A summer camp for children from 6 to 12 years of age is in jeopardy because of lack of money.
Salvation Army officials said that the group’s summer program, which is more than 20 years old, has been removed from the organization’s budget. To continue the program in 2008 would require $15,000 to $20,000.
“Because of funding, it is an endangered species,” said Salvation Army Capt. Mark Haslett. He said that the camp is a necessary service for the community, but it costs more to run than the fees charged to campers.
“... If we run a full house, it’s only covering about half of the actual cost,” Haslett said. “That’s why it’s in jeopardy.”
He said that the Salvation Army has applied to the Jones Foundation for a grant, but has not yet been successful. That is why the organization is appealing to the public for help.
“It’s highly organized and structured. It’s a very well-rounded program; there’s a lot of variety to it,” Haslett said.
A fenced yard, equipped with playground equipment, is available to use when children are not taking part in off-grounds activities. Participants go swimming and have the crafts, games, park outings and library visits that are standard fare for children’s summer programs. However, the Salvation Army also offers additional spiritual activities.
“Probably what sets it apart is we have a spiritual emphasis,” said Rose Colunga, youth director. “We do a Bible lesson every day.”
The camp also includes guest speakers and “professional days” that bring in lawyers, doctors, firefighters, and others in careers that may be attractive to youngsters.
“It’s a character-building program,” Haslett said.
The Salvation Army charges $50 a week for each child for the eight-week camp, which will run from June 4 through July 27 this year. Special prices and scholarships are avaialble for children in families that have multiple camp participants.
“We had to do a lot to get the license, so we’re working to keep it going,” Colunga said.
The camp is limited to 24 children per day, she said, so when participants go on vacation or cannot attend, youngsters on the camp waiting list can be called and brought in. Colunga said the camp, which traditionally has a full roster, routinely maintains a waiting list for such times.
Registration for this summer is open now. The stated age limits are 6 to 12 years old, though Colunga said that 5-year-olds who will turn 6 during the summer camp are eligible.
There are no income limitations to be eligible to enroll, and the camp is open to the public.
“They don’t have to be connected to us in any way to be part of it,” Haslett said.
Colunga said she is looking forward to another season of camp and is preparing to hire staff to work with the children during what may be the last season for the program.
“If we’re unable to fund it adequately this year,” Haslett said. “ ... it most likely won’t happen next year.”