WESTFORD — Low-income families may again be eligible for subsidized summer camp programs and after-school care, which remains available through the 2023-2024 school year.
The temporary program was funded through a $30,000 American Rescue Plan Act request from the Health Department, Council on Aging and Recreation Department. The Select Board unanimously approved the funding during an April 26, 2022 meeting.
“The way we proposed it [our request] was that it could last as long funds allow. It’s [still] the original pot of money,” Regional Community Health and Wellness Coordinator Brittany Nash told WestfordCAT.
According to Town Accountant Jesse Beyer, $1,675 was spent on the program in FY22 and $9,040 was spent so far in FY23. $19,285 in funding remains available for the program.
According to Nash, 35 kids were approved for the offering in 2022. So far, 13 kids have been approved to participate in 2023.
Nash recommends families who wish to receive a free week of summer camp apply as soon as possible. The Recreation Department’s summer program runs from June 26 to Aug. 11.
The department’s after-school program begins on Aug. 30 and runs through the school year.
The program provides a free week of camp per child or a $400 cap on one week of after-school care per child for families at 300% of the federal income poverty level. Applications will be accepted on a first-come first-serve basis.
Families who participated in 2022 are invited to participate in 2023 if they meet current income requirements. Applications can be emailed to Regional Community Health and Wellness Coordinator Brittany Nash.
Residents with questions can contact Nash via email or by phone at 978-399-2564.
