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An 8-week summer camp is now free for 150 kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County thanks to funding by the Jules L. Plangere, Jr. Family Foundation.

“Through the generosity of the Plangere Foundation, the Club is able to provide high-quality summer learning experiences to children who otherwise wouldn’t have access to them,” Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Douglas Eagles said in a written statement. 

The Summer by the Sea Day Camp, administered in Asbury Park, features academic enrichment, swim instruction, life skills classes, group projects, and field trips. This year the low cost program is being funded by a $200,000 grant, officials said.

“Unfortunately, for many families it’s difficult to find affordable options for summer programming,” Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Doug Eagles said in a written statement. “Although the Club has always offered camp at a heavily discounted rate, well below actual costs, every year many families cannot afford to participate. Without summer learning opportunities many kids risk falling behind in school and find themselves without consistent guidance and support during summer break.”

The private nonprofit has a mission to empower young people, particular those who are most in need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

The Boys & Girls Club serves more than 1,800 youth in its two facilities, located in Red Bank and Asbury Park.

For more information on the summer camp and other programs, email Isiah Jones at isiah@bgcmonmouth.org or visit  www.bgcmonmouth.org.

[Photos courtesy of the Boys & Girls Club]

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