Scholarships can get kids to summer camp without breaking bank

Summer camps can be expensive, but parents don't have to break their bank accounts to send their kids.

Camp scholarships can cut fees down or eliminate them altogether. Some organizations and local governments like the City of Raleigh say they are trying to make it more affordable for families in need.

"For working parents, it's a huge expense," said WRAL's GoAskMom Editor Sarah Lindenfeld Hall. "You can spend $200 to $300 a week, and if you have multiple kids, then you are trying to fill up 11 weeks of summer camp (and) that turns into a lot of money."

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Cameron Honour, a teacher in Raleigh, says summer activities like these camps are crucial.

"The summer camp experience is an important part of a child's upbringing and development," Honour said. "It's important for their socialization and for them to gain basic skills that are not always practiced while they are sitting down all day in the classroom."

Scholarship winners will be selected based on need. If your child isn't picked, Hall said to keep trying. Places like the YMCA also offer scholarships for kids every year.

The City of Raleigh will cover the cost of one week of camp for the 100 kids they select. Applicants do not have to be Raleigh residents to be considered for the scholarships.

Applications are open from now until April 20.