This is a difficult situation Perpetualysad. I know you said kids in your state can be left at home alone but you said they're locked out - that's not right and I think you could call anonymously childrens services. When they say their mother is sleeping - is she a shift worker?

It's nice to be kind and helpful like you are, but summer is coming and I foresee you might be taken advantage of. What do the kids eat and where do they go to the bathroom? Sorry you're in the awkward position.