Jewish Overnight Summer Camping


A Jewish summer camp experience can transform a young person’s life. It offers children the opportunity to build lasting friendships with Jewish peers and immerse themselves in joyful Jewish life. We want as many children as possible to have this enriching experience.

Who qualifies?

To be eligible for the Jewish Overnight Summer Camping Grant the individual must be
  • A resident of Western Massachusetts (Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties) or Southern Vermont (Bennington and Windham counties)
  • At least six years of age
  • Jewish
  • ​Enrolled as a camper at an approved overnight Jewish camp located in North America for a minimum of seven days

What types of camp qualify?

For a camp to qualify it must have and maintain status as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended (the "Code") and be classified under sections 509(a)(1) or 509(a)(2) of the Code and

EITHER be approved or sponsored by one of the five major Jewish movements (Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist or Renewal) or sponsored by a nonprofit Jewish organization or school.

OR publicly advertise itself as a Jewish overnight camp and meet two or more of the following criteria. 

  • Provide Shabbat services on Friday night and/or Saturday morning
  • Offer programs of Jewish content, such as cultural programs, Torah, Hebrew, or Israel awareness
  • Follow kosher dietary laws or provide kosher meals upon request
  • Be an approved camp by the FOUNDATION FOR JEWISH CAMP

What funding is available? 

Campers who have not previously attended an overnight camp can apply for 50% of the cost, up to $1,500. Returning campers can apply for 50% of the cost of the camp, up to $1,000.
 

How do I apply for funding? 

Completed applications must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the start of camp. Late applications will not be accepted.
Applications will be reviewed, and applicants will be notified of a decision within three weeks of submitting the application.

If approved for a Jewish Overnight Summer Camping Grant, payment will be sent to directly to the camp and your final Camp invoice will be adjusted accordingly.

Need help?

For any general questions about the Jewish Overnight Summer Camping Grant or for questions regarding the online grant system, please contact us at GTI@hgf.org
 

Disclaimer

Please note that the Harold Grinspoon Foundation reserves the right to decline any application for any reason.
 

Apply Here