A Place at Camp, A Home in Jewish Community

There’s a reason summer camp is such a strong tradition in Jewish communities, and it’s about more than cabins and campfire songs. For Jewish children who may not often see their culture or identity reflected in the world around them, camp makes it part of daily life. It helps them feel seen and connected in ways that last long after the summer ends.

Bringing More Kids to Camp

That kind of experience shouldn’t depend on a family’s income. Yet today, the cost of camp puts it out of reach for many, and an estimated 5,500 campers don’t return the next year because it’s too expensive. At the same time, demand is growing – especially among families facing hardship or feeling disconnected from Jewish life.

Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC) is expanding tuition assistance so more children can attend camp, regardless of income, background, or location. FJC supports more than 300 camps across North America, serving nearly 200,000 children each year. By reducing financial barriers, FJC is helping thousands more children build friendships, connect with Jewish life, and feel like they belong.

Impact That Goes Beyond Summer

The outcomes of Jewish camp speak for themselves:

• 96% of families say camp created a space where their child was proud to be Jewish.
• 94% of families say overnight camp helped their child feel part of the broader Jewish community.
• 92% say camp strengthened their child’s Jewish identity.

Many alumni say camp was where they built their strongest friendships and felt a deeper connection to Jewish life. It gave them a sense of confidence and belonging they carried with them.

Stronger Community Starts Here

With support from FJC, more children are gaining access to a place where they feel connected to their identity and proud to be part of Jewish life. It’s more than making summer memories – it’s investing in the future of Jewish community, one camper at a time.