Prairie Mountain Health is organizing the 15th Annual Camp Bridges, a weekend camp for bereaved children and teens.
The camp hasn’t taken place since 2019 because of the pandemic and camp planners are eager to get back up and running in 2023. Camp Bridges will be held at Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB on May 26, 27 and 28, 2023.
“The goal of Camp Bridges is to support children and teens with their grief and bereavement. This is achieved through activities designed to help share grief and honour memories in a caring community environment. The Camp will provide a safe, supportive and fun environment where grieving children and teens learn that they are not alone in their grief and are free to share their thoughts and feelings with peers who are going through a similar experience,” said Melissa Peters a palliative care coordinator with Prairie Mountain Health who helps organize the camp.
This camp is intended to complement existing bereavement services for children and teens by providing a weekend of “caring and sharing”.
Peters adds Camp Bridges is largely funded through private donations. “Donations are being accepted to cover the cost of camp rental, meals and activities, so that campers may attend at no cost. Anyone wishing to donate to Camp Bridges or seeking more information about the camp may contact their regional Palliative Care representative.”
Camp Bridges has room for 40 campers, between the ages of 7 and 15, and relies on the work of about 30 volunteers to make the camp a reality each year.
Peters says anyone interested in donated or volunteering can contact Melissa Peters or Carla Mitchell (204-578-2310) for more information. The application deadline for volunteers is March 22, 2023.
Camper Applications can be obtained from your regional Palliative Care representative and are requested by May 1, 2023.