The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the lives of children and youth, causing disruptions in their education, social interactions, and overall well-being. To address these challenges, the ESSER III 1% set aside for Summer Enrichment funding will again be available to increase access to summer enrichment programs specifically designed to support those most affected by the pandemic.
Purpose of the Grant:
The primary goal of this grant is to enhance access to summer enrichment programs that directly address the social, emotional, health, and well-being needs of young individuals disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant aims to eliminate barriers based on geography, socio-economic factors, demographics, and the effects of COVID-19. Additionally, it seeks to ensure increased access to summer programs for children and youth with disabilities and other traditionally marginalized populations.
Eligible Entities:
Various organizations and entities are eligible to apply for this grant, allowing a diverse range of program providers to participate. Eligible entities include, but are not limited to:
- Community-based organizations (CBOs) such as YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, other 501c3 organizations, etc.
- Faith-based organizations offering a non-religious summer enrichment program
- School districts and institutions of higher education operating summer enrichment programs
- Local government entities such as parks and recreation, housing authorities, etc.
- Legally operating child-care centers
- Properly documented summer recreation businesses
Summer enrichment providers may choose from two ARPA Summer Enrichment Grant opportunities:
- Option 1) The “enhancement” option allows existing summer programs to apply for up to $10,000 per site to start, expand, or improve/enhance the content, quality, and/or staffing so that children impacted by the pandemic have additional opportunities to address their social, emotional, health, and wellbeing needs in a safe and secure summer enrichment environment.
- Option 2) The “program implementation” option is a more traditional grant opportunity and allows for higher funding levels per site to accommodate the startup, expansion, and/or ongoing operation of summer enrichment programs that improve the availability and affordability of summer enrichment for students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Support in this category would range from $1,000-40,000 per site.
Application Dates:
The application window will open January 16, 2024, with reviews starting February 1, 2024. Reviews and approvals will occur on a rolling basis with the application window closing on March 15, 2024. Additional windows may be opened depending on the amount of remaining funds not yet allocated.
For more information about this funding opportunity, please review the full guidelines in the 2024 Summer ARPA Grant Guidance document and the 2024 FAQ document.
