While summer camp may be top of mind for many parents this time of year, it’s important to remember not everyone has the means to send their kids to a safe place to learn, grow and thrive.
The Tampa YMCA believes every kid deserves a chance to experience summer camp. As a Charity Navigator 4-star charity, we raise funds through our annual campaign to provide scholarships to those who might not otherwise be able to afford the cost of membership and programs like camp.
For example, the Suncoast Credit Union’s generous $10,000 grant will send deserving kids to camp this summer at the North Brandon and Campo Family Ys. Support from caring partners, like Suncoast Credit Union, helps the Y close the achievement gap. Kids benefit year-round from Y programs – but never is it more critical than the summer months, when kids are at greatest risk of falling behind. Studies show during the summer most students lose two months of grade level math skills. Low-income students also lose more than two months of reading achievement.
While camp keeps children engaged, kids can’t focus when they’re hungry. In partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools, the Y’s Summer Food Program helps make sure kids can enjoy free healthy meals and snacks throughout the summer. Last summer, the Tampa Y served kids over 75,000 healthy meals and 300,000 nutritious snacks. The Summer Food Program runs from May 29 until August 3 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under.
Meanwhile, our campers in Pasco County are getting extra help from a longtime supporter. The Zephyrhills Elks Lodge donates two weeks’ worth of lunches for summer campers at the East Pasco Family YMCA. The Zephyrhills Elks Lodge also donates $1,500 to the Y’s annual campaign every year.
Many thanks to Zephyrhills Elks Lodge, HCPS, Suncoast Credit Union and all our passionate donors who help hundreds of campers each summer! If you would like to help send a child to camp, please email
amanda.marshall@tampaymca.org or call 813.224.9622, ext. 1272.
Above: Ken Fabiani, the Exalted Ruler of the Zephyrhills Elks Lodge, presenting a $1,500 donation to East Pasco Family Y Center Executive Michael Cosentino.
