Assistance is available to pay for Chicago Park District’s summer programs

The Chicago Park District is offering financial assistance to thousands of children citywide to attend its summer day camp programs, using a summer safety surplus grant from the city.

Eligibility is based on income, and the information submitted is kept confidential.

Applicants must provide proof of entitlement for the reduced or free lunch program from the student’s school. Applicants who don’t participate in the school lunch program can prove eligibility by providing income verification (i.e., 2012 recent pay stubs for last 30 days, AFDC/TANF case number, copy of a recent IRS 1040 form, etc.).

Applicants must bring copies of the required documents to their desired park by Monday, June 11 during normal park hours.

The Chicago Park District has limited funds available to help families who qualify and wish to enroll in the summer day camp program. Financial assistance is only available to city of Chicago residents, and awards cannot be used in conjunction with any other reduced/voucher programs.

Applicants who do not qualify for financial assistance may inquire about the payment plan option at their local park.

Each summer, the Chicago Park District provides more than 30,000 campers ages 6 to 12 with a season of supervised activity at more than 230 local parks. Children will go on field trips; explore nature, arts and culture; engage in sports and recreation; and enjoy pool time.

Summer day camp hours vary for each location with typical camps running about six hours per day from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. or 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Many parks offer early morning and late-day sessions as well. Fees vary depending on location, offerings and hours.

Standard day camps run for six weeks from June 25 to Aug. 3.  For more information, contact your local park, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-742-PLAY.

Click here to read about how to register for day camps and to find available programs in your neighborhood.