LET KIDS BE KIDS!

For over 25 years, Project Avary has provided long-term mentorship, leadership development, and community for youth impacted by parental incarceration. When young people have consistent support, meaningful opportunities, and a sense of belonging, they can heal from trauma, develop confidence, and build the skills they need to shape their own futures.

Summer camps for children of incarcerated parents provide safe, trauma-informed environments where kids can heal, build community with peers facing similar challenges, and just enjoy being children. Several specialized programs offer scholarships or fully free experiences to support these families.

• Angel Tree Camping: Run by Prison Fellowship, this nationwide initiative provides scholarships for children to attend Christian overnight and day camps. Camp leadership receives trauma-informed training to support these youth.

• Camp Hope: Based in Atlanta, Kidz2Leaders hosts this free, five-day overnight summer camp for children of incarcerated parents. The program focuses on building trusting relationships, community, and teaching Christian principles in a fun, supportive setting.

• New Day Camp: Hosted by Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (CJAMM), this camp provides a free week of summer fun, counseling, and healing activities for children ages 8 to 14. It includes transportation assistance and offers teen leadership training for ages 15 to 17.

• Camp Reunite: While operating regionally in places like Wisconsin, this camp provides a unique experience for children to participate in typical camp activities while also arranging safe visitations and family reunification support at nearby correctional facilities.