The American Camp Association (ACA) believes there is a camp for every child and every budget. ACA recommends looking for these four options when planning your camp search budget.
Look for camp scholarships. ACA supports camp scholarships indirectly with the Send a Child to Camp fund for campers in need. The ACA camp community generates a projected $216 million annually for camp scholarships. Don’t be afraid to call and ask if financial assistance is available.
Look for assistance offered from camps. Camps offer special discounts — for everything from early registration, full-season, or multiple enrollments from one family to late registration to fill an empty spot. Camps also offer payment plans and partial “camperships.” Parents shouldn’t assume their income doesn’t qualify. Ask the camp what payment or assistance program they offer. Ask early.
Look for assistance offered by other organizations. Many organizations offer financial assistance for camp. Your church or synagogue may have a fund that supports campers. If the camper’s parent(s) or grandparent(s) served or are serving in the military, there may be funds available for camp. Other civic organizations and clubs, sororities, and fraternities, may have available funds.
Look for assistance offered from the US government. Parents should inquire into whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs. If you are sending your child to a day camp, there are options for tax breaks.
Families can utilize the ACA Find a Camp tool on acacamps.org or browse memphisparent.com’s Camp Guide to see local and regional camp options.
Reprinted with the permission of the American Camp Association. ©2019 American Camping Association, Inc.