At Camp Jewell YMCA, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the magic of summer camp, regardless of their family’s financial situation. For generations, we’ve welcomed campers from across Connecticut, New York, and beyond thanks to our commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and community support.
That’s why we offer flexible payment plans and a simple online financial aid process designed to make camp possible for everyone. Here’s how it works.
1. Flexible Payment Plans
We know that paying for camp all at once isn’t easy, so we’ve created payment options that make budgeting simple.
How It Works:
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Secure your camper’s spot with a deposit.
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The remaining balance is divided into equal monthly payments, automatically charged up to May 1, when the balance is due.
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Payments can be made by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express through our secure online registration system.
Why Families Love It:
✅ Predictable, easy monthly budgeting
✅ Automatic reminders and receipts
✅ Helps secure your camper’s spot early before popular sessions fill up
2. Financial Aid Made Simple with Tier 4
Our Financial Assistance Program ensures that no camper is turned away due to financial barriers. Camp Jewell’s financial aid is built right into our Tiered Pricing System, which allows families to choose the rate that best fits their financial needs.
If you’d like to apply for financial assistance, here’s how it works:
How to Apply for Financial Aid (Tier 4):
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Register Online Using Tier 4 Pricing.
During online registration, select Tier 4, which automatically begins the financial aid process. -
Complete the Online Financial Aid Form.
You’ll be prompted to submit supporting information securely online to help our team review your request. -
Receive Your Award Offer.
Once reviewed, you’ll receive a personalized financial aid offer via email. -
Accept or Decline.
If you choose to accept the award, your registration is confirmed.
If you decline, your deposit will be fully refunded, no questions asked.
Our Goal: To make the process easy, transparent, and respectful, because we know asking for help shouldn’t be complicated.
3. Understanding Tiered Pricing
Camp Jewell YMCA uses a Tiered Pricing Model to make camp accessible while sustaining program quality.
Each family selects the tier that best matches their budget — and every camper receives the same high-quality experience, no matter which tier they choose.
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Tier 1: Reflects the full cost of camp operation.
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Tier 2 & 3: Subsidized by generous donors and the YMCA Annual Campaign.
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Tier 4: Reserved for families applying for financial assistance.
This model helps maintain fairness and allows families to contribute according to their ability, while keeping camp open to all.
4. Tips for Applying for Financial Aid
✅ Apply early. Financial aid is limited and awarded on a rolling basis.
✅ Be honest and complete. Accurate information helps us review applications quickly.
✅ Combine options. You can use both financial aid and a payment plan together for the easiest path.
✅ Stay in touch. Our team is happy to answer questions and help you through the process.
5. Community Support Makes It Possible
Camp Jewell’s financial assistance program is made possible by the generosity of alumni, donors, and community partners who give to our Annual Campaign each year.
Every contribution helps another child experience camp — building confidence, leadership, and belonging that lasts a lifetime.
If you’d like to give back or pay it forward, you can donate directly to support scholarships for future campers.
If you’re thinking about joining us for our 125th anniversary summer in 2026, now’s the perfect time to apply for aid or set up a payment plan that fits your family’s needs.
Let’s make this summer the one your child will never forget.
