At the YMCA we want to make sure that all children and youth have an opportunity to benefit from a YMCA camp experience. The YMCA offers subsidies and extended payment plans to assist you if your financial circumstances would otherwise prevent you from affording summer camp.

Who is eligible to receive financial assistance?
Families whose financial circumstances make them unable to pay the full fee for their children’s camping program.

What camps can the YMCA Camps help subsidize?
YMCA can help subsidize programs at Camp Elphinstone, Camp Howdy and Camp Deka. You may apply for one session of residential camp or two sessions of day camp per child. We are unable to subsidize bus fees, family night fees or the Women’s Weekend.

Is it possible to attend Camp for free?
No. Every family must pay a portion of the fee themselves, even if they are eligible for ministry or other outside funding.

How does the YMCA determine how much I pay?
Each family needs to contribute as much as they can afford and families are welcome to make monthly payments to help manage the cost. The amount of assistance will vary depending on income and cannot be determined without going through the application process.

What if I’m already receiving subsidy from another division of the YMCA?
If you are currently receiving subsidy from another division of the YMCA, such as a membership centre, you can still apply to YMCA Camps for financial assistance. As long as the account you currently have is in good standing you will automatically be eligible to receive the same level of assistance (i.e. if you receive a 30% subsidy for membership you are eligible for a 30% subsidy for camp).

Where does the money come from?
Our subsidy program is supported by individuals, service groups and business that donate to YMCA Camps.

If I receive subsidy through the financial assistance program what is expected of me?
Applying for subsidy requires a commitment of completing your payments as determined during the application process. We must receive your fully completed application in order to process it.

If I have received subsidy from the YMCA in the past can I apply again?
Yes. It is however our goal that, if possible, you continue to contribute more towards the camp fee each year.

Is my application kept confidential?
Yes. Your application and financial documents are kept confidential. You application is managed exclusively by the Camps Registrar who will contact you once you application has been received and reviewed.

1. Complete the application form and ensure that you include proof of your family’s income.
2. Complete a camp registration form for each child including your preferred payment method (nothing will be charged to you until your application is approved).
3. You can fax or mail your completed application to YMCA Camps or you may drop the application off in person at our Vancouver office.
4. Once your application has been reviewed you will receive a call from the Registrar to discuss your payment options. This process can take between 1 to 2 weeks.