City of Kent

Scholarship eligibility is based on household income and the number of dependents living in the household, and is in alignment with the Federal Poverty Guidelines and related assistance programs. Generally, you may be eligible for scholarship assistance if your household qualifies for DSHS Medical Identification Card (must be current), Kent School District Free/Reduced Lunch Program, EBT Benefits and/or Social Security benefits.

Youth applicants must reside within the City of Kent or within the Kent School District service area.

Senior applicants must reside within the City of Kent or within King County. Senior assistance is provided by the King County Veterans, Seniors, Human Services Levy funds.

An adult or legal guardian in the household must complete the application and is responsible for providing accurate information and current documentation. The definition of legal dependent is a son, daughter, grandchild or foster child who lives with you more than half the year.

Completed applications must be dropped off in person at the Kent Commons Community Center or the Kent Senior Activity Center.

Applications can be picked up at the following locations:

• Kent Commons Community Center, 525 4 Ave. N, Kent, WA 98032
• Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E Smith St., Kent, WA 98032

Please submit your completed application and eligibility documentation in-person during business hours at either of the following locations:

• Kent Commons Community Center, 525 4 Ave. N, Kent, WA 98032
  
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E Smith St., Kent, WA 98032
  • Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Documentation is required in order to determine eligibility. You may do this by submitting any one of the following:

• Current eligibility/award letter for reduced school lunches
• Current DSHS Medical Identification card
• EBT benefits award letter
• Copy of most recent Federal 1040 income tax returns, OR
• If you are unable to provide either of these, you may submit other documentation of income (such as SSA/SSI Benefit Statements, last 3 months of paycheck stubs, etc.).

The City of Kent and Kent Parks, Recreation & Community Services department will keep all application materials and supporting documentation confidential; it will not be shared with other individuals, organizations, or agencies without your approval. Only Kent Parks staff who review and approve scholarship applications will have access to the submitted materials.

In addition, class instructors, coaches, and program leaders are not informed of a participant's assistance status. 

Applications are reviewed as they are submitted; applicants will be notified shortly after their application (and all required documents) are received. In most cases, staff on-duty will be able to provide immediate notification of eligibility.

Once approved, a scholarship is valid for the current calendar year.

You will need to re-apply annually to be considered for renewal. Please note that renewal cannot be guaranteed as your household situation and City resources may change.

Scholarships can be used for most recreation programs and facility passes. Some services are not eligible for Recreation Scholarship assistance, including private and specialized classes, facility rentals and merchandise.

Qualified applicants will receive 50% off qualifying programs.

Participants must pay the non-scholarship portion of the program fee at the time of registration.

Yes.

Participants who receive assistance do not have priority if registration is late and/or the class is full.

Questions about eligibility, or calls to discuss accommodations, are always welcome!

• Youth Scholarships: Please call the Kent Commons at 253-856-5100.
• Senior 50+ Scholarships: Please call the Kent Senior Center at 253-856-5150.