Medicine Hat Community Steps Up to Support Camp Jude

As Camp Jude approaches the close of its second successful summer, the support of the Medicine Hat community continues to propel this exceptional camp to new heights. Camp Jude offers a sensory-sensitive environment, "cool down" spaces, a dedicated team of specially trained staff, and higher adult-to-child ratios in order to meet the needs of Campers who have experienced trauma. Campers engage in a diverse array of field trips and fun activities throughout camp.

"The unwavering backing from our community has been nothing short of awe-inspiring," remarks Victoria Potter, YMCA Director of Community Programs and the visionary behind the camp. "Local businesses and organizations have stepped up by offering discounts, accommodating the campers' sensory needs, and providing supplies for crafts and activities. Their involvement speaks volumes about the power of community collaboration."

The support of local businesses has been a cornerstone of Camp Jude's success, with Botanicals, Revolutionary Reptiles: Education Group, and Unlimited Characters aiding through special pricing. The Root Cellar Food and Wellness hub provides nutritional snack bags for campers each week. The children also had an opportunity to tour the Root Cellar which included harvesting carrots from the community garden and roasting hot dogs.

Further enhancing the campers' experience, several local establishments have opened their doors to provide serene and tranquil spaces. Dunmore Dugout graciously permitted access outside of public hours, while Police Point Park offered an exclusive and peaceful setting for campers to learn about our indigenous flora and fauna.

Victory Lutheran Church rented space to the YMCA to host Camp Jude for the second year in a row. The congregation has become very passionate about supporting their little tenants, from collecting supplies for crafts, lending out extension cords, providing office supplies, or just going out of their way to be kind and welcoming to the campers.

Camp Jude is actively seeking funding and donations to ensure the camp can return for the 2024 summer season. Those who are interested in supporting Camp Jude may do so through in kind donations of craft and activity supplies, activity donations and field trip donations, or through financial donations.

To learn more about the program, visit medicinehatymca.ca/camp-jude