YMCA seeks support to fund summer camp for kids affected by trauma
By medicinehatnews on May 16, 2024.
news@medicinehatnews.com
The YMCA is asking residents and businesses for financial support for an effort to raise $20,000 to provide a summer day camp that supports children aged 5-12 who struggle to regulate emotions or is exhibiting challenging behaviours after experiencing a traumatic or life-changing event.
At Camp Jude staff are trained and use a trauma-informed approach to help children participate in traditional camp programs and help campers express themselves in healthy ways.
Staff outnumber campers at Camp Jude allowing a safe space in a more quiet outdoor location.
Staff also provide campers specialized activities that use sensory strategies, and they go on field trips.
“This camp has had a life-changing impact on 220 children in our community and is the first place many of them have been able to make friends and successfully participate in summer programming,” says CEO Sharon Hayward. “Camp Jude is a unique service and the YMCA is committed to doing everything it can to raise the funds needed to see it operate this summer.”
The camp was launched in 2022 and was funded by a one-time Canada Innovation Grant. The grant was matched by an anonymous donor.
Staff says Camp Jude has only received partial funding this summer and so they are reaching out to members of the community, groups and businesses to help raise the remaining funds needed to see it operate.
Online donations can be made at medicinehatymca/ca/donate, or by stopping in at the Downtown and South Ridge branches. Donations over $10 are eligible for a tax receipt.
Businesses interested in potential sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to email
programs@medicinehatymca.ca.
11
-10
