05/24/2021
Information Memo
Summary:
- Children's summer camp fees may be paid for eligible TANF customers through a contract with the American Camping Association.
- Downstate TANF cases were mailed Send Your Child to Summer Camp Flyer.
- TANF customers can call 1-866-KID CAMP (1-866-543-2267) beginning 05/03/2021 to find out about camping possibilities for their children.
- TANF customers can apply online at www.acail.org/idhs.
Contract with American Camping Association
The Illinois Department of Human Services has a contract with the American Camping Association. Under this contract, the camp fee for eligible TANF customers may be paid.
Camping Notice
Downstate:
The American Camping Association provides a notice to inform TANF customers who reside outside of Cook County about this opportunity. Downstate TANF cases with children were mailed Send Your Child to Summer Camp flyer on April 6, 2021. Information about this flyer can be viewed at http://www.acail.org/idhs.html.
Cook County:
Although camping slots in Cook County exist, those slots tend to fill quickly even without the benefit of a notice to customers. To avoid raising the hopes of a large number of TANF parents and their children for whom a camping spot may not be available, the Send Your Child to Summer Camp flyer was not mailed to clients who reside in Cook County.
Phone Numbers to Inquire about Camping Opportunities
TANF customers may call Toll Free 1-866-543-2267 (1-866-KID-CAMP) beginning 05/03/2021.
Online Referrals
TANF customers may also visit online at www.acail.org/idhs to complete an online form to request a referral. This method requires the TANF customer to have an email address. The online referral form may be completed from a computer or mobile device.
[signed copy on file]
Grace B. Hou
Secretary, Illinois Department of Human Services
