HGF encourages youth in our region to attend Jewish overnight camps by making the experience more financially accessible. Support is through the Campership Incentive Program.

If the camp meets all of the eligibility requirements listed below, please complete the online application and submit it to the Foundation at least 4 weeks prior to the start of the camp session.

Who is eligible?

Youth who are current residents of our region (western MA and southern VT) and who are attending a qualifying Jewish overnight camp.

What camps qualify?

To qualify for the Campership Incentive Program, the overnight camp must meet the following criteria:

• Either: Is approved or sponsored by a JCC/Yeshiva or one of the four major Jewish movements: Orthodox, Conservative, Reform or Reconstructionist
• Or: The camp must advertise itself as a Jewish overnight camp and must meet two or more of the following criteria:

  Kosher dietary laws are observed or kosher meals are available upon request

  The camp has a Shabbat atmosphere with services on Friday night and/or Saturday morning

  The camp has programs of Jewish content such as arts and crafts, cultural programs, Hebrew and/or Israel awareness

  The camp is approved by the Foundation for Jewish Camp

See if your camp qualifies: Find a Jewish Camp.

What funding is available?

Applicants can apply for funding for a minimum of one week up to all summer at a qualifying Jewish overnight camp. First time campers can apply for 50% of the cost of camp up to $1,500. Returning campers can apply for 50% of the cost of camp up to $1,000.

Application process:

• Submit the online application at least 4 weeks prior to the start of the camp session.
• Within one week, confirmation of receipt of the application will be provided. Any problems will be identified at that time.
• The application will be processed according to the date the final payment is due to the camp and in the order in which it was received. The check will be processed 3-4 weeks prior to the date that the final payment is due to the camp. Checks will be made out to both the individual and the camp. Please make arrangements accordingly.

What if the applicant does not attend the camp?

If for any reason the applicant does not attend the Jewish overnight camp funded, the check must be returned to the HGF immediately.