Turkey hosts summer youth camps for 2,240 children under state protection

youth camps state protection psychosocial development summer programs social activities

A total of 2,240 children under state protection and care in Turkey participated in the 2026 Summer Youth Camps. Organized by the Ministry of Family and Social Services, the programs aim to support the psychosocial development of these children through various themes, including sea, nature, and values education.

The camps were conducted at facilities under the Ministry of Youth and Sports, with educational staff provided by the Presidency of Religious Affairs. Activities included sports such as archery, rafting, football, and mini golf, as well as cultural and artistic pursuits like theater, music, and handicrafts.

Specific locations included nature and values camps in Istanbul, Kastamonu, Samsun, and Muş, which hosted 497 children. Sea camps in Mersin and Çeşme hosted 271 and 1,046 children, respectively. Additionally, 426 children participated in camps at the KALBEN Children's Village on Ekinlik Island in Balıkesir through a collaboration with the KALBEN Association.