PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Calvert Family Advocates (CFA), a local nonprofit 501(c)(3) under the MASSB Foundation, is planning to sponsor homeless and low-income children for local summer day camps for the third consecutive year.

During discussions with Calvert County Public Schools’ (CCPS) staff in 2015, the organization learned that more than 160 Calvert students qualified for equal educational opportunities under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.   “We were surprised by the number of homeless children in Calvert County and asked how we could help.   We quickly realized that the children needed support during the summer, when school is out and the children spend their days in shelters, motel rooms or doubled up with other families.   Providing these children the opportunity to attend camp for a week or two allows them to play, make friends, and have a break from the stress of homelessness,” said CFA Chair, Karen Lane.

Over the past two years, CFA has provided more than $10,000 in grant funding to CCPS which has allowed 61 children to attend summer camp or sports programs. Priority is given to homeless children, but the grant is available to support any child considered at-risk by CCPS staff. “The camp grant provides a great resource for our families who otherwise would not be able to afford summertime activities for their children.   The children also benefit from lunch provided by some of the camps, and the chance to practice team-building and communications skills that are so vital to their development,” said Catherine Krivitzky, CCPS McKinney-Vento Homeless Liaison.

“We are grateful to the many individuals and local businesses who have donated their time as well as their funds to support these children.   We also appreciate the partnerships we have formed with our local youth programs including Calvert County Parks & Recreation, the Boys & Girls Club, East John’s Youth Center and the Prince Frederick Eagles.  These organizations have patiently worked with us to address the needs of the children we are sponsoring.   It is clear they are working in the best interest of the children,” said Karen Lane.

Local businesses and residents who would like to support the program are invited to make financial donations designated to the “Summer Camp”.  Funds may also be given to general programs and services that include homeless prevention, self-sufficiency initiatives and eldercare support.   As an all-volunteer organization, nearly all contributions received will go toward programs and services to support those in need.  All donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.  Please send donations to:

Calvert Family Advocates
P.O. Box 2016
Lusby, MD 20657

Donations can also be made via the website at www.calfam.org.  Calvert Family Advocates is a component fund of the Maryland Association of Social Services Boards Foundation (MASSB), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax identification number: 26-1192752