Free Summer Camps Open Across Harris County Precinct 4, Offering Families Safe, Enriching Options for Kids
As summer approaches and school doors close, many families across Houston, Cypress, Katy, and surrounding Harris County neighborhoods begin the annual search for safe, affordable childcare. This year, a new partnership is helping meet that need—offering not just supervision, but meaningful enrichment for children.
Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones, in collaboration with Precinct4Forward and the YMCA of Greater Houston, has launched a series of free Summer Day Camps for children ages 5 to 13. The programs will run from June 8 through August 7, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at three community-centered locations: Bayland, Radack, and Weekley Community Centers.
For many working families, this initiative represents more than a summer activity—it’s a reliable, no-cost solution during months when childcare options can be limited or expensive.
A Community Investment in Families and Youth
The camps are designed to provide a structured, engaging environment where children can continue learning and growing outside the classroom. Each location offers weekly sessions that include science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEM), along with sports, outdoor exploration, and character-building activities.
Participants will also receive lunch and snacks daily, helping ease the financial burden on families while ensuring children remain energized throughout the day.
At the Weekley Community Center (8440 Greenhouse Rd, Cypress, TX 77433), campers can explore hands-on STEM activities, outdoor nature programs, and leadership-building exercises in a safe setting supported by trained staff and positive role models.
Similarly, the Radack Community Center (18650 Clay Road, Houston, TX 77084) offers a mix of arts, sports, and environmental exploration, alongside team-building and life skills development.
At the Bayland Community Center (6400 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77074), children will experience a well-rounded schedule that blends creativity, academics, and physical activity, reinforcing both curiosity and confidence.
Across all three locations, space is limited, and enrollment is now underway.
Why the YMCA of Greater Houston Matters in This Effort
The YMCA of Greater Houston plays a central role in delivering these programs, bringing decades of experience in youth development and community outreach. Known for its mission to strengthen communities through programs focused on healthy living, youth empowerment, and social responsibility, the YMCA provides trained staff, structured curriculum, and a focus on character development.
Its summer camp model emphasizes more than just keeping kids busy—it aims to help them build confidence, develop friendships, and discover new interests in a supportive environment. Activities such as water safety, service learning, math games, and field trips are intentionally designed to balance fun with growth.
For families familiar with YMCA programs, this partnership extends a trusted resource into local neighborhoods—making it more accessible than ever.
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What Families Should Know Before Registering
Each camp operates on a weekly session basis and is offered completely free of charge, thanks to the partnership between Harris County Precinct 4, Precinct4Forward, and the YMCA.
Key details include:
- Dates: June 8 – August 7
- Time: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Ages: 5–13 years old
- Cost: Free (with promo codes specific to each location)
- Meals: Lunch and snacks provided
- Capacity: Limited space available
Families can register at the following locations:
- Bayland Community Center: hcp4.info/BaylandSummerCamp26
- Radack Community Center: hcp4.info/RadackSummerCamp26
- Weekley Community Center: hcp4.info/WeekleySummerCamp26
What This Means for Local Communities
Beyond the immediate benefit to families, programs like these reflect a broader investment in community stability and opportunity. Access to structured summer programming has been linked to improved academic outcomes, reduced summer learning loss, and stronger social development.
For neighborhoods across Precinct 4—including Cypress, west Houston, Katy, and surrounding areas—these camps help ensure that children have a safe place to learn, play, and grow while parents maintain work schedules and household stability.
As summer approaches, the message is clear: resources are available, and early registration is key.
Residents are encouraged to explore enrollment options soon and stay connected with My Neighborhood News for continued updates on local programs, events, and opportunities shaping the community.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.