Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- If you need food today: Call 211 or 877-947-2211 to find the nearest free youth meal site or pantry, or use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- If you’re in crisis or need mental health support: Call or text 988. For county crisis lines, see DHS’s directory. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- If your child needs a safe place after school this week: Call your school office and ask about a “21st Century Community Learning Center” or “Safe Place” at your school, or call Milwaukee Recreation at 414-475-8180. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
Quick help box
- Best first step for help paying afterschool or summer programs: Apply for Wisconsin Shares online with ACCESS Wisconsin or call your local agency. Milwaukee County families can call 888-947-6583 and select the child care option. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Free afterschool sites: Ask your school about a 21st Century Community Learning Center; many sites are free and include tutoring, enrichment, and family activities. Milwaukee families can view CLC and Safe Places site lists on Milwaukee Recreation. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- Free meals for kids: During the school year, many afterschool programs serve free suppers or snacks; in summer, all kids can eat free at SUN Meals sites with no paperwork. Use the USDA finder to locate sites. (fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Grocery help in summer: Summer EBT gives $120 per eligible child; Wisconsin issued the main round on June 7, 2025 and continues catch‑up issuances through September. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Can’t find a spot: Call YoungStar/CCR&R at 888-713-5437 for local afterschool and camp openings that accept Wisconsin Shares. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
What this guide includes
- Concrete dollar amounts, income limits, deadlines, and phone numbers you can use right now
- Step‑by‑step Wisconsin‑specific instructions for afterschool and summer programs
- Plan B options when a program or funding doesn’t work out
- Regional and community‑specific resources across Wisconsin
What top search results miss and how this hub is different
Most “afterschool help in Wisconsin” articles list programs without Wisconsin‑specific numbers, don’t link directly to official portals, and rarely include real fee examples or county contacts. Below you’ll find current Wisconsin Shares income limits effective February 2025, Summer EBT benefit amounts for 2025, YMCA camp weekly fees for 2025, Boys & Girls Club fees at two Wisconsin affiliates, and Milwaukee CLC/Safe Places site contacts—each linked to official state or provider pages and dated sources. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, ymcamke.org, bgcosh.org, bgctric.org, milwaukeerecreation.net)
Programs at a glance
| Program | What it covers | Typical cost to family | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy | Helps pay licensed or certified afterschool and summer child care, including many YMCA programs and camps | Varies by income and hours; family pays a copay and any amount above the state rate | Income at or below 200% FPL at application, continued up to 85% SMI with ongoing eligibility | Apply via ACCESS Wisconsin; or call your county/tribal agency; Milwaukee County call 888-947-6583 |
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CLCs) | Free afterschool and summer academic/enrichment at eligible schools | $0 | Students at funded school sites; priority often for Title I or academic need | Ask your school; Milwaukee lists CLC and Safe Places sites online |
| CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool Meals | Free snack/supper at eligible afterschool sites | $0 | Children at qualifying sites in low‑income areas | Provided on‑site at registered programs |
| SUN Meals (SFSP/SSO) | Free summer meals for all kids 18 and under | $0 | Any child 18 or younger; no application | Use USDA Summer Meals Site Finder |
| Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) | Grocery benefits in summer | $120 per eligible child for summer 2025 | Kids approved for free/reduced meals or in households on FoodShare, W‑2, FDPIR, or certain Medicaid | Automatic if eligible; see DHS Summer EBT pages for details |
Source highlights include DCF and DHS program pages, USDA nutrition program pages, and Milwaukee Recreation for CLC/Safe Places. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, milwaukeerecreation.net, fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Start here to reduce your out‑of‑pocket cost
Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy
- Why this is first: It can pay a big portion of licensed afterschool care and many summer day camps if the provider participates in YoungStar and accepts Wisconsin Shares.
- Income limits right now: Initial eligibility requires monthly gross income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level; ongoing eligibility can continue up to 85% of State Median Income. Current monthly thresholds are below. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
Wisconsin Shares financial eligibility (effective February 1, 2025)
| Assistance group size | 200% FPL monthly | 85% SMI monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,525 | $5,671 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $7,005 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $8,340 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $9,674 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $11,008 |
Source is the DCF 2025 FPL/SMI table. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- What you’ll pay each month: Families pay a copay that is calculated hourly based on income, number of children in care, and authorized hours. Some families have a $0 copay, including foster families, certain kinship placements, and W‑2 participants. Your copay may be higher if the provider’s price exceeds the state’s maximum rate. Use the official estimator to preview your costs. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, childcareestimator.wisconsin.gov)
- Approved parent activities include: Working, school, apprenticeships, certain FSET activities, W‑2 or Tribal TANF participation, and high school for parents under 20. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- How to apply fast: Apply at ACCESS Wisconsin or call your local Income Maintenance agency. Milwaukee County families complete eligibility with Milwaukee Enrollment Services and authorizations through MECA at 888-947-6583. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Find participating programs: Use the state’s [Child Care Finder] to search by location and the YoungStar quality rating; all programs that accept Shares must participate in YoungStar. If you can’t find openings, call your CCR&R at 888-713-5437 for live help. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Documents to gather before you apply:
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Last 30 days of paystubs or self‑employment records
- Child’s birth certificate if not born in Wisconsin
- Child’s SSN if available
- School schedule or work schedule if relevant
These are the items DCF lists for verification. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Real example: A single mom of two in Dane County with monthly earnings of $4,000 (under 200% FPL for a family of three) is likely eligible. If her 8‑year‑old attends a licensed afterschool program 15 hours per week and a licensed summer day camp 40 hours per week, Wisconsin Shares may cover a large portion of those hours; any gap depends on the provider’s price and YoungStar rate. Use the estimator to preview your exact out‑of‑pocket. (childcareestimator.wisconsin.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your provider to become approved for Wisconsin Shares if they aren’t already.
- Apply for City of Madison Child Care Assistance if you live in Madison and don’t qualify for Shares; it may help with accredited programs. Phone 608-267-4996. (cityofmadison.com)
- Check Boys & Girls Clubs and CLC/Safe Places below for free or low‑cost options.
Free or nearly free program options
21st Century Community Learning Centers and Safe Places
- Why this matters: These school‑based programs provide no‑ or low‑cost afterschool and summer learning with tutoring, enrichment, arts, and family engagement. Wisconsin CLCs have shown gains in attendance, engagement, and GPA for participating students. (wcer.wisc.edu)
- How to find a slot: Call your school office and ask for the “CLC coordinator.” In Milwaukee, see current site lists for CLCs and Safe Places and call the listed site coordinator. A nominal fee may apply in some Safe Places, and many accept Wisconsin Shares. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- Reality check: Popular sites have waitlists, especially in fall and April‑June. Sign up as early as the school allows and ask to be placed on the waitlist.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your principal if your school partners with a community organization for afterschool (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, COA, etc.) and whether a CLC application will open mid‑year.
Free meals for kids
- During school year: Many afterschool programs serve a free supper/snack through CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool. Parents don’t apply; the site handles the paperwork. Programs must end CACFP At‑Risk when the school year ends, then may switch to summer meals. (fns.usda.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
- During summer: All kids 18 and under can eat free at SUN Meals sites—no ID or paperwork. Some rural areas offer SUN Meals To‑Go pickup. Find locations using the USDA finder. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If a site is closed or full, call 211 and ask for summer meal sites nearby or text your ZIP code to 898211 for help. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) for groceries
- Benefit amount: $120 per eligible child for summer 2025. Wisconsin sent the main issuance on June 7, 2025, with ongoing catch‑up issuances through September. Unused benefits expire if not used within the state’s timeframe; watch your notices. Quest Card help is at 877-415-5154. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
- Who qualifies automatically: Children approved for free or reduced‑price meals at an NSLP school, or who were in a household on FoodShare, W‑2, FDPIR, or certain income‑based Medicaid at any time during the school year or summer. Homeschool/virtual students must meet specific age and program criteria. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Deadline reality: The 2025 eligibility cutoff was August 28, 2025. If you missed it, take steps now so your child appears on the 2026 eligibility list—apply for a qualifying program or make sure your free/reduced meal form is on file with your school. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Email the state Summer EBT Support Team at DHSSEBTSupport@dhs.wisconsin.gov or call 833-431-2224. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Low‑cost community programs that often work with Wisconsin Shares
YMCA summer day camps and afterschool
- What it costs near Milwaukee: Weekly fees for 2025 show Traditional Camp at 257∗∗perweekformembersand∗∗257** per week for members and **289 for non‑members; some specialty camps are 302–302–333. A $30 registration fee applies. Many Y locations accept Wisconsin Shares and offer financial aid. Contact the Milwaukee Y Day Camp office at 414-274-0759. (ymcamke.org)
- Provider details you may need for Shares authorization: YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee Provider Number 1000558721; location numbers vary by site. YMCA of Greater Waukesha County Provider Number 4000558914; location numbers listed on their site. (ymcamke.org, gwcymca.org)
- Timeline tip: Camp weeks have payment deadlines roughly 10 days prior; spots fill by April–May. Apply for Shares and request authorizations early to avoid paying full price up front. (ymcamke.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Y about sliding‑fee assistance; if you’re on free/reduced lunch, ask whether any additional camp discounts exist or whether your location has scholarship funds.
Boys & Girls Clubs
- Oshkosh area school‑sites: Annual Club membership 25∗∗forthefirstchild(∗∗25** for the first child (**50 family max), plus afterschool daily fees of $10; accepts child care assistance at certain sites. Questions line 920-233-1414. (bgcosh.org)
- Tri‑County Area (Berlin/Green Lake): Annual membership 25∗∗.GreenLakesiteafterschoolfee∗∗25**. Green Lake site afterschool fee **65 per semester for ages 7–12; Berlin site lists semester fees of $200 for some ages; scholarships available and some programs funded by 21st CCLC. Call 920-361-2717 ext 0 for scholarships. (bgctric.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Club about scholarships or whether your school hosts a free CLC program you can join.
Wisconsin Youth Company (Dane and Waukesha counties)
- Discounts and help: Families approved for free/reduced‑price lunch get a 25% tuition discount on eligible school‑year and summer day camp programs; additional need‑based scholarships are available. Contact 608-276-9782 (Dane) or 262-547-8770 (Waukesha). (wisconsinyouthcompany.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WYC staff to help you apply for Wisconsin Shares or City of Madison Child Care Assistance if you live in Madison. (cityofmadison.com)
Taxes that can put money back in your pocket
- Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit: Up to 35% of up to 3,000∗∗inexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** in expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more, depending on income; claimed with IRS Form 2441. This applies to afterschool and summer day camp (not overnight camp). (irs.gov)
- Wisconsin Child and Dependent Care Credit: For tax years beginning 2024, Wisconsin matches 100% of your federal credit and raises allowable expenses to 10,000∗∗foronequalifyingpersonand∗∗10,000** for one qualifying person and **20,000 for two or more. That means maximum state credits now range roughly 2,000–2,000–3,500 for one child and 4,000–4,000–7,000 for two or more, depending on income. See 2023 Wisconsin Act 101. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, wpr.org)
- Tip: Keep receipts showing the provider’s EIN, dates of care, and amounts paid; you’ll need these at tax time. (irs.gov)
Find and choose a program
Use YoungStar and the Child Care Finder
- Why it matters: Programs that accept Wisconsin Shares must participate in YoungStar, Wisconsin’s quality rating system. You can view ratings, inspection history, hours, and special services, and then compare options. If the online search is tricky, call your local CCR&R at 888-713-5437 for live help. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Reality check: Some afterschool programs are licensed day camps or school‑age centers; others are school‑run and not set up to take Shares. Ask directly whether they accept Wisconsin Shares and their YoungStar status.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school about transportation to a nearby licensed program that accepts Shares, or request an alternate authorization if your primary program is full.
Regional quick contacts
| Region | Key contacts |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee County | Milwaukee Enrollment Services: 888-947-6583; walk‑in at 6055 N 64th St or UMOS, 2701 S Chase Ave; MECA authorizations: 888-947-6583 (press 1,1,2). Milwaukee Recreation general: 414-475-8180. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov, milwaukeerecreation.net) |
| Dane County | Wisconsin Youth Company: 608-276-9782; City of Madison Child Care Assistance: 608-267-4996. (wisconsinyouthcompany.org, cityofmadison.com) |
| Waukesha/West Suburbs | Wisconsin Youth Company Waukesha: 262-547-8770; YMCA Greater Waukesha County Shares line: 888-947-6583 or 262-335-4610. (wisconsinyouthcompany.org, gwcymca.org) |
| Fox Valley/Oshkosh | Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh: 920-233-1414; afterschool school‑sites info online. (bgcosh.org) |
| Tri‑County Area (Berlin/Green Lake) | BGC Tri‑County Area: 920-361-2717 ext 0; site coordinators listed online. (bgctric.org) |
| Statewide | YoungStar/CCR&R parent line: 888-713-5437; ACCESS Wisconsin: apply online for Wisconsin Shares and other benefits. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, access.wisconsin.gov) |
Common costs and deadlines you asked us to verify
- YMCA Milwaukee camp weekly fees for 2025: Traditional Camp 257–257–289 per week; Specialty and STEAM 302–302–333; 30∗∗registrationfee;paymentdue∗∗10∗∗daysbeforeeachweek;latefee∗∗30** registration fee; payment due **10** days before each week; late fee **10 per week. Many sites accept Wisconsin Shares. (ymcamke.org)
- Boys & Girls Club Oshkosh afterschool school‑site daily fee: 10∗∗perdayplusannualmembership∗∗10** per day plus annual membership **25 first child ($50 family max). Accepts county assistance at some sites. (bgcosh.org)
- BGC Tri‑County Area Green Lake site: Semester afterschool fee 65∗∗perchildforages∗∗7–12∗∗;∗∗65** per child for ages **7–12**; **25 annual membership; scholarships available. Berlin site lists $200 per semester for some ages. (bgctric.org)
- Summer EBT 2025: One‑time $120 per eligible child; main issuance June 7, 2025; catch‑ups through September; 2025 eligibility cutoff August 28, 2025. Quest Card help 877-415-5154. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Free summer meals statewide: $0 cost for all kids 18 and under at SUN Meals sites; Wisconsin listed in the USDA finder updates. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Apply for help paying afterschool/camp: Wisconsin Shares via [ACCESS] or 888-947-6583 in Milwaukee.
- Find a free afterschool site: Ask school about “CLC” or “Safe Place.”
- Free meals afterschool/summer: Provided at many sites and community locations; check USDA finder.
- Summer grocery support: Watch for Summer EBT $120 per eligible child.
- Need a program that accepts Shares: Use YoungStar Child Care Finder or call 888-713-5437.
- Tax season: Keep receipts to claim federal and Wisconsin child and dependent care credits.
Application checklist
- Wisconsin Shares:
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Last 30 days of paystubs or self‑employment proof
- Child’s birth certificate if needed
- Work or school schedule if relevant
- Provider information for authorization (name, address, Provider/Location Number if Y)
- CLC or Safe Place registration:
- School enrollment confirmation
- Emergency/contact forms and any nominal fee
- Ask if the site accepts Wisconsin Shares so your fees can be covered
- YMCA camps:
- Online registration and $30 registration fee
- Request Wisconsin Shares authorization at least two weeks before your first camp week to meet payment deadlines
- Summer EBT:
- Make sure your free/reduced lunch form is approved or your family has an approved qualifying benefit on file by the deadline
Eligibility rules and how to apply
Wisconsin Shares step‑by‑step
- Step 1—Apply: Apply online at [ACCESS Wisconsin] or call your county or tribal Income Maintenance agency. Milwaukee families call 888-947-6583. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 2—Interview and verification: Submit the documents listed above. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 3—Choose a provider: Must be licensed or certified and participate in YoungStar; find via the Child Care Finder. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 4—Authorization: Tell your worker which provider and hours you need; authorizations are issued through the MyWIChildCare system. Milwaukee authorizations are handled by MECA. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 5—Pay with your MyWIChildCare card: Your monthly benefit loads to your EBT card; your family pays any copay and difference beyond the state rate. Copays are based on income and hours. Some families have $0 copays per policy. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
21st Century Community Learning Centers and Safe Places
- Eligibility: Typically open to students at the school; some prioritize students with academic need. In Milwaukee, Safe Places charge a nominal fee and most accept Wisconsin Shares. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- How to apply: Register directly with the site coordinator at your school. Many sites provide dinner or snack as part of the program at $0 cost. (mps.school)
Free meals at afterschool and summer sites
- Afterschool: Many sites serve supper/snacks through CACFP At‑Risk. Parents don’t apply; just enroll in the site’s program. (fns.usda.gov)
- Summer: Any child 18 or under can eat free at SUN Meals sites; find locations with the USDA finder or call 211. Some rural areas offer Meals To‑Go. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov)
City of Madison Child Care Assistance
- Who it helps: City of Madison residents who are ineligible for Wisconsin Shares and meet the City’s sliding‑fee rules; must use City‑accredited providers.
- Income guide examples: Family of 3 guideline 51,636∗∗annual;familyof∗∗4∗∗∗∗51,636** annual; family of **4** **62,400 annual, with partial assistance above those amounts possible. Call 608-267-4996. (cityofmadison.com)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your program for a safe‑space policy and inclusive restroom options. For youth support groups, ask school CLC staff for local LGBTQ+ partners and anti‑bullying resources; many CLCs include social‑emotional learning and family engagement activities at $0 cost. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with children with disabilities: Wisconsin Shares offers $0 copay categories for certain placements; many programs provide inclusion supports. Confirm accessibility and care plans with your provider; Madison School & Community Recreation CLCs note inclusion services. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, mostmadison.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Call 211 and ask for veteran‑focused childcare scholarships, YMCA discounts, or Boys & Girls Club fee waivers; 211 has statewide referral data and can connect you to county veteran services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Your children’s citizenship status, not yours, determines Wisconsin Shares eligibility for the child. Summer EBT will not affect immigration status. Ask for language access when applying. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a member or descendant, contact your tribe’s education department for afterschool programs and check FDPIR participation for Summer EBT auto‑eligibility. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Look for SUN Meals To‑Go and 4‑H clubs, which are low‑cost and widespread. 4‑H dues vary by county; examples include 3–3–40 per youth depending on county and club, with waivers available. (wood.extension.wisc.edu, winnebago.extension.wisc.edu, waukesha.extension.wisc.edu)
- Single fathers: All programs here apply equally; you can use Wisconsin Shares, CLCs, SUN Meals, and Summer EBT.
- Language access: Ask your agency for interpreter services; WYC and public programs offer translation on request. (wisconsinyouthcompany.org)
Real‑world pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Waiting until summer to apply for Shares: Camp weeks fill by spring. Apply and request authorizations early so the Y or provider can hold your spot without full prepayment. (ymcamke.org)
- Choosing a site that can’t accept Shares: Some school‑run programs aren’t licensed as child care. Confirm the program is licensed or certified and participates in YoungStar before you enroll. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Missing Summer EBT because there’s no FRPL form on file: CEP schools don’t collect forms. Use the DHS path for households on qualifying programs or the DPI Summer EBT application window for the next year. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Copay shock: Your copay is hourly and depends on income and hours; if your schedule changes, ask your worker to adjust your authorization so you’re not over‑authorized. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Not keeping tax records: Save provider receipts with EIN, dates, and amounts to claim federal and Wisconsin credits. (irs.gov)
Frequently asked Wisconsin‑specific questions
- How fast can Wisconsin Shares get approved: Processing time varies by county and how quickly you submit documents. Apply online and upload verifications promptly to speed things up. Use the MyACCESS app to check status. (access.wisconsin.gov)
- Can Shares cover summer day camps: Yes, if the camp is licensed/certified and participates in YoungStar; many Y camps qualify. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- What if my provider costs more than the state rate: You pay the difference plus your copay. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- Do foster or kinship families pay copays: Copays can be $0 for certain foster/guardianship/kinship situations and for W‑2 participants. Ask your worker to code the reduced copay type. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Are CLCs really free: Yes at many sites; some “Safe Places” charge a nominal fee and accept Wisconsin Shares. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- Do afterschool programs provide meals: Many do through CACFP At‑Risk; ask your site. Summer sites use SUN Meals and are always $0 to kids 18 and under. (fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- How much will Summer EBT be next year: USDA set $120 total for the contiguous U.S. for 2025; watch DHS pages for 2026 details as they publish. (fns.usda.gov)
- Who do I call in Milwaukee for authorizations: MECA’s child care line 888-947-6583 (press 1,1,2). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Do taxes help with afterschool costs: Yes—federal CDCTC and Wisconsin’s state credit can significantly reduce what you paid. Keep receipts and file Form 2441. (irs.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- How do I find camps or programs if I live far from a city: Call 211 and your county Extension office for 4‑H clubs and rural SUN Meals To‑Go sites; ask schools about bus options to licensed afterschool programs. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Tables you can skim quickly
Where the savings come from
| Benefit | Amount families can expect | When |
|---|---|---|
| Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) | $120 per eligible child | Issued June–September 2025 in WI |
| SUN Meals (summer) | $0 for each meal for kids 18 and under | June–August at community sites |
| CACFP At‑Risk Meals | $0 suppers/snacks | During school year at eligible afterschool sites |
| YMCA Milwaukee weekly camp fee | 257–257–289 traditional week; 302–302–333 specialty | Weekly; deadlines ~10 days prior |
| BGC Oshkosh afterschool | 10/day∗∗plusmembership∗∗10/day** plus membership **25 | School days |
Sources include DHS Summer EBT, USDA SUN Meals, CACFP guidance, YMCA rates, and BGC pages. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov, ymcamke.org, bgcosh.org)
Wisconsin Shares income thresholds you’ll be asked about
| Group size | 200% FPL monthly to qualify | 85% SMI monthly to remain eligible |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,525 | $5,671 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $7,005 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $8,340 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $9,674 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $11,008 |
Source is DCF’s 2025 FPL/SMI table. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
Milwaukee families—contacts you’ll actually use
| Need | Who to call |
|---|---|
| Shares eligibility | Milwaukee Enrollment Services: 888-947-6583; in‑person at 6055 N 64th St or UMOS, 2701 S Chase Ave |
| Shares authorizations | MECA: 888-947-6583 (press 1,1,2) |
| CLCs and Safe Places list | Milwaukee Recreation: 414-475-8180 |
(dhs.wisconsin.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov, milwaukeerecreation.net)
City of Madison Child Care Assistance quick view
| Family size | Annual gross income guideline for full assistance |
|---|---|
| 3 | $51,636 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
Partial assistance may be available above these amounts. Phone 608-267-4996. (cityofmadison.com)
Low‑cost enrichment if you’re rural or on a waitlist
| Program | Typical family cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4‑H clubs (county examples) | 3–3–40 per youth depending on county/club | Scholarships or waivers commonly available |
| SUN Meals To‑Go (rural) | $0 | Check the USDA finder; availability varies |
(wood.extension.wisc.edu, winnebago.extension.wisc.edu, waukesha.extension.wisc.edu, fns.usda.gov)
What to do when things hit a snag
- No openings in afterschool: Ask your school about transportation to a nearby licensed provider that accepts Shares; request an alternate authorization.
- Camp fee due before your Shares authorization is active: Ask the Y or provider for a short hold once you’ve submitted your ACCESS application and requested authorization; provide proof of application and ask about temporary scholarships.
- Funding concerns in the news: Wisconsin DPI and partners continue to monitor federal funding for out‑of‑school programs; check your local site’s notices and have a backup option in case schedules shift. (spectrumnews1.com)
Local organizations and nonprofits to know
- Milwaukee Recreation CLCs and Safe Places: School‑based afterschool across MPS; nominal fees at some sites; most accept Shares. 414-475-8180. (milwaukeerecreation.net)
- Boys & Girls Clubs: Low‑cost daily programs, homework help, enrichment; scholarships and some 21st CCLC‑funded sites. Oshkosh 920-233-1414; Tri‑County 920-361-2717 ext 0. (bgcosh.org, bgctric.org)
- YMCAs: Licensed afterschool and camps that accept Wisconsin Shares; provider numbers posted above. Milwaukee Day Camp Office 414-274-0759. (ymcamke.org)
- Wisconsin Youth Company: Afterschool and camps in Dane/Waukesha; 25% discount for FRPL families; scholarships available. 608-276-9782 / 262-547-8770. (wisconsinyouthcompany.org)
- 211 Wisconsin: One call connects you to local programs, scholarships, transportation help, and more. Call 211 or 877-947-2211. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Wisconsin Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide 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.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Accuracy and updates: Program rules, fees, and availability change. Always verify with the relevant agency or provider before you apply or pay a fee.
Security: For your privacy, use official state portals like ACCESS Wisconsin and the MyACCESS app; avoid sharing personal details by text or social media.
Not legal advice: This guide is informational and not legal or tax advice. For tax questions, consult IRS resources or a qualified preparer; for immigration questions, consult a qualified attorney.
Sources and notes
- Wisconsin Shares income rules, eligibility thresholds, verification, and application process are from DCF parent pages and handbook guidance. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- YoungStar/Child Care Finder and CCR&R contact information come from DCF’s YoungStar pages. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Milwaukee authorizations and contacts are from MECA and DHS MilES pages. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Summer EBT benefit amount, issuance timeline, deadline, and eligibility are from Wisconsin DHS and USDA. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- SUN Meals program details and site finder are from USDA FNS. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool program information and school‑year to summer transitions are from USDA and DPI Community Nutrition bulletins. (fns.usda.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
- CLC/Safe Places site information is from Milwaukee Recreation and MPS site pages. (milwaukeerecreation.net, mps.school)
- YMCA weekly camp fees and Shares acceptance are from YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee and YMCA of Greater Waukesha County pages. (ymcamke.org, gwcymca.org)
- Boys & Girls Club fees are from BGC Oshkosh and BGC Tri‑County Area pages. (bgcosh.org, bgctric.org)
- Wisconsin Youth Company tuition assistance and contact information are from WYC’s official page. (wisconsinyouthcompany.org)
- City of Madison Child Care Assistance income guidelines and contact are from the City’s program page. (cityofmadison.com)
- Wisconsin child and dependent care credit changes are from 2023 Wisconsin Act 101 and public broadcaster coverage. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, wpr.org)
- 211 statewide contact options are from DHS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
If you find outdated information or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will update within 48 hours per our editorial policy.
🏛️More Wisconsin Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wisconsin
- 📋 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
