MOOSE JAW — The Salvation Army in Moose Jaw is once again opening the door to summertime adventure — and hopes families will seize the opportunity.
From July 21 to 25, children between the ages of seven and 12 in and around Moose Jaw will have the chance to take part in a week-long adventure camp held at Beaver Creek Camp, a scenic venue located just south of Saskatoon. The program offers campers a safe and exciting Bible-based setting to enjoy traditional summer activities, meet peers from across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and take a much-needed break from city life.
“It’s a great experience for them,” said Maj. Byron Kean with the Moose Jaw Salvation Army. “They get to do arts and crafts, games, various other activities, and they get to have campfires. It’s a great social setting to help kids see the world beyond Moose Jaw and to interact with people from around Saskatchewan and Manitoba.”
The camp fee is $265 per child, which includes meals, accommodations, and inclusion in all camp activities. Transportation to and from the camp is provided free of charge, removing another potential barrier for families.
To keep the camp experience inclusive for as many children as possible, subsidies are available for low-income families or those facing temporary economic hardships.
“There are subsidies available for low-income families so that they don’t miss out,” Kean said. “We don’t want kids to miss out on going to camp because their parents can’t afford it. We will make every effort possible to make sure they get to go to camp (this summer).”
For more information on potential subsidies, visit the Moose Jaw Salvation Army office on the south end of the building at 175 First Avenue Northeast and speak with Tammy, the Salvation Army’s community ministries co-ordinator.
“She’ll be able to take their information, give them what they need, and help them to sort things out, to get their kid to camp,” said Kean.
Most essentials are included in the cost of admission, but young campers will still be required to bring a few personal items including a sleeping bag, pillow, clothes, toiletries, and similar items. For more information and a list of required items, Tammy can provide further details and answer any questions.
The Bible-based camp experience is open to participants of all Christian denominations.
The camp experience is familiar for many return attendees, but new campers will be guided through every step to ensure they feel welcome and supported throughout the week.
“For newbies, we’ll provide them with the information that they need to have an enjoyable five days away from home,” Kean added.
Above all, the Salvation Army is eager to help kids build memories, confidence, and friendships that last far beyond the summer.
“We’re looking forward to engaging the youth of our community to provide them with the opportunity to go to a summer camp,” said Kean. “(We want our young campers) to enjoy socializing with individuals from other communities, and to just enjoy time in the outdoors, to run free in a very safe environment, and to have a good time.”
Applications are now open, and families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure a spot.
For more information, visit SalvationArmyMooseJaw.ca or “The Salvation Army in Moose Jaw” on Facebook. The Salvation Army office is located at 175 First Avenue Northeast and can be reached at 306-692-5899.
