TOPS: Requirements

All Lewiston public school students currently in grades 3-6, between the ages of 8-13 qualify for the TOPS scholarship program. TOPS provides up to $800 to third and fourth graders and up to $1,000 in scholarships to fifth and sixth graders to attend a Maine Summer camp of their choice.

TOPS: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I sign up for the scholarship?
A: The applications will be passed out at your school by the end of February. If the applications have already been passed out and you didn’t get one you may request one from the Principal’s Office. Fill out the application and return it to the office at your school. The school will forward all applications to the United Way of Androscoggin County.

Q: What do I do with the voucher?
A: After the application form has been filled out and processed, you will receive a letter and voucher. Fill out the TOPS voucher and return the white copy to the United Way of Androscoggin County, the yellow copy is for you to keep for your records and the pink copy goes to the selected camp. The voucher will take care of payment up to $1,000 of the camp’s tuition. The voucher can only be used at one camp, but for multiple sessions of that camp.

Q: How do I sign up for a camp?
A: Once accepted into the program, take your time and choose a camp that will best suit your child.  When the camp has been selected, fill out the camp registration form and send it to the camp. 

Q: What camp should I choose?
A: It’s important to know your child’s personality and identify what camp program will benefit him or her the most. When looking at camps, include your child in the decision-making process. By working together, you and your child will find a camp experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.

For additional information on how to ensure a positive summer camp experience for you and your child, we encourage you to visit the following web sites:

American Camping Association
www.acacamps.org

Maine Youth Camping Association
www.mainecamps.org