GUELPH – With summer just around the corner, the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington has announced a new fundraising campaign aimed at providing hundreds of kids with the opportunity to attend summer camp.
Camp is a chance for kids to be physically active, develop new skills, gain confidence, and make lasting friendships in a safe and supportive environment, officials say.
However, not every family can afford to send their child to camp, which is why the Children’s Foundation is sending out a call for support.
“We are reaching out to ask for your help in making a difference in the lives of local kids by giving them the opportunity to go to summer camp,” says Suzanne Bone, interim CEO at the Children’s Foundation.
“Our Free to Grow program funds kids from low-income households to participate in recreational activities, including camp.
“Every Kids to Camp donation counts, and right now, donations will be doubled thanks to our generous matching donor, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley.”
“We are honoured to join with the Children’s Foundation in this campaign because we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to simply be a kid and experience the fun of going to camp,” says Chris Humeniuk, president, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley.
“With everyone pulling together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their financial circumstances, will be able to take a break from screens and other digital distractions and connect with other kids in nature.”
The benefits of summer camp go far beyond just having fun in the sun.
Children’s Foundation officials say camp also plays a vital role in children’s personal growth, including social integration, attitudes toward physical activity, self-confidence and self-reliance, environmental awareness, and emotional intelligence.
Not only do children grow and develop throughout the camp experience, but studies have found the positive changes stay with them in their home and school environments.
One mom wrote about her daughter’s experience at camp.
“Going to camp helped my daughter to come out of her shell and build her self-esteem,” the mother wrote.
“It’s so important for children to attend camps to become strong and independent individuals and we’re really grateful for the help to make this possible for her.”
You can join the Children’s Foundation in giving kids their “best summer ever” by making a donation and putting the sunshine in their summer.
Donations can be made online at www.childrensfoundation.org or by calling 519-826-9551.
