Summer Fun Returning to Newport Adventure Camp
Campers can expect a cooler and more comfortable Newport Adventure Camp this summer, thanks to a $350,000 donation provided by The Weston Family Foundation.
New overnight accommodations are coming to The Salvation Army camp near Huntsville, Ontario this spring, just in time for the reopening of overnight camping on Skeleton Lake.
Five 40-foot trailers have replaced previous structures as sleeping arrangements for campers and meals are now served in a newly air-conditioned dining hall. Newport Adventure Camp officially reopens this summer after being closed for the last two years because of the pandemic.
Newport Adventure Camp has 168 kids aged 10-15 attending each week during the summer. Many of the children at camp are from low-income households and are sponsored by their home Ministry Unit to ensure they have a positive and exciting summer camp experience.
“Our Ministry Units do their best to ensure camp is within reach for every child who is interested in attending. No one wants cost to be a reason a child is unable to attend camp,” said Becca Allen, Divisional Children and Youth Program Coordinator at Newport Adventure Camp.
“Salvation Army Ministry Units are looking for campers to send to camp, they want to send as many as they are capable of sending. If a family is interested in sending their children, I would encourage them to get in touch with their local office as soon as possible as spaces are limited and tend to fill quickly!”
The new insulated trailers are more comfortable, with more space for campers’ belongings. There is an external raised deck and a small space to hang out inside. Each trailer, purchased from Armstrong Trailers, sleeps 14 people in seven bunk beds. The 12-foot wide, 40-foot-long trailers are heated and air conditioned. Two doors lead inside to the trailers that have 7 large windows to let in plenty of natural light. Window blinds provide privacy and keep light out.
“We are so thankful and grateful for the generous donation from the Weston Family Foundation, that has allowed us to purchase five new trailers that will provide even better accommodations for our campers, that will last for many years to come,” said Captain Mark Dunstan, Divisional Children and Youth Secretary with The Salvation Army in Ontario.
The previous structures provided comfortable accommodation, with bunks, mattresses, lighting and fans for air flow, but they were aging and ongoing maintenance meant it was time for a change.
“Campers will enjoy this brand new living space that will be appreciated by all who use it, not just in this first year, but for thousands of campers using it for decades to come,” Captain Dunstan said.
With heated and insulated trailers, plans are in the works to open Newport Adventure Camp for winter use, providing a new adventurous camping experience.
“Within Ontario Camping Ministries, we strive to give hope to campers, volunteers and staff as they enjoy a week at camp, as well as those that work and care for our God given property at Newport Adventure Camp,” said Captain Dunstan.
Visit www.ilovecamp.ca for details on Newport Adventure Camp sessions this summer. Contact a local Salvation Army office for information and to register. The first session starts July 4.
