For more than 50 years, the Taylor Statten Camping Bursary Fund has been helping children across Canada experience the life-changing benefits of summer camp, ensuring financial barriers do not prevent young people from spending time in the outdoors.
Founded in 1972 by staff and alumni from the historic Camp Ahmek and Camp Wapomeo, the volunteer-run charity was created with the belief that camp can play a formative role in a child’s life by building confidence, leadership, teamwork and resilience.
Since its inception, the fund has supported more than 2,000 camping summers for children and youth who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to attend camp. Each year, approximately 75 to 85 campers receive financial assistance through the program.
The bursary fund works through a three-way partnership involving the charity, participating camps and families. Accredited camps reduce their fees, the fund covers much of the remaining cost and families contribute what they can afford.
The organization supports children between the ages of 11 and 16 who demonstrate financial need and leadership potential. Campers may continue receiving assistance for multiple summers if they remain eligible, helping provide continuity and long-term growth opportunities.
According to the organization, the demand for support has increased significantly in recent years. The fund now distributes roughly $150,000 annually in bursaries, while maintaining a commitment to ensuring no eligible camper is turned away.
Organizers say camp experiences often leave lasting impacts on participants, helping young people develop independence, confidence and meaningful relationships while fostering a connection to nature. Testimonials shared by families describe dramatic improvements in children’s maturity, health and self-esteem after attending camp through the bursary program.
The charity partners with accredited camps across Ontario and other provinces, including camps affiliated with the Ontario Camping Association and the Canadian Camping Association.
Despite distributing tens of thousands of dollars annually, the fund remains entirely volunteer-run, allowing approximately 95 per cent of donations to go directly toward bursaries.
Fundraising efforts include alumni hockey tournaments, camp auctions, art shows and community events, all aimed at helping more children attend summer camp.
Named in honour of pioneering Canadian camp leader Taylor Statten, the organization continues to build on a century-old belief that time spent at camp can shape young people into stronger, more confident and more connected members of their communities.
More information about the initiative and how to apply for next year is available HERE.
Don’t miss out on Doppler!
Sign up here to receive our email digest with links to our most recent stories.
Local news in your inbox so you don’t miss anything!
Click here to support local news
TSC in Algonquin is where I went to camp as a 12 year old. It changed my life in all of the most positive ways. While I was not a bursary camper I ended up spending 4 years as a camper and 7 years on staff. I also served as a founding director of the TSCBF. There are many camps now included in this program so there is something for everyone. I encourage everyone to check it out for summer 2027. Camp is the BEST!