Salvation Army’s Camp-in-a-Box Brings Fun and Connection to Children at Home
This year, Salvation Army’s Scotian Glen camp was unable to open due to COVID-19, but that hasn’t stopped the team from finding creative ways to bring the fun of camp to families at home. One in particular has quickly become a favourite, and that’s Camp-in-a-Box.
“It’s a box filled with fun”, says Major Carson Decker, Divisional Youth Secretary. “We want to bring smiles and laughter and the joys of camp through these boxes.”
The Maritime Youth team came up with the idea for Camp-in-a-Box as a way to stay connected to campers this summer. Each box is filled with a variety of activities and games, along with a classic Scotian Glen camp T-shirt and backpack.
“There is a DIY painting project that kids can create and send us a picture, a family s’more kit with conversation points, water balloons, pencil crayons, scavenger hunt, family Bingo kit and much more.”
“We are still here for them”
The boxes also included a camp classic – snacks from the canteen.
“You can’t have camp and not have canteen, so each box had to include lots of snacks,” Carson explains.
For the Maritime Youth team, the most important part of the boxes is the connection to the campers. That’s why they also included a personalized postcard in each box signed by the staff.
“Our goal wasn’t to recreate camp, it was to let campers know that we are still here for them and are anxiously waiting until we can safely re-open our camp again.”
“Kids are so excited to get their boxes”
The boxes have been distributed throughout Nova Scotia. In New Brunswick, The Salvation Army has introduced a similar Mobile Camp program to ensure children still have a camp experience this summer.
“Parents have really shown their appreciation and kids are so excited to get their boxes,” says Carson. “We’re doing different things all over the Maritimers to stay connected to our campers.”
The Salvation Army operates Scotian Glen camp, which gives underprivileged Maritime children and youth the chance to spend a week in the great outdoors, learning new skills and building friendships. Learn more about our camping programs and services.
By: Angela Rafuse
