Camp is something very foreign to most refugee families. Few parents know they can send their children to camp during the summer months. Some families do not wish to separate from their kids during the summer days, but many refugee families view camp as an opportunity to enrich their children's lives (and perhaps find an alternative to childcare while they are working)!
Now is the time to help refugee families decide if they want to send their children to summer camp in 2010. It is most helpful for volunteers to discuss this option with parents of refugee children and then for volunteers to assist families with the application process if they wish to send their children to camp.
Financial aid is often available to families with limited incomes. Most camps offer scholarships on a first-come, first-serve basis.
KIDS
Boys and Girls Club, Concord, NH (Financial assistance available to those who qualify.)
http://www.concordkids.org/
YMCA, Concord, NH (Financial assistance availability unknown.)
http://www.concordymca.org/day-camps or call 228-9622
City of Concord, NH (Please ask for financial assistance recommendations.)
http://www.ci.concord.nh.us/RECREATION/concordv2.asp?siteindxbulletin=r10,01
N.H. Audubon Programs (Scholarships available.)
http://www.nhaudubon.org/programs.html
Girls Inc. (Scholarships available; for girls 6 years of age and older.)
Call 223-0087
Racquet Club (Programs from end of June through August; scholarship availability not known.)
http://www.rccofconcord.com/ or call 224-7887
Camp Spaulding (Two week overnight camp; scholarships available.)
Call 224-7479
Girl Scouts of The Green and White Mountains (Day and overnight camps for girls 6-17)
http://www.girlscoutsgwm.org/ or call 1-800-654-1270 x173
Please note that the resettlement program does not undertake camp applications as part of it's services to refugee families. However, LSS volunteers who need income information for scholarship/financial assistance purposes are welcome to contact the office at 603.224.8111. Transportation arrangements must be made on behalf of the refugee clients by the volunteers as well.
ADULTS
http://www.multiculturalfestivalnh.org/
Concord Community Garden @ NHTI (Free to families new to the program. Returning families must pay a garden plot fee of approx. $10.00. More information forthcoming.)
(photo courtesy)
