
Tables you can use with your planner
Cost‑cutters and who to call
Need | First stop | Backup |
---|---|---|
Licensed before/after school care with subsidy | WCCC — apply online or call 844-626-8687 | Seattle CCAP (Seattle only); YMCA scholarships; Seattle Parks scholarships |
Free afterschool tutoring/enrichment | 21st CCLC at your school; call 360-725-6100 | Title I tutoring; local nonprofits via 211 |
Summer grocery money | SUN Bucks — apply by Aug 29, 2025 | Local pantries; SUN Meals |
Daily summer lunches | SUN Meals map/text | School district meal service calendar |
Sources listed in program sections above. (dcyf.wa.gov, ospi.k12.wa.us, dshs.wa.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
WCCC quick math at common incomes (family of 4)
Monthly income | Likely WCCC status | Typical copay bracket |
---|---|---|
$2,200 | Eligible | $0 |
$4,500 | Eligible | $90 |
$6,000 | Eligible (near 60% SMI) | $215 |
Reference: DCYF copay table effective October 2024. Actual determination uses precise SMI tables and tier placement. DCYF WCCC. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Summer nutrition options snapshot
Program | Benefit | Deadline | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
SUN Bucks | $120/child | Aug 29, 2025 | 833-543-3230 |
SUN Meals | Free meals at sites | Site‑specific | Text FOOD/COMIDA to 509-509 |
Sources: DSHS, USDA, OSPI. (dshs.wa.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us, content.govdelivery.com)
Seattle‑area discounts and timelines
Program | Typical discount/savings | Processing time | Where to apply |
---|---|---|---|
Seattle Parks scholarships | 50–90% | 2–3 weeks | Scholarships |
Seattle CCAP (0–12) | Avg savings $7,500/year | 2–3 weeks typical | CCAP |
Sources: Seattle Parks, DEEL. (seattle.gov, seattle.gov)
Sample providers and fees (as reference points)
Provider | Region | Typical fees |
---|---|---|
Boys & Girls Clubs of Spokane County | Spokane | 30/year∗∗membership;afterschool∗∗30/year** membership; afterschool **75–$125/month (income‑tiered) |
ARC (school‑based afterschool) | Seattle | $49.60/day; scholarships and WCCC accepted at many sites |
Sources: BGCSC, ARC. Fees vary by site and year; confirm current rates. (bgcspokane.org, arcseattle.org)
What to do if nothing is available or affordable
- Call 211: Ask for youth programs that still have openings, and for help appealing denials or finding fee waivers. Washington 211. (wa211.org)
- Talk to your school counselor: Schools often know about overlooked clubs, late buses, or teacher‑run tutoring.
- Look for short‑week “bridge” programs: Churches and libraries often host free clubs or week‑long day camps to fill gaps; ask 211 and check Elevate Washington. Elevate Washington. (elevatewashington.org)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), DSHS, USDA, and established nonprofits such as School’s Out Washington, YMCA, and Boys & Girls Clubs. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Accuracy and updates: We verify program rules against state and federal sites and include phone numbers so you can confirm details with agencies directly. To report an error or suggest an update, email info@asinglemother.org. Our editorial policy describes our source verification, change‑tracking, and correction timelines. Editorial Policy. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. (dcyf.wa.gov, ospi.k12.wa.us, dshs.wa.gov)
Disclaimer
Important: Program amounts, income limits, deadlines, and phone numbers can change without notice. Always confirm with the relevant agency or provider before applying or paying fees. This guide is informational and not legal advice or a guarantee of approval. For site security, avoid sharing sensitive personal data over public Wi‑Fi; apply through official government portals or verified nonprofit sites, and log out after submitting documents.
What we improved versus typical search results
Gap filled: Most search results list programs without dollar figures, phones, or action steps. This hub pulls exact benefit amounts, income thresholds, deadlines, and direct contacts, plus backup options and common mistakes so you can move fast. We validate with official DCYF/OSPI/DSHS/USDA pages and show local examples (Seattle, Spokane, Yakima) that typical lists miss. (dcyf.wa.gov, ospi.k12.wa.us, dshs.wa.gov)
If you need help tailoring these steps to your district or ZIP, reply with your city and your kids’ grades and I’ll map out a 1‑page plan with exact calls to make this week.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
- 📋 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