Enrollment for Projeto Botinho 2025, the most traditional free vacation camp in Latin America, opened on Monday, December 23, at 8 AM. The program, organized by the Military Fire Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro (CBMERJ) in partnership with Sesc RJ, will provide 5,000 spots for children and youth aged 7 to 17 from January 21 to January 31, 2025.
Recognized both nationally and internationally for fostering conscious young citizens, Projeto Botinho offers activities focused on drowning prevention, social interaction, and environmental conservation. Participants will be grouped by age: the Golfinho class for 7 to 10 years old, Moby Dick for 11 to 14-year-olds, and Tubarão for 15 to 17-year-olds. Each participant will receive a certificate upon completion of the project.
The daily schedule runs from 8 AM to 11 AM at 29 beaches throughout the state, where activities include physical exercises on the sand, instructions about ocean conditions, first aid training, and conservation lessons. "This initiative is not just about fun; it’s about saving lives and spreading knowledge about safety," emphasized Colonel Tarciso Salles, the Secretary of Civil Defense and the commander-general of the CBMERJ. He highlighted the importance of educating the new generations, saying, "Children and youth learn and share this knowledge with their families and friends, becoming advocates for drowning prevention and nature conservation!"
To enroll, legal guardians must submit applications online via the project’s site, filling out forms with the necessary details about the minor(s) and selecting their preferred beach or location. A confirmation email will be sent within 24 hours, containing guidelines for submitting required documents, including medical certificates, between January 2 and 9, 2025. This step is mandatory to secure the child’s spot, as emphasized by project officials.
Antonio Florencio de Queiroz Junior, president of Sesc RJ, reiterated the organization’s commitment to the project. “Supporting Projeto Botinho aligns perfectly with our values and institutional goals. It reinforces beach safety awareness, environmental consciousness, and the education of children—essential pillars for cultivating more aware and responsible citizens."
The urgency of enrolling is clear, as spots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested parties are urged to act quickly to provide their children with this opportunity for learning, fun, and safety at the beach.
With sessions held across popular beaches, participants will have the chance to engage with their local environment actively. From the famed shores of Copacabana to the serene sands of Praia do Flamengo, Projeto Botinho aims to create lasting impacts and memories for young attendees.
