Caregivers can write an essay about their experiences for a contest that awards thousands of dollars in free care for their loved ones.

The “Give a Caregiver a Break” essay contest will award $16,000 in free caregiving services to 15 winning essay writers. The contest is sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care and featured in “Caring Today” magazine.

Entries, which can be submitted until June 15, must be 500 words or less and written by nonprofessional family caregivers. The grand prize winner will receive $5,000. Two first place winners will each receive $2,500, and there will be a dozen $500 prizes.

For rules and more details, visit www.caringtoday.com or www.homeinstead.com