A graduate of United Way’s KinderCamp program gives high-fives at his graduation last summer. United Way is accepting applications for this summer's program. Photo courtesy of United Way

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - West Sacramento children entering kindergarten this fall who have not attended preschool are invited to apply for United Way California Capital Region’s KinderCamp school-readiness program this summer.

Applications are now open for the West Sacramento program, which will take place at Riverbank Elementary School from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 12 to July 18. Riverbank Elementary School is at 1100 Carrie St., West Sacramento.

“We know that kids who are prepared for kindergarten are more likely to succeed in school, yet the U.S. Department of Education says six out of 10 children across the country are not prepared for kindergarten,” said Edward King, chief of programs, United Way California Capital Region. “Our KinderCamp program helps set children up for success in kindergarten, both academically and socially, and we are proud to have made a meaningful impact for our children in West Sacramento through this initiative.”

Running in classrooms at elementary school sites in Woodland and West Sacramento each summer, KinderCamp gives students the opportunity to participate in a variety of learning opportunities focused on increasing skills in math, literacy, social interactions, problem-solving, and cause and effect.

Every day a child attends, they return home with a new book. Children also receive a healthy lunch, participate in a weekly Kids Farmer’s Market and receive hygiene education. Each child then participates in a graduation ceremony.

The program is a partnership between United Way California Capital Region, Washington Unified School District, Woodland Joint Unified School District and YMCA of Superior California and has served nearly 1,000 children. 

United Way California Capital Region covers Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. 

For more information and/or to apply for the KinderCamp, visit yourlocalunitedway.org/our-work/youth-opportunity/kindercamp/.