The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario launched its Fill the Bus CAMPaign, with a goal to raise $200,000 and send 1,000 kids to camp.
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In Chatham-Kent, the YMCA aims to send 70 of those kids, and raise $14,000.
Presented by Mainstreet Credit Union, and through the support of sponsors, YMCA staff and volunteers, and the generosity of Chatham-Kent residents, the Y is sending 48 kids to camp this summer so far.
“Camp is an educational and magical experience. We believe that spending time at camp builds confidence and independence that campers will take with them through to adulthood,” Andrew Lockie, chief executive of the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, said in a release Wednesday.
“We appreciate that the cost of camp is more challenging for some, and our Fill the Bus campaign raises funds to ensure every child can attend camp, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
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Children and youth attending camp report increased environmental awareness, positive attitudes towards physical activity, emotional intelligence, personal development and self-confidence, the release said.
Camp also gives kids access to healthy activities that connect them to others, as well as life beyond a screen.
“As a charity, the Y would not be able to send these kids to camp independently, so we greatly appreciate the support of our sponsors like RSD Maintenance & General Contracting, with a generous donation of $5,000, as well as our staff, volunteers and private donors,” said Timarra Milmine, Chatham-Kent YMCA general manager.
“We are absolutely thrilled to help so many kids have the experience of a lifetime this summer.”
For more information, visit ymcaswo.ca/fill-bus.
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