Summer camps are dealing with staffing shortages too

Just like so many businesses, Triangle-area summer camps are also dealing with staffing shortages.

The COVID-19 pandemic is making operations difficult for businesses and events, and now parents looking for places their children can be when school ends.

At the new Garner Recreation Center, which opened in August, the town is expanding its summer camp program for the first time ever.

The Town of Garner will offer their camp in two locations this year, but staffing for the expansion has been difficult, even after planners raised the hourly rate for staff from $8 to $11.

"We realize that's still not market," said Sarah , "You can go to McDonald's or Target, you know, and make $14 or $15 an hour, but we're hoping that little bit helps. Usually right now I'd have about 20 camp counselor applications, and I think I have seven."

With inflation, many parents are wondering if they can even afford summer camp this year.

Garner, the City of Raleigh and the Boys and Girls Club all have ways to help with financial assistance.