Like many of our children, Kaiya is going through a difficult time as the Covid-19 pandemic continues.
The need to social distance can be particularly cruel now as we face major life events without the ability to come together. To know that memories of camp are keeping Kaiya strong and resilient, I am filled with hope.
For 103 years, Moorelands Camp, with its wilderness adventures, scenic beauty and caring staff, has been a place of refuge and sanctuary for vulnerable children and youth facing economic barriers.
Throughout our history, we have always aimed to provide a place that will support the mental and physical wellbeing of our campers. Our purpose is to support and prepare them for trying times like these, and give them the tools they need to overcome life’s challenges.
I know many of you have questions about how we can run our camp this summer. We now know that the Government of Ontario has said that summer camps may not run this year due to health directives around the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we are not able to send kids to camp on Kawagama Lake, instead, we will send camp to kids through our virtual programs. One thing remains the same at Moorelands Kids: we seek to serve up an amazing camp experience.
I am glad to tell you that we are responding to the huge increase in kids’ anxiety and to the distress caused by social distancing with nimble speed. We have reached out to all our kids and families personally, assessing urgent needs and best ways to communicate. We are generating engaging and supportive virtual programming that keeps kids safe, connected and growing. We are hosting live and moderated group sessions with the kids and looking at ways to provide connections and conversations between cabin groups. Check out our virtual programs here: www.moorelands.ca/virtual-programs.
At Moorelands Kids, our vision is to empower children and youth to transform their lives. With all of the stresses caused by Covid-19 – on top of the existing stresses of facing economic barriers — children need positive mental stimulation in the kind of supportive environment we offer, now more than ever. Kids need the continuity that Moorelands brings and new ways to engage in nature under ‘extraordinary’ circumstances. And our kids need you.
One empowering step you can take right now is to send a kid to camp. If you haven’t already, please make your gift online. You can give kids the community, sense of security, and the joy to be found in positive friendships. Let’s keep our kids strong during this time of isolation and loneliness.
Thank you for believing in us and for continuing to share your strengths as part of our community. Together, we are stronger and empowering kids to transform their lives.
Lynda Tilley
Executive Director | Moorelands Kids
