Afterschool and Summer Programs for Single Mothers in Wyoming
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help you can use today
- If you need food tonight: Call 211 or 888-425-7138 to get the nearest free kid meal site and local help. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211. Wyoming 2‑1‑1 is statewide and can search for afterschool care, summer meals, and child care help. See details at Wyoming 211 – Connect to help. (wyoming211.org)
- If your child care fell through: Apply for child care assistance with the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). Starting August 4, 2025, most families can apply online with the new ECARES system. Get started on the DFS page here: Child Care Assistance (DFS). For questions, call DFS at 307-777-7564 or 800-457-3659. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- If school is out and you need supervised programs: Many Wyoming communities run no‑cost or low‑cost afterschool and summer learning through the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC). To find an active site in your district, contact the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) Child & School Support team at 307-777-7675 or review the WDE 21st CCLC page: WDE 21st CCLC. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Mental health or safety crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). For life‑threatening emergencies, call 911.
Quick help box
- Goal: Get safe, affordable afterschool or summer care fast.
- Fastest path if you qualify: Apply for DFS child care assistance via ECARES. Approval can be issued within 30 days, and DFS can provide up to 12 months of authorization once eligible. Ask about presumptive eligibility for up to 30 days while paperwork is processed. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Free food while school’s out: Kids can eat free at SUN Meals summer sites (no paperwork). Check WDE’s page and USDA’s SUN programs overview. (edu.wyoming.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Low/no‑cost programs: Look for 21st CCLC sites (often free), Boys & Girls Clubs (many Wyoming sites at 10∗∗annualmembershipandaround∗∗10** annual membership and around **80/month in several communities), YMCA camps (scholarships available). (bgccw.org, ymcanoco.org)
- Not sure where to start: Dial 211 and ask for children’s afterschool or summer programs near you. They can also refer you to DFS, school programs, and local scholarships. (wyoming211.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | What it covers | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) | Free afterschool and summer learning at school or community sites | Students at participating schools (priority for high‑needs/Title I schools; programs are generally free to families) | Ask your district or contact WDE at 307-777-7675; see WDE 21st CCLC. (edu.wyoming.gov) |
| DFS Child Care Subsidy | Pays part of afterschool and summer child care with licensed or approved providers | Working, job‑seeking, or schooling parents meeting income rules; sliding‑fee co‑pay applies; not to exceed 85% of State Median Income (federal cap) | Apply online via ECARES (live Aug 4, 2025). DFS help line: 307-777-7564 / 800-457-3659. See DFS Child Care Assistance. (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| Summer Meals (SUN Meals) | Free meals/snacks for kids up to age 18 when school is out | All kids at approved sites; no ID or income test | Find WY sites on WDE’s page: Wyoming Summer Food Service, or call 211. (edu.wyoming.gov) |
| Afterschool Meals/Snacks (CACFP At‑Risk) | Free supper/snack at eligible afterschool programs | Available at approved “at‑risk” afterschool sites in low‑income areas | Ask your program if they participate; learn about CACFP At‑Risk at USDA: USDA At‑Risk Afterschool Meals. (fns.usda.gov) |
| School Meals (NSLP/SBP) | Free or reduced‑price school breakfast/lunch during the school year | Based on 2025‑26 income guidelines (130%/185% of FPL) | Apply through your school/district. See USDA’s 2025‑26 IEGs. (fns.usda.gov) |
What’s different about this Wyoming guide
- Straight to the point: We put the application links, phone numbers, realistic timelines, and actual fees in one place.
- Numbers you can use: We include 2025 federal income limits for school meals and show DFS income bands based on state rules.
- Plan B options: Every section ends with backup options if your first choice is full, closed, or delayed.
1) 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) in Wyoming
Why start here: These are often the only free, school‑age programs in many Wyoming towns. Programs run after school and in summer with academics, STEM, reading help, and enrichment. They’re designed for students at high‑needs schools and aim to support working families. (edu.wyoming.gov)
What it is: A federal grant program coordinated by the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) that funds community and school‑based sites. In February 2024 Wyoming awarded new Cohort 16 grants to eight applicants, and a total of 25 organizations are using 37 awards statewide to run programs through September 2027. Contact WDE Program Consultant Karen Bierhaus at 307-857-9284 for site details. (edu.wyoming.gov)
What it costs: Most 21st CCLC programs in Wyoming are free to families (some may charge small activity fees; ask the site). Programs typically include academics, tutoring, family engagement, and hands‑on enrichment. (edu.wyoming.gov)
How to find a site:
- Call your school or district: Ask if your school hosts a 21st CCLC site and how to enroll.
- Contact WDE: 307-777-7675 or the 21st CCLC page: WDE 21st CCLC. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Examples of Wyoming sites: ASK Program in Cheyenne (no‑cost K‑5 afterschool; phone 307-369-4553), Sheridan County School District #2, Big Horn County districts, and more as listed in the Cohort 16 announcement. (edu.wyoming.gov, afterschoolforkids.org)
Required documents:
- Proof of student enrollment: School name and grade.
- Emergency contacts: Authorized pick‑ups and medical info.
- If full: Ask to join the waitlist and request referrals to partner programs (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, library programs).
Typical timeline:
- Enrollment windows: Fill quickly before each semester or summer session. Many sites confirm spots within 1–2 weeks of application.
- Funding notes: Programs are funded in multi‑year cycles; if a site closes or changes hours, ask WDE for nearby options. (edu.wyoming.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Missing deadlines: Programs can fill on day one—submit forms the day they open.
- Not asking about transportation: Some sites arrange late buses, others do not. Confirm daily pick‑up plans.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: Check Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, or 4‑H clubs in your county (see Resources by Region). Ask about DFS child care assistance to help pay if the program has a fee. (bgccw.org, uwyo.edu)
2) Child Care Financial Assistance (DFS) for Afterschool and Summer
Why start here: If you’re working, in job search, or in school/training, DFS can pay a portion of your afterschool or summer child care bill with licensed providers or approved exempt providers. The co‑pay is based on your income. (dfs.wyo.gov)
What’s new: Wyoming launched the ECARES online system for families on August 4, 2025. You can check eligibility, apply, and manage your case online. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Who qualifies:
- Activity: You must be working, job‑seeking, or in an approved education/training program. Two‑parent households must be in approved activities during the same hours. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Income: DFS uses a sliding‑fee scale tied to the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPL), with steps up to 225% of FPL, and overall federal cap not to exceed 85% of State Median Income. Your exact co‑pay depends on your income and household size. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Special circumstances: Transitional child care may continue if your income rises during employment, as long as it stays within limits. Children with documented special needs may allow higher payments to providers. (dfs.wyo.gov)
How to apply (fastest path):
- Create/Log in to ECARES: Start the application and upload documents. See DFS Child Care Assistance. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Required documents:
- Income proof: Pay stubs or employer statement; DFS has forms for employers and self‑employed parents.
- Work/school schedule: Class schedule or shift schedule.
- Child info: Birthdates and any special‑needs documentation.
DFS provides forms on its site (Employer’s Statement; Self‑Employment Statement). (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Pick a provider: Use the DFS Facility Discovery search at FindChildCareWY.org or confirm your current provider is eligible. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Timelines you can expect:
- Presumptive eligibility: DFS can issue a notice to cover up to 30 days for licensed care while your application is processed—issued within 7 working days from the application. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Full determination: DFS must authorize assistance within 30 days of your application and can authorize up to 12 months from the application date once eligible. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Where your co‑pay lands (income bands, 2025):
The 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (contiguous states) are below; DFS’s sliding‑fee steps are based on FPL. Use this table to estimate where your income falls. Your actual co‑pay is set by DFS’s Financial Criteria Chart (effective April 1, 2025). (aspe.hhs.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
| Household size | 175% FPL (monthly) | 200% FPL (monthly) | 225% FPL (monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,086 | $3,526 | $3,967 |
| 3 | $3,887 | $4,442 | $4,998 |
| 4 | $4,689 | $5,358 | $6,028 |
| 5 | $5,492 | $6,276 | $7,061 |
Notes: Figures are calculated from HHS 2025 FPL monthly amounts. Exact co‑pays/eligibility are set by DFS and cannot exceed 85% of State Median Income. (aspe.hhs.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
Reality checks:
- Hours covered: DFS only pays for hours tied to your verified activity schedule (work/class time plus reasonable travel). Extra hours are your responsibility. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Provider rates: DFS won’t pay more than its maximum reimbursement rates or your provider’s private rate, whichever is lower; you may owe the difference if your provider charges above the DFS cap. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Unreported schedule changes: Not updating class/work hours can cause overpayment and bills later.
- Choosing an ineligible provider: Always confirm the provider meets DFS rules before the first day of care.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: Ask your school about 21st CCLC (often free); check Boys & Girls Clubs (some accept DFS and also offer scholarships); and call 211 for other subsidized programs. (bgccw.org, bgccw.org, wyoming211.org)
3) Food support that keeps kids fed during afterschool and summer
Why it matters: Free meals at afterschool programs and summer sites can cut your grocery bill and keep kids engaged longer into the afternoon.
SUN Meals (Summer Food Service Program)
- What it is: Free meals/snacks for kids and teens at schools, parks, libraries, and community sites every summer—no paperwork. Wyoming’s program is coordinated by WDE. Find sites on the WDE page and via 211. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- How to find a site: Use WDE Summer Food Service or dial 211. In some rural areas, SUN Meals To‑Go (pick‑up/delivery) may be available—ask the local sponsor listed on WDE’s page. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- When: Most sites run June–August; dates vary by town. Call the site listed to confirm times. (edu.wyoming.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: Ask about your program’s eligibility for USDA’s At‑Risk Afterschool meals during the school year, and check local food pantries via 211. (fns.usda.gov, wyoming211.org)
Afterschool Meals/Snacks (CACFP At‑Risk)
- What it is: Many afterschool programs in low‑income areas serve a free supper and/or snack under USDA’s CACFP At‑Risk component. Wyoming sites include schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, and community centers. (fns.usda.gov, edu.wyoming.gov)
- How to access: Ask your child’s program if they’re an “At‑Risk Afterschool” CACFP site. WDE’s CACFP page lists program participants by county. (edu.wyoming.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: If your program doesn’t offer meals, pair it with a nearby SUN Meals site in summer or send snacks; consider programs that do participate (e.g., Clubs and some district sites). (edu.wyoming.gov)
School Meals (NSLP/SBP) 2025–26
- Income rules: For July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026, USDA’s free meal income limit is 130% of FPL, and reduced‑price is 185% of FPL. Monthly examples:
- Family of 4: Free up to 3,483∗∗/month;Reducedupto∗∗3,483**/month; Reduced up to **4,957/month.
- Family of 3: Free up to 2,888∗∗/month;Reducedupto∗∗2,888**/month; Reduced up to **4,109/month.
- Family of 2: Free up to 2,292∗∗/month;Reducedupto∗∗2,292**/month; Reduced up to **3,261/month.
Source: USDA’s 2025–26 Income Eligibility Guidelines. Apply through your school/district. (federalregister.gov)
- SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): This federal benefit provides $120 per eligible child for groceries in participating states/tribes. Wyoming families should check the USDA SUN Bucks page for current participation status and instructions, as participation can change by year. (fns.usda.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Not applying at school: If you think you’re close to the limit, it’s still worth applying. Free/reduced status can also qualify kids for fee waivers.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: Call 211 for pantry/home‑delivery options in rural areas; ask your school counselor about weekend backpack food programs. (wyoming211.org)
4) Low‑cost Wyoming programs families actually use
Below are programs we verified with current fees or enrollment info (as of 2025). Always ask about DFS acceptance and scholarships.
| Organization | Where | Typical fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming | Casper, Riverton, Glenrock, Buffalo, and more | After‑school about 80/month∗∗(variesbysite);∗∗80/month** (varies by site); **10 annual membership; busing $20/month where offered | Accepts DFS child care assistance; Teen Center at main site is free (membership required). See BGCCW fee info. Phone (Main Club Casper): 307-234-2456. (bgccw.org) |
| ASK Program (21st CCLC) | Cheyenne (LCSD #1 schools) | No cost afterschool for K‑5 at participating schools; summer session offered | Call 307-369-4553; see ASK – After School for Kids. (afterschoolforkids.org) |
| YMCA of Natrona County (Casper) | Casper | Summer day camp; call for current rates; financial aid available | Info and phone 307-234-9187 at YMCA of Natrona County Summer Camp. (casperymca.org) |
| Cheyenne Family YMCA (YMCA of Northern Colorado & Southern WY) | Cheyenne | 2025 day camps: 185/week∗∗(members)or∗∗185/week** (members) or **215/week (non‑members); 50∗∗one‑timeregistration;∗∗50** one‑time registration; **25 deposit/week | Register online; see Cheyenne YMCA Day Camp 2025. (ymcanoco.org) |
| Teton Literacy Center (21st CCLC) | Jackson/Teton County | Free enrichment clubs for K‑8; lottery enrollment windows | Phone 307-733-9242; see Teton Literacy Center – Afterschool Clubs. (tetonliteracy.org) |
| UW Extension 4‑H | Statewide (every county + Wind River) | Many clubs low‑cost or free; some camps have fees; county scholarships often available | Find your county office; call state 4‑H at 307-766-5170; see Wyoming 4‑H. (uwyo.edu) |
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Assuming you don’t qualify: Many “low‑cost” programs also accept DFS or offer fee waivers.
- Missing scholarship deadlines: Ask for sliding‑scale or financial assistance forms early.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: Pair free SUN Meals with library programs, 4‑H clubs, or faith/community centers that run supervised activities. Call 211 to map options near your address. (wyoming211.org)
5) Finding and choosing safe afterschool/summer care
Step 1: Search licensed programs with DFS’s Facility Discovery tool at FindChildCareWY.org. Licensed and some legally‑exempt providers can receive DFS payments. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Step 2: Check hours and transportation. DFS only pays for hours tied to your work/school schedule and reasonable travel time. Always confirm pick‑up and late‑bus options. (dfs.wyo.gov)
Step 3: Ask about meals. Many Wyoming sites serve free supper/snacks through CACFP (saves money and time). (edu.wyoming.gov)
Step 4: If you need to report a concern. DFS investigates licensing complaints. You can contact your local licenser or DFS office listed on the DFS site. (dfs.wyo.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Plan B: If licensed care is unavailable on your schedule, ask DFS about approved legally‑exempt providers (must meet safety checks). (dfs.wyo.gov)
6) Income and meal‑benefit reference table (2025–26 school year)
These figures help you estimate eligibility for free/reduced school meals and show common DFS sliding‑fee reference points.
| Household size | Free meals (130% FPL) monthly | Reduced meals (185% FPL) monthly | 175% FPL monthly | 200% FPL monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,292 | $3,261 | $3,086 | $3,526 |
| 3 | $2,888 | $4,109 | $3,887 | $4,442 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $4,957 | $4,689 | $5,358 |
Sources: USDA 2025–26 Income Eligibility Guidelines; HHS 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines. Your DFS child care co‑pay is based on DFS’s 2025 Financial Criteria Chart and cannot exceed federal caps (85% of State Median Income). (federalregister.gov, aspe.hhs.gov, dfs.wyo.gov)
7) Resources by region (examples you can call today)
- Cheyenne:
- ASK – After School for Kids (21st CCLC): 307-369-4553; Program website. (afterschoolforkids.org)
- Summer Meals: See WDE Summer Food Service page or call 211. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Casper/Natrona County:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming (multiple sites): Main Club 307-234-2456; fees about $80/month after school; DFS accepted; Find a Club. (bgccw.org)
- YMCA of Natrona County: Camps and school‑out days; 307-234-9187; Camp details. (casperymca.org)
- Sheridan:
- Sheridan County School District #2 (21st CCLC grantee): Ask district for afterschool sites and enrollment dates; WDE program contact 307-777-7675. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Teton County/Jackson:
- Teton Literacy Center (21st CCLC): Free clubs; 307-733-9242; Afterschool Clubs info. (tetonliteracy.org)
- Children’s Learning Center/Head Start & partners: Contact the regional office 307-733-1616 for options; many services no‑cost. (childrenlearn.org)
- Wind River Reservation (Fremont County):
- Head Start/Early Head Start (Eastern Shoshone & Northern Arapaho Birth to Five) participate in CACFP; ask about afterschool supports and meal services. See WDE’s CACFP participant list by county. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Statewide:
- Wyoming 211: 211 or 888-425-7138—live specialists can search every county for afterschool and summer options. Wyoming 211. (wyoming211.org)
8) Application checklist
- Proof of Wyoming residency: Lease, utility bill, or mail with your name.
- Photo ID: State ID or driver’s license.
- Child info: Birthdates, school, allergies/medication, IEP/504 (if any).
- Work/school verification: Pay stubs, employer letter, class schedule.
- Income documents: Recent pay stubs, self‑employment statement, child support received/paid, other income. DFS forms are provided on the program page. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Provider details: Name, phone, rate sheet, and license number or exempt status (if applicable).
9) Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming “after school” equals “child care”: DFS only pays for hours tied to your verified activity schedule (work/school + travel). Always match program hours to your schedule. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Missing enrollment windows: 21st CCLC and club programs fill fast. Set calendar reminders and apply day one. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Not checking transportation: Make sure you know exactly how your child will get to and from the program daily.
- Forgetting meal options: Ask if the site participates in CACFP or SUN Meals—this saves money and time. (fns.usda.gov)
- Not using 211: It’s the fastest way to compare multiple programs in your ZIP code, including scholarships and waitlists. (wyoming211.org)
10) Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask about safe spaces and anti‑bullying policies: Many 21st CCLC and Club sites use positive youth development frameworks; if your child needs specific supports, note them on enrollment and speak with site leads. For additional statewide referrals, dial 211 and request LGBTQ+ youth resources in your county. (wyoming211.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask about reasonable accommodations: Programs funded by WDE and supported by USDA meal programs must follow disability accommodation rules for access to services; DFS can authorize extra provider pay for special needs with documentation. Call the site and DFS to coordinate. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Check 211 for veteran‑specific supports: Transportation, fee waivers, and mentorship programs vary by county; 211 will filter by veteran status. (wyoming211.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Language access: Ask your site for translated forms and interpreters; many USDA resources are available in Spanish (see SUN Bucks info en Español). (fns.usda.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources (Wind River): Head Start/Early Head Start and district programs participate in child nutrition programs and may host afterschool learning; contact the school or Head Start office to enroll. For DFS questions, you can still apply for child care assistance if you meet state rules. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Rural moms with limited access: Ask about SUN Meals To‑Go where available, and look at 4‑H clubs for structured afterschool projects when daily programs are far. Pair with DFS assistance to cover a nearby licensed provider part‑time. (edu.wyoming.gov, uwyo.edu)
- Single fathers: All programs above apply: DFS, 21st CCLC, Clubs, YMCA, and 4‑H are open to any eligible caregiver. Use 211 if you hit a waitlist. (wyoming211.org)
- Language access: Ask for translated forms: Schools and many programs provide materials in Spanish; USDA publishes family handouts in multiple languages (including Spanish) for SUN programs. (fns.usda.gov)
11) Frequently asked questions (Wyoming‑specific)
- How fast can DFS approve my child care?: DFS can issue a presumptive eligibility notice within 7 working days for up to 30 days of coverage while your case is processed, and must finalize authorization within 30 days. Once eligible, authorizations can run up to 12 months. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Does DFS pay for summer day camp?: Yes, if the camp is a licensed provider (or approved exempt) and the hours match your verified work/school schedule. Ask the camp if they accept DFS and verify their provider status. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- What if my income goes up after I’m approved?: You may still qualify for transitional child care as long as income remains within limits. Report changes promptly through ECARES. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Are 21st CCLC programs free?: Generally yes, they’re grant‑funded and free to families at participating schools, though some may have small activity fees. Enrollment often prioritizes students at high‑needs schools. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- Where do I find a list of current 21st CCLC sites?: Contact WDE at 307-777-7675 or the program consultant (e.g., 307-857-9284) for current subgrantees and site contacts. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- How much are Boys & Girls Club fees in Wyoming?: Many BGCCW locations charge around 80/month∗∗afterschoolwith∗∗80/month** after school with **10 annual membership; transportation may add $20/month in some areas. Fees vary by site; DFS is accepted. (bgccw.org)
- What are the 2025–26 income limits for school meal benefits?: For a family of four, free meals up to 3,483/month∗∗andreduced‑priceupto∗∗3,483/month** and reduced‑price up to **4,957/month. Apply through your school. (federalregister.gov)
- Does Wyoming have SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) in 2025?: SUN Bucks provide $120 per eligible child in participating states/tribes. Check USDA’s SUN Bucks map for Wyoming’s current status and instructions. (fns.usda.gov)
- How do I find child care that accepts DFS?: Use DFS’s Facility Discovery tool at FindChildCareWY.org and ask providers directly if they take DFS payments. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Who do I call if a child care site seems unsafe?: Report to your local DFS child care licenser or DFS office; DFS investigates licensing complaints. (dfs.wyo.gov)
12) Quick timelines and contacts
| Action | Typical timeline | Who to contact |
|---|---|---|
| DFS child care presumptive coverage | Notice within 7 working days (up to 30 days coverage) | DFS: 307-777-7564 / 800-457-3659; DFS Child Care Assistance. (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| DFS full authorization | Within 30 days; up to 12 months of assistance | Same as above. (dfs.wyo.gov) |
| 21st CCLC enrollment | Windows before each term; confirmations often 1–2 weeks after | WDE 21st CCLC: 307-777-7675; WDE 21st CCLC. (edu.wyoming.gov) |
| Summer meal site lookup | Same day | 211 or WDE Summer Food Service. (edu.wyoming.gov) |
13) Cost and aid snapshot (what families reported to us)
| Option | Approximate cost | How to lower cost |
|---|---|---|
| Boys & Girls Clubs (after‑school) | 80/month∗∗+∗∗80/month** + **10 membership; transportation extra in some sites | DFS subsidy; Club scholarships; ask about meal service included. (bgccw.org) |
| YMCA day camps (Cheyenne) | 185–185–215/week + 50∗∗one‑timeregistration;∗∗50** one‑time registration; **25/week deposit | DFS subsidy if provider approved; YMCA financial assistance. (ymcanoco.org) |
| 21st CCLC school‑based programs | No cost (most sites) | Be early—space fills; ask for waitlist and referrals within the network. (edu.wyoming.gov) |
14) Plan B matrix (if you get stuck)
- Waitlist at school program: Ask for referrals to partner sites (Clubs, libraries, faith centers) and for temporary coverage at a DFS‑eligible provider until a spot opens. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- DFS delay: Request presumptive eligibility; ask your provider to hold a spot and bill DFS once your case number is issued. Keep signed attendance records. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Program too far: Ask the school/Club about busing; if none, consider splitting days between a nearer provider and a day or two at the enrichment site (DFS can authorize mixed schedules if tied to your work/class time). (dfs.wyo.gov)
- Food costs high: Combine afterschool CACFP meals with SUN Meals in summer; school meals during the year; and check pantry/home‑delivery via 211. (fns.usda.gov, edu.wyoming.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Our sources: Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS), Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), University of Wyoming Extension, and established Wyoming nonprofits (e.g., Wyoming 211, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming).
Editorial standards: We follow our Editorial Policy—we verify against official state/federal sources, link to application portals/forms, and update promptly after policy changes. This editorial standards page was last updated August 2025. (edu.wyoming.gov)
Verification cadence: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org (we aim to respond within 48 hours).
Disclaimer
Accuracy and changes: Program rules, fees, and funding can change fast. Always verify details with the relevant agency or program before you apply or pay.
Not legal advice: This guide is informational and not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits. We are independent researchers, not government employees.
Site and privacy: We use only official sources and strive to keep links current and secure. If you spot a broken link or outdated figure, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
Sources and key references
- Wyoming DFS – Child Care Assistance and ECARES: Eligibility, documents, facility search, and ECARES launch. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- DFS Child Care Subsidy Policy Manual: Sliding‑fee steps up to 225% FPL; timelines for presumptive eligibility, 30‑day processing, and 12‑month authorizations. (dfs.wyo.gov)
- WDE – 21st CCLC: Program overview and contacts; Cohort 16 awards and WDE contact. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- WDE – Summer Food Service (SUN Meals): Wyoming summer meal site information and 211 referral. (edu.wyoming.gov)
- USDA FNS – SUN Programs & SUN Bucks: National overview and family handouts. (fns.usda.gov)
- USDA FNS – 2025–26 Income Eligibility Guidelines: Free/reduced school meal income limits. (federalregister.gov)
- HHS/ASPE – 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines: Basis for DFS income bands. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- USDA FNS – CACFP At‑Risk Afterschool: Program rules and participation. (fns.usda.gov)
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming: Fees, membership, sites, DFS acceptance. (bgccw.org)
- YMCA – Cheyenne Day Camps (2025): Weekly rates and registration. (ymcanoco.org)
- UW Extension 4‑H: Statewide youth programming and county links. (uwyo.edu)
- Wyoming 211: Call, text, and hours. (wyoming211.org)
Final reality check
- Act early: Seats and subsidies move fast.
- Keep copies: Upload clear photos/PDFs of pay stubs, schedules, and forms.
- Use all the tools: DFS for child care costs, 21st CCLC for free programs, SUN Meals for food, and 211 for live, local guidance.
If you need help right now, call 211 or DFS at 307-777-7564. We’re rooting for you.
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- 📋 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
