For children, Jewish camp is just plain fun. As adults, we know it's also much more than that. Jewish camp weaves Jewish values, culture, and traditions into the fabric of everyday life, helping campers connect to their own identity and to the larger Jewish community. With over 150 camps that specialize in everything from sports to the arts, science to outdoor adventures, waterfront activities to special needs, there is sure to be one your child will love.
 

The Rochester One Happy Camper program provides incentive grants of up to $1,800 for a child’s first trip to camp and up to $1,000 for the second year and beyond!
 

At camp, kids get the chance to explore who they are—and who they want to become—in an inspiring, fun-filled environment. Whether they’re playing basketball, ziplining or dancing with their friends, Jewish camp creates a community of campers—and young leaders—who feel sure of themselves and proud of their heritage. Click here for the eligible camp list. 
 

One Happy Camper is a program of the Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC), in partnership with Jewish Federations, foundations, and camps across North America. Our program is administered by the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester and funded by the Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation. 
 

Our Two-Tiered Approach

First-Year Campers: A Jewish Overnight Camping Incentive Program

Is your child planning to go to camp? Give your child an unforgettable Jewish summer camp experience. Incentive grants of up to $1,800 are available to first-time campers attending an approved Jewish overnight camp for 19 or more consecutive days.

Not going to camp for a whole 19 days? We still want to help you. A $1000 grant is available for first time campers enrolled in camp for 12-18 consecutive days.

We also provide grants for second year and beyond! Please enter the portal to see if you are eligible!*

*Anyone earning under 150k is eligible for extended year grants

Need More? Our Boost (Need-Based) Program Is for You

Do you have extenuating circumstances? Need more financial assistance to enable you to go to camp? Please apply for additional funding here:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for my child to receive the One Happy Camper grant?

• Registered for an overnight camp listed on the Foundation for Jewish Camp's website
• Attending an approved overnight camp for the first time for at least 12 consecutive days
• Consider themselves Jewish 
• Live in the Greater Rochester area for a majority of the year
• Entering grades 2-12 (after camp)

Can I receive financial aid from the camp in addition to a One Happy Camper grant?  
Yes. Camps maintain their own lists of scholarships and can provide additional assistance. Some synagogues may also provide grants or financial aid.

 My child has previously been to a Jewish summer camp for less than 12 days. Are they still eligible to receive the One Happy Camper grant?  
Yes!

 Can I apply for a One Happy Camper Grant for more than one of my children? 
Yes. The number of One Happy Camper grants per family is not limited.  

 When is the application deadline? 
There is no deadline for One Happy Camper grants but they are provided on a first-come first-serve basis.  

 How long will it take to be notified that my grant application has been approved? 
Please allow 4-8 weeks. Once your child’s camp registration has been confirmed, funding will be sent directly to the camp starting in late spring, continuing through the summer.

Contact Us

Marissa Barashi

Scholarship & Grants Coordinator

mbarashi@jewishrochester.org

*We ask all applicants to support the Federation’s Annual Campaign at some level.*