BREAKING NEWS
Stephanie Rodriguez, Reporter
Published:
Updated:
Stephanie Rodriguez, Reporter
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – School is almost out, and many parents are beginning to think about how to keep their kids engaged over the summer.
While summer camps are a popular option in Central Florida, the cost can be prohibitive for some families, so to assist, Volusia County has opened applications for scholarships.
“Last year, we received over a thousand applications and then we were able to provide scholarships to 725 individuals,” Community Assistance Director for Volusia County Carmen Hall said. “This program is for families that are at or below 200 percent of the poverty level.”
Scholarships will be available for children, ages 5-14, from income-eligible households that reside in Volusia County. Children up to age 17 attending approved special needs camps may also be eligible.
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Scholarships are awarded per child, based on eligibility and will be awarded based on funding availability. Scholarships are awarded at $80 a week or the full amount of attendance for the chosen camp if it is lower than $80. Summer camps with higher weekly rates than $80 are still eligible, but the parent must pay the difference.
“We just ask that you attend, and we do take attendance,” Hall added.
This program alleviates financial stress for parents needing assistance during the summer months. According to data from Child Care Aware in 2023, the average cost of summer camp in Florida was approximately $2,544. Nearby states also report high costs, with Georgia averaging around $2,022 and Alabama at $1,842.
The American Camp Association emphasizes the benefits of summer camps for children, saying that these programs help develop social skills, self-respect and character.
“There’s a lot of different enrichment programs that happen at our summer campsites. It also ensures that these kids are being supervised and have fun activities to look forward to every day. It’s just a great way to ensure that they’re staying out of trouble and being supervised in a safe environment,” Hall said.
Applications for the scholarships opened today at 7:30 a.m. and are reviewed in the order they are received. These are the income limits for 2025:
For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $11,000 for each additional person. Volusia County Summer Camp Scholarships will apply to camp attendance starting 6/2/25 and running through 8/8/25.
Applicants will be required to provide supporting documents.
Click here to learn more or to apply.
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Stephanie joined News 6 as a reporter in October 2024.
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