Are you wondering how to keep your child busy while they are on summer break? There are free or low-cost recreation programs available in your area.
Many local parks and recreation departments and organizations provide programs and camps to keep children active during the summer in a fun and engaging way.
Find a Maryland summer camp
211 has a database of nearly 200 summer camps and resources. You can search by city or ZIP code, language, and age of the child.
This list includes Parks & Recreation programs, the YMCA and other organizations. The 211 database also includes camp resources like the Baltimore Family Alliance Summer Camp Directory, which has camps in the Baltimore area. You must provide your name and email to download the Baltimore summer camp directory.
You can also search for summer camps and verify the one you chose is licensed, with the Maryland Department of Health camp database. The Department of Health database allows you to search by camp name, license number or county.
Enrichment programs
211 also provides a list of youth enrichment programs for the summer. These may include tutoring, educational activities, academic support, and other special programs. Search for enrichment programs in 211's database.
Other supports for children
211 also has resources for children that can help with tutoring or mentoring. We also have searches for public schools. Check with your local school district to see if they have a summer program or summer school.
You can also always call 2-1-1 for help finding a summer camp or program.
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Food For School-Aged Children During The Summer
Many school districts offer healthy meals for children during the summer as an extension of the services offered during the school year. You don't need to register or provide identification to receive the food for children 18 and under.
The programs are typically at the library, school, faith-based organization, recreation center or another community partner.
Find a summer food site near you.
Summer Sun Bucks
Starting this year, there will also be a Summer EBT program known as SUN Bucks to reduce summer hunger.
Eligible families will receive $120 per child to help purchase groceries for their children during the summer when school is closed. Most Maryland families will be automatically enrolled. You don't have to apply if:
- the household receives free or reduced-price school meals
- the household participates in SNAP (food stamps), Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or Medicaid
- the children are in foster care, homeless, migrant or runaway
The program is expected to help feed 50,000 children across the state.
This is a federally funded grocery benefit. In June, July and August, families will receive $40 a month ($120 total) per eligible student. The funds expire 122 days after they are issued and can not be reissued.
Learn more about Summer Sun Bucks in Maryland.
