Summer Programming Update
Readiness To Learn will not be offering SummerFun camps this year. RTL aims to address service gaps for children and families in our community. While SummerFun provided unique opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic, several accessible summer camp programs have since been established. Based on community assessment and reviewing our data, our focus has shifted toward connecting families with the many other quality camp opportunities in our community that offer scholarships and discounts.
Discover Great Local Camps
South Whidbey Community Center Campus Partners: Many campus neighbors who previously partnered with RTL now offer their own programs—for example, The Backyard, Tiger Martial Arts, Whidbey Children’s Theatre, and The Learning Labs. The Community Center has a comprehensive new website; this page will be updated as additional offerings become available-check it out!
Youth Of Color Collective (YOCC) Summer Camp: Pamoja Place is again offering its free Youth Of Color Camp. This program typically runs for three weeks and includes activities such as robotics, gardening, cultural exchange, and weekly field trips. For more information or to register, please email pamojaplaceyoc@gmail.com.
Heartfield Learning Collective: A former SummerFun partner, this collective offers outdoor learning with an emphasis on community and inclusion. They utilize a sliding scale for tuition to ensure accessibility for various age groups. Please visit their website for registration details.
YMCA Camp Casey offers a variety of summer programming, including overnight and day camps. Certain options include a pickup service in Freeland, which minimizes travel to Coupeville. Camp Casey, now in its first full summer of operation under YMCA ownership, is offering a comprehensive summer schedule featuring overnight camps, day camps, and various programs. For convenience, some programs include a pickup service in Freeland, reducing the need to drive to Coupeville.
Financial Resources for Families
Healthy Island Youth Initiative (HIYI) Scholarships: These scholarships are a wonderful way to help your child pursue their passions—whether it's art, music, robotics, or traditional sports. They can help cover fees and equipment so that cost is never a barrier. If your family qualifies for Free or Reduced lunch, you likely qualify for this support! Just remember to apply and secure your funding before making any payments.
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): Qualifying families can receive a permanent, nationwide food benefit of $120.00 per eligible child this summer to help with groceries. Benefits are often mailed automatically if you receive TANF or SNAP, or qualify for free and reduced lunch. If you haven't filled out the Free and Reduced Lunch application (the "CNEEB") this year, now is a great time to do so on the SWSD website to ensure you receive your card. You can also fill out this online application, even if your child is homeschooled or doesn’t attend public school.
Working Families Tax Credit: You could receive up to $1,330 back for the 2025 tax year! This is a simple application process, and you can even apply for previous years if you missed them. Check your eligibility today at workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov.
Support Our Year-Round Mission
While we aren't hosting SummerFun, our year-round mission to support students and families continues by connecting them to vital community resources and financial aid.
Your support sustains essential programs like Back-To-School and Holiday House, helping every local child thrive.
Please consider making a secure online donation today to support our ongoing efforts.
We wish you and your family a wonderful, joyful summer!
