The YMCA has had a summer camp program for about 130 years, according to its website. About 80 percent of YMCA branches have summer camps, which are situated throughout the United States. Some camps are coed while others are strictly for boys or girls. These summer camps offer scholarships to families who have trouble paying for a membership, summer camp or other programs.

YMCA of the Shoals

The YMCA created the Financial Assistance Scholarship Program to make its programs, including summer camps, available to everyone. The scholarship is awarded on a sliding fee scale. Parents can inquire about the scholarship if they demonstrate a financial need or if their financial status changes. Only those who are members of the YMCA Shoals can apply for this program. Those interested must contact the office about attaining membership of the scholarship program.

E. Stanley Robbins Branch 2121 Helton Drive Florence, AL 35630 256-766-4652 ymcashoals.org

YMCA Camp Widjiwagan

Because of donors, this YMCA offers scholarships first-come, first-served. Families need to have the following information available to apply for the scholarship: the camp scholarship application, their most current tax return and the camp registration form. A deposit is not required for registering for camp if you are applying for the scholarship program. Interested parents and guardians can download the application on the YMCA Widjiwgan website.

YMCA Camp Widjiwagan Attn. Debbie Logsdon 3088 Smith Springs Road Nashville, TN 37013 ymcacampwidjiwagan.org

The YMCA of Saratoga

This YMCA tries not to deny anyone a membership or program services because of financial hardship. Both the annual support campaign and We Build People help fund this scholarship. Grant writing also helps to create resources for individuals, families and children in the community. The eligibility requirements for the scholarship program include living in the Saratoga, New York, area and having low-income, working parents. The YMCA can grant scholarships for one program session or up to one year’s membership.

Saratoga Springs Branch 290 W. Avenue PO Box 4610 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-583-9622 ymcasaratoga.org

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