LORAIN COUNTY, OHIO — For many families, summer isn’t a break. It’s a scramble. When school lets out, children lose daily structure, hot meals, and the safety net that classrooms and teachers provide. This year, Lorain County is stepping in to help fill that gap.
At their May 6, 2025 meeting, the Lorain County Board of Commissioners approved more than $700,000 in youth-focused subgrants to help local organizations provide summer care, meals, and mentorship to children across the region.
The grants will support trusted community groups offering safe, enriching options for kids during the summer. Recipients include:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio
- El Centro de Servicios Sociales
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lorain County
- Horizon Education Centers
- Save Our Children of Elyria
The funding will provide everything from day camps and academic programs to lunch services and one-on-one mentoring, resources often out of reach for low-income families.
While exact participation numbers vary, the programs collectively serve hundreds of children in neighborhoods across Lorain County, especially those where youth services are limited and economic pressures are high.
For working parents, this support offers more than peace of mind. It can mean the difference between affordable childcare and leaving kids home alone. For children, it’s a chance to stay active, stay safe, and feel seen during the months when structure can slip away.
County leaders encouraged families to contact the participating organizations to learn about program availability or volunteer opportunities.
When school takes a break, these programs step up—offering kids stability, connection, and a place to grow. For many Lorain County families, that support makes all the difference.