Children’s Trust provides over 1,000 summer camp scholarships for local children

Press release from Children’s Trust of Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. — The Children’s Trust of Alachua County (CTAC) is helping more than 1,000 children access enriching summer camp experiences, giving more than $2,000,000 in scholarships to area families.

The program provides scholarships for children ages 5 to 17 to attend one of 21 participating camps throughout Alachua County. Camp options include STEM, sports, arts, and specialized programs for children with special needs.

To qualify, families must live in Alachua County and meet at least one of the following criteria: receive SNAP benefits; have a household income below 300% of the federal poverty level (approximately $99,000 for a family of four); or have a child in foster care, voluntary formal kinship care, or under case management supervision.

On average, scholarship recipients attend camp for 23 days during the summer, providing opportunities for learning, social development, and recreation.

More than half of participating camps include literacy initiatives designed to prevent summer learning loss. Campers maintained or improved their literacy skills, increased their enjoyment of reading, and engaged more frequently in reading and writing activities.

The program also receives strong marks from participating families. According to program evaluations:

• 91% of families were satisfied with the learning activities offered at camp.
• 95% of families reported their child enjoyed their camp experience.
• 97% of families felt their child was safe while attending camp.

CTAC funding also supports staff training, equipping camp personnel with skills to maintain safe environments and respond effectively in emergency situations.

“The Children’s Trust of Alachua County is proud to invest in meaningful summer experiences that provide children with access to high-quality programs in safe and supportive environments. By helping families overcome financial barriers, we are ensuring more young people can build skills for life, develop confidence, and create positive memories that contribute to their growth and well-being,” said Executive Director of the Children’s Trust, Marsha Kiner.