Children’s Foundation nears finish line for camp fund

WELLINGTON COUNTY – This May, the Children’s Foundation ran its annual “Help Send Kids to Camp” fundraising campaign, with a goal of raising enough to fund 625 weeks of camp experiences for local children and youth. 

With the generous support of its matching sponsor Skyline, which matched the first $35,000 in donations, it has made really encouraging progress, officials say, but is still about 60 weeks short of hitting its target.

But there’s still time to help, by donating at childrensfoundation.org/kidstocamp.

Every $200 raised helps send a child to camp for a week.

“Attending camp is about more than just roasting marshmallows and making crafts,” says Children’s Foundation executive director Karyn Kirkwood.

“For many of the kids we support, camp is the closest they come to a summer vacation – a chance to play, try new things, and feel a sense of belonging. 

“It’s where they build confidence, make friendships, and return to school in the fall with stories and memories they’re proud of.”

The Children’s Foundation’s Free to Grow program provides funding for children and youth to make sure every child who needs it gets to experience a summer where they feel included, keeping kids active outdoors swimming, playing sports, and taking part in the kinds of activities that help them thrive, officials say. 

Last year, the Children’s Foundation helped fund just over 600 weeks of camp experiences and are hoping to meet the growing demand this summer.  For more information or to make a donation, visit childrensfoundation.org/kidstocamp.