For many children in Greenwich, summer camp is more than arts and crafts or learning to swim. It is a place where they feel included, supported, and cared for during the long summer months when school is out and parents are working.
This summer, more local children than ever may miss out on that experience—unless the community steps in.
The Greenwich Department of Human Services (GDHS) Fund is launching its 2026 Campership fundraising campaign to ensure local children from income-eligible families can attend summer camp, despite rising tuition costs and the temporary loss of a long-standing camp partnership.
The GDHS Campership Program provides scholarships that allow children to participate in safe, enriching summer camps—experiences that promote learning, confidence, and social connection. For working parents, summer camp also provides essential childcare and peace of mind.
The Campership Program serves Greenwich families with demonstrated financial need, using established income guidelines to ensure support reaches those who need it most.
In 2025, GDHS awarded 120 Campership scholarships to children across Greenwich. Demand continues to grow, yet the cost of camp increases each year. In addition, one long-standing community camp partner that previously donated multiple weeks of camp is not operating a summer day camp in 2026, creating a greater need for philanthropic support this year.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our community partners and hopeful to work together again in the future,” said Blaise Punturo, President of the GDHS Fund.
“However, the absence of this camp’s in-kind support for 2026 means we must raise additional funds to ensure children do not lose access to these critical summer opportunities.”
Community members can help fill this gap.
Every donation—large or small—directly supports a child’s summer experience. A gift of $400 helps fund two weeks of camp, while $800 supports four weeks. Even smaller donations help us move closer to ensuring a child can enjoy a summer filled with opportunity, fun, and care.
How to Give:
Donations may be mailed payable to GDHS Fund
Attn: Campership
Greenwich Department of Human Services
101 Field Point Road
Greenwich, CT 06830
Online donations can be made at:
https://www.greenwichdhsfund.org/campership-program
With community support, GDHS can continue to ensure that every child—regardless of family income—has access to a safe, enriching, and memorable summer camp experience.