A new program called One Happy Camper will offer grants of up to $1,000 for families sending their children to Jewish overnight summer camps for the first time.
The program, the result of a partnership between the S.F.-based Jewish Community Federation and the national nonprofit Foundation for Jewish Camp, is available to families living in the JCF’s service area (San Francisco, Marin and Sonoma counties, as well as the Peninsula). To be eligible, a child must be a first-time camper and not attend Jewish day school.
“Research demonstrates that Jewish camp is a proven means of building Jewish identity, community and leadership,” according to materials from the federation. “Studies found that adults who attended Jewish overnight camp are more likely to light Shabbat candles regularly, attend synagogue and feel emotionally attached to Israel.”
For more information or to determine eligibility, visit www.sfjcf.wordpress.com/2012/10/30/more-than-camp.