The Greater Waterbury Campership Fund took in more than $5,100 this week, the largest weekly amount so far in the 2006 fund-raising campaign.

"We're sending our children to camp and we're hoping they're having a few weeks of a lot of fun," said Caren G. Bouchard, vice president of the Naugatuck Savings Bank, whose foundation gave $1,600 this week. "It's a great cause."

The fund gives underprivileged boys and girls from Greater Waterbury an experience at one of the many camps in Connecticut. It is sponsored by the Republican-American and administered by the United Way of Greater Waterbury.

The fund has received $15,515 this year, every penny of which will go toward sending youngsters to camp. Organizers hope to raise $120,000 before summer to fund an expected 470 eligible campers.

Individuals can sponsor a camper for $75 a day or $265 a week for day camp and $795 a week for overnight camp. Special needs camps can cost as much as $1,000 a week.

The fund caters to children who live in Bethlehem, Cheshire, Middlebury, Prospect, Southbury, Thomaston, Waterbury, Watertown, Wolcott and Woodbury. Eligibility is determined by residence and financial need.

Bouchard said the Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation gives to Campership because of its support for area children.

"We are avid supporters of many of our community and their needs," she said. "We love giving to any worthy community project that helps children, education."

Contributions may be made in memory of a loved one, in thanks or appreciation, or as a civic project or workplace initiative. All donations are tax-deductible.

Donations of any amount will be acknowledged in the Republican-American, unless the donor wishes otherwise. They can be mailed to Michael Mucciacciaro, treasurer, Greater Waterbury Campership Fund, c/o the Republican-American, P.O. Box 2090, Waterbury 06722.