CONCORD, NH — Today, the New Hampshire Department of Education launched its fourth year of ReKINDling Curiosity – a program that encourages and provides financial assistance so that every child can experience the benefits of a fun and engaging summer camp adventure.
“Children are inherently curious, and it is our responsibility to help nurture them and offer them opportunities to explore, be creative and experience the best of what childhood has to offer. If children have the ability to play outside, make a friend or climb a tree this summer, when they return to school in the fall they are going to be refreshed, and we will have rekindled that curiosity,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. “I am grateful to all of the participating camps that have stepped forward to support New Hampshire children throughout this program.”
In its fourth season, ReKINDling Curiosity provides camp scholarships to eligible children and their families so they can attend a participating summer camp. Since 2021, the program has awarded more than $1.9 million so that 3,529 children could enroll in a New Hampshire-approved summer program.
“We are thrilled that the New Hampshire Department of Education is continuing the ReKINDling Curiosity program,” said Diane Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive Officer of The Boys & Girls Club of Manchester. “These scholarships provide families access to essential programs, offering children the chance for impactful summer experiences. Our Club families greatly appreciate and benefit from this initiative.”
Understanding that some children experience anxiety, stress and uncertainty, camp counselors are offered mental health training to assist with children’s mental health needs during summer camp hours.
“The New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association is excited to launch our fourth consecutive summer of partnership with the New Hampshire Department of Education and the statewide summer camps. The presence of our Community Mental Health Center teams is a critical element to meeting the needs of our children in a timely way,” said Roland Lamy, Executive Director of NHCBHA. “This alliance has proven instrumental in addressing mental health concerns for children and families, making a profound impact that resonates throughout our communities.”
Using federal COVID-19 response funds, students with a disability are eligible for up to $750 in covered camp fees. Other students are eligible for up to $600 in covered camp fees, depending on the family’s level of income. This year, more than $1.5 million is available in scholarship awards. For more details on the program, or to apply, visit ReKINDling Curiosity. An informational video is also available.