TROOP 55 IS CURRENTLY WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS!
We believe that every young person should have the opportunity to be a Scout, regardless of family finances. Troop 55 works to keep Scouting as affordable as possible, and there are several ways Scouts can help earn their own way.
Scouting does have expenses, such as uniforms, annual registration fees, and activity fees. To keep Scouting affordable, Troop 55 offers multiple ways Scouts can entirely offset the cost of the program through group and individual fundraisers. Scroll down for more information.
Typical costs include:
Annual registration fees cover the cost of insurance, council and national programs and training, and other associated activities. Troop fees cover badges and other awards for each Scout throughout the year.
- $85 to Scouting America
- $75 to Local Scout Council
- $25 to Troop 55
Class A (Dress) Uniform shirt, pants, socks, and belt are required. These items are available through the Scouting America website and our local Scout shop. A complete uniform costs approximately $100 - $125. Troop 55 also maintains a uniform exchange where Scouts who outgrow uniforms and those in need of new sizes can exchange uniform items at no cost. A rack is located inside the entrance to our meeting area. Help yourself!
Class B (T-shirts and sweatshirts) are sold through the Troop. These items typically cost around $20 each. Troop 55 also maintains a uniform exchange where Scouts who outgrow uniforms and those in need of new sizes can exchange uniform items at no cost. A rack is located inside the entrance to our meeting area. Help yourself!
Monthly camping programs range in price based on the number of Scouts and leaders attending, mileage, number of drivers needed, etc. Trips range from $25 to $100 or more. It should be noted, Scouts are encouraged but not required to attend every trip.
Summer camp is a week-long adventure where Scouts earn merit badges, learn new skills and participate in a variety of adventure activities. Based on location, as selected by the Scouts, the cost of summer camp can range from $500 - $700.
Camping gear including tents, cooking stoves, lanterns and other equipment is provided by the Troop. Personal gear like blankets, sleeping bags, toiletries, clothing and camping chairs are the responsibility of each Scout. Troop 55 maintains a limited collection of donated equipment available to all Scouts who may need them.
A core value of Scouting is responsibility. Troop 55 provides annual opportunities for Scouts to earn money that can be applied to their own expenses, including our annual popcorn and camp card sales. A Scout who sells popcorn at our Troop's "storefront sales" is likely to be able to cover the cost of an entire year of participation after just a few shifts!
Financial Assistance
The Jersey Shore Council believes every Scout should be given an opportunity to participate and have established a Family Assistance Program to ensure all families will find Scouting within reach. As with all Scout programs, it is based on the concept that an individual Scout earns his or her own way: However, we recognize that not every Scout Family has the resources to participate in Scouting. The money made available through the Family Assistance Program is intended to defray some of the typical costs associated with Scouting.
No Scout is ever turned away because of cost. If a young person wants to be here, we will make it work. Please speak directly to the Committee Chair if costs are an issue for your family. All financial conversations are handled privately and respectfully.