South Carolina Foster Parent Association : Smart Summers, Strong Kids

The news is out! In the recent needs assessment, you told us summer programs are your number-one need for your foster children. In response, we're starting Smart Summers, Strong Kids, an initiative to:

• Help you find the best summer opportunities for your children
• Promote local capacity-building in identifying and maximizing resources
• Establish a fund to supplement summer program costs that can't be met otherwise
• Enable kids to take part in programs that can make them smarter and stronger

For more information on camps and other summer programs, see the Summer Program Opportunities database. Please share with us any information that should be added to this database; we want it to keep growing.

If you want your child to participate in a summer program but need help meeting the cost,

• First, let your worker know what you want and ask for suggestions.
• Second, with your worker's okay, approach the program director, explain your situation, and ask if the program offers free slots or reduced rates.
• Third, if you still don't have what you need, ask your local FPA for ideas on getting help for your child. (And always share information that will help other foster parents and children.)
• Fourth, if none of this has worked, fill out an application for help and get it to us by mail, or fax. Applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Please understand that funds are dependent on donations. We want to help, and we'll do anything we can.

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