Here at MetroFamily, we believe every kid should have the opportunity to attend summer camp. For youth with special needs or circumstances, Oklahoma City has several non-profit organizations that help provide summer camp experiences at little or no cost. One of these is Church of the Harvest's Harvest Foster Kids Camp.
This June marks the 10th annual camp for local foster kids between the ages of 6 and 11. The four-day camp offers youth in foster care an opportunity to let go of the past, spend valuable time with peers and mentors, gain confidence and have fun. Kids in the camp have a chance to take part in traditional camp activities like swimming, hiking and crafts. The camp staff also treat them to special experiences like a group birthday party, as many of the kids at the camp will not celebrate their actual birthdays.
Harvest Foster Camp has a special opportunity for MetroFamily readers to pitch in to allow more kids to attend this life-changing camp. The easiest way to donate is through the camp's website. Sponsoring a child to attend camp costs $350, but there are several more affordable ways to help. This year's camp theme is Superhero and these supplies are needed:
- Girls or size small women's dress up shoes, costume jewelry, formal dresses, makeup and nail polish
- Snacks for 70 children for three days
- Birthday party decor for 70 children, including crepe paper, party favors, party horns, party hats, Disney characters party favors, birthday cakes, cupcakes, cookies and candy.
- Gift cards and monetary donations so camp volunteers can buy each child a birthday gift. Gift cards can be in the amount of $25-$50 from Toys R Us, Target or Walmart.
- Craft supplies like crayons, paper, markers, cotton balls, glue, etc.
- Boy and girl toys for the camp store, including coloring books, water guns, dolls, action figures, Legos and toy cars
Donated items can be slightly used but in good condition. Gift card donations are needed as soon as possible. All donations can be dropped off at 6800 N. Bryant Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. through June 26 or mailed to P.O. Box 20192 in Oklahoma City, OK 73156.
Harvest Foster Camp runs from June 27-30. If you are a foster parent and would like to send your foster child to camp, please contact Malika Cox at malika.cox@harvestokc.com or Jeremy Dugas at 478-7373.
