The Summer Science Splash Camp is a crucial program that provides opportunities for students to learn about science and technology. However, the cost of attending an overnight residential camp can be prohibitive for many families, especially those from low-income backgrounds. To address this issue, the Community Foundation Tampa Bay has received a grant to provide scholarships to campers from such families.
The amount of the scholarship will be determined based on financial need, with some campers receiving partial scholarships and others receiving full scholarships. Currently, 32 families are benefiting from scholarship assistance, accounting for about one-third of all campers. The average partial scholarship amount for 2024 is $480, which covers more than half of the total cost of the camp, which is $799.
Kristen Rynerson ’10, conference and pre-college coordinator at Eckerd College, expressed excitement about the opportunity to offer scholarships to campers. She stated, “We recognize that the cost of this overnight residential camp is high, but being able to cut the cost of attendance for those in need brings this crucial STEM summer programming to marginalized students who would likely otherwise not have the opportunity to attend anything like it.”
The Community Foundation Tampa Bay aims to connect people and resources to create meaningful, lasting impact. Their role is to serve as philanthropic partners, connectors, and advisors to support initiatives like the scholarship program for the Summer Science Splash Camp. By providing financial assistance to students from low-income backgrounds, they are helping ensure that everyone has access to these important educational opportunities.