Summer 2025 Guide: Camps and Meal Assistance
When school is out for the summer, many families face the difficult task of finding reliable childcare, affordable enrichment opportunities, and consistent access to meals. Whether you’re navigating work schedules, tight budgets, or limited program availability, it can be a challenge to fill those long summer weeks with safe, supportive options for your kids.
To help, we’ve compiled a guide to local summer camps, childcare resources, and meal assistance programs available in and around Lawrence, Kansas. From fun and educational camps to free meal programs, these resources are here to support your family this summer.
Summer Camps in Lawrence
1. Lawrence Parks & Recreation Camps
The City of Lawrence’s Parks, Recreation, and Culture Department provides an extensive selection of summer camps catering to children aged 6 to 12. These camps are designed to keep kids active, foster learning, and encourage social interaction throughout the summer months.
2. Lawrence Arts Center Camps
The Lawrence Arts Center offers weekly themed visual arts camps for ages 6-12, running from June 2 to August 8. Morning and afternoon sessions are available, with options for full-day participation.
3. Limestone Community School Summer Camps
Limestone Community School provides camps for children ages 5-12, featuring activities divided by grade level. The camp day runs from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with breakfast, lunch, and snacks included. Aftercare is available until 5:30 PM for an additional fee.
4. KU Sports Skills & Physical Activity Camp
Designed for students entering grades 3-6, this camp focuses on developing sports skills and physical fitness through activities like basketball, soccer, and volleyball.
5. KU School of Engineering Summer Camp
For older students interested in engineering, KU offers two separate, overnight, weeklong camps each July. These camps provide hands-on engineering experiences and exposure to KU’s engineering facilities.
Summer Meal Assistance
Administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families, SUN Bucks provides a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible child to help families buy groceries during the summer months.
If a child’s household did not receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 regarding SUN Bucks eligibility, they can apply through the DCF self-service portal at dcfapp.kees.ks.gov
Applications for 2025 SUN Bucks must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Aug. 29, 2025.
2. USD 497 Summer Meal Program
Free Lunches: Lawrence Public Schools offers free summer meals for children ages 1-18. In-person free lunches will be offered three days out of the week in June, according to the district’s website.
3. Catholic Charities Kids Summer Food Program
This program provides free meals funded by the USDA to children and teens up to age 18, aiming to serve even more meals this year with the help of volunteers.
For more information on these programs and to explore additional resources, parents can visit the Lawrence Kids Calendar or contact the respective organizations directly. Ensuring your children have a fun, safe, and nourishing summer is within reach with these local opportunities.
The Best Care from Day One
We exist to provide quality and compassionate health care to all children & adolescents in Lawrence and surrounding areas – focusing on integrated, patient-centered care.
As part of the Heartland Community Health Center Family, Panda Pediatrics accepts all patients regardless of income or insurance status.
We’re there when you need us, we have a physician on call 24-hours-a-day and a nurse triage line for all of your questions.
Call (785) 842-4477 to schedule an appointment