Recreation Financial Assistance Programs

The City of Rockville believes that everyone—regardless of income, age, or background—should have the opportunity to participate in recreation and childcare programs that enrich lives and build community. The Recreation and Parks Department offers a wide range of affordable, high-quality programs, and is committed to removing financial barriers through assistance programs like the Youth Recreation Fund and Senior Assistance Fund.

These funds help individuals and families participate in many of Rockville’s signature offerings, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Montrose Discovery Preschool: Our licensed preschool provides a nurturing and engaging early childhood education, helping children develop social, emotional, and school-readiness skills in a supportive environment.
• Summer Camps and After-School Programs: From sports to science and the arts, our youth programs encourage creativity, learning, and fun during out-of-school time.
• Youth and Adult Sports Leagues: Kids and adults alike can stay active and connect with the community through organized soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and more.
• Rockville Swim and Fitness Center: Residents of all ages can take advantage of swim lessons, water fitness, lap swimming, and strength training.
• Cultural Arts and Enrichment Programs: Explore your creative side through music, dance, visual arts, and theater programs.
• Programs for Older Adults: The Rockville Senior Center offers health and wellness programs, lifelong learning, and social events designed to help older adults thrive.

To learn more about programs or apply for financial assistance, call 240-314-8620 or email registration@rockvillemd.gov.

Types of Assistance

In addition to the Youth Recreation Fund and Senior Assistance Fund detailed below, limited financial assistance (based on income) is also available for adult Rockville residents ages 19 and older. Please call 240-314-8620 to make an appointment.

Youth Recreation Fund

A limited number of scholarships for program fees are available for Rockville residents ages 18 and younger. The participant must pay $15 toward each program fee unless otherwise specified. The fund will cover the balance of the fees, up to $100 maximum per person, per session (fall, winter, spring, summer) and $1,000 maximum per family. For the summer camp season, the fund will cover $175 maximum per youth for each camp session and $1,000 maximum per child. Any remaining balance must be paid by the participant. For more information, or to apply for the Youth Recreation Fund, call 240-314-8620 or email registration@rockvillemd.gov.

Senior Assistance Fund

Financial assistance for senior classes, day trips, and Rockville Senior Center memberships is available for Rockville residents ages 60 and older. The participant pays half of the actual cost with a maximum subsidy of $50 per quarter. For additional information, please call 240-314-8810.

Senior Assistance Fund Application

Rockville Safe Waters: Swim Scholarship Program for Youth with Autism 

The Rockville Safe Waters initiative has been established to honor the memory of Ace Alexander and aims to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive swim instruction environment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through a targeted scholarship program, we will provide financial support for inclusive swim lessons for up to 10 children, fostering water safety, physical development, and family engagement at the Rockville Swim and Fitness Center. Review the Scholarship Application for more details. Scholarship applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the 10 scholarships are awarded. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:  

• Children aged 3–10 with a confirmed ASD diagnosis. 
• Resident of the City of Rockville. 
• Commitment to attend in-person swim lessons at Rockville Swim and Fitness Center. 
• Established youth readiness to engage in group swim lessons. 
• Adult present at facility/on deck during lessons. 

Required Documentation: Qualified applicants must provide proof of residency and meet financial requirements.