The Growing Divide and Soaring Cost of Summer Camps

July 26, 2024

The Los Angeles Times recently published an insightful article that rings true for so many working families. Among the rising costs of inflation is the very real struggle that parents face trying to find quality, affordable care for their children during the summer.

Too often, summer camps offer limited hours that don’t align with a working parent’s schedule, and they come with a huge price tag. The average weekly day camp in California is a staggering $530 per child.


Finding viable options can feel nearly impossible for families with modest means and can be gut wrenching for those falling below the poverty line.


Thanks to our community of champions and supporters, the Boys & Girls Club of San Marcos is able to fill a critical gap that helps our youth thrive and gives parents have peace of mind. Strong families build strong communities, and when we support our youth by investing in their development, we all thrive together.

Sponsor a Youth at Camp

To ensure that all youth have access to a safe and fun summer program, our Club offers camp scholarships. You can make a meaningful difference this summer by sponsoring a youth for a week at summer camp. Scholarships help ease the burden for working families, and our programs provide a positive and lasting impression on our youth as they grow in their confidence, leadership, and character.

I want to help!

Spread the Word

There are still three more weeks of summer for our San Marcos youth, and you may know someone looking for a fun and affordable camp for their kids.


Our weekly summer camps offer:

  • Flexible drop-off and pick-up hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Engaging and fun activities that change with each week’s theme
  • Outdoor games, water play, and friendly competition in our Games Room
  • Optional field trip add-ons to the Wave, laser tag, bowling, Cinepolis, and more
  • Caring and consistent staff trained in wellness, first aid, and youth safety

… all at the affordable price of $135 a week! (yes, you read that correctly: $135)

Looking for more ways to help? Join us for:

Flapjacks for Backpacks
Saturday, Aug. 3 from 7-11 a.m.

Featuring a pancake breakfast fundraiser, backpack & supply distribution, and resource fair. Buy your tickets now to support youth scholarships!

Annual Auction
Saturday, Oct. 5 starting at 5 p.m.

Boogie on back to 1979 with our disco-inspired gala as we celebrate 45 years of youth impact. Reserve your table or tickets today!

Volunteer with our Club

Make a positive difference as a Club volunteer. Work with youth, help with special projects, share your expertise, or support us behind the scenes. Contact Ashley, our amazing Events & Volunteer Coordinator, to learn more at ashley@boysgirlsclubsm.org.

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