Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program

The Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program is administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and is funded through the Environmental Protection Fund. Established to promote environmental education and equitable outdoor access, this initiative helps school-age children across New York State connect with nature, public lands, and historic resources. With a total appropriation of $3 million in Fiscal Year 2025, the program continues to offer reimbursement-based funding for eligible field trips to designated state and federal sites. The grant supports Title I school districts, municipalities, libraries, BOCES, non-public and public schools, and not-for-profit organizations that serve inner-city, environmental justice, or underserved communities within New York State. To qualify, applicants must be physically located within a Title I district and meet additional criteria. Notably, for-profit entities, individuals, and government agencies at the state or federal level are not eligible. Each grant covers up to $2,500 per trip and may reimburse transportation-related expenses, entry fees at eligible facilities, and related costs, provided they are pre-approved and align with program guidelines. Eligible field trip destinations include OPRHP-managed parks and historic sites, Department of Environmental Conservation locations, National Park Service sites within New York, and venues operated by state agencies such as the Olympic Regional Development Authority. Importantly, the program only funds trips to public lands or facilities managed by state or federal agencies. Costs for lodging, food, personal vehicles, and unrelated travel are not eligible for reimbursement. Applications must be submitted at least four weeks before a planned trip and no earlier than six months in advance. Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants are responsible for organizing logistics, securing transportation, and making arrangements with destination sites. Public schools and BOCES benefit from auto-filled vendor ID data during application. Not-for-profit and non-public school applicants must ensure their Statewide Financial System (SFS) profiles are current and supply their New York State Vendor ID Number (VIDN). The application requires detailed information such as transportation mode, number of children, field trip site details, round-trip mileage, and quotes if using a new transportation provider. Award notifications are issued within three weeks of submission and include the maximum reimbursable amount. Reimbursements occur only after the trip concludes and must be requested within 90 days, supported by valid payment documentation and completed forms. This grant program operates continuously while funds remain available. As a rolling, reimbursement-based opportunity, there are no fixed submission deadlines. However, applicants must ensure timely and complete submissions to avoid forfeiture. The program guidelines, revised in September 2025, emphasize compliance, responsible field trip management, and financial accountability to ensure continued support for equitable access to outdoor educational experiences.

Submit applications as early as allowed; ensure all vendor registration is complete; retain original receipts for reimbursement; obtain cost quotes from multiple providers.