ResourceCare seeks Day Camp funding
By Jillian Lucas
Well over 200 people, including 155 campers, 40 high school workers, 22 junior high volunteers, and a slew of ResourceCare employees, are set to begin ResourceCare’s 23rd year of Summer Day Camp on July 12.
With just a few weeks prior to the start date, Day Camp is still in need of funding.
“We are still desperately seeking sponsorships and donations,” said Mindy Ary, one of the Day Camp directors.
Ary explained that typically a big portion of funding comes from Abilene’s United Way, and that this is the first year without that funding in quite a while, making the process much more difficult.
“This year, United Way decided to reallocate the funds that usually go towards Day Camp and use them for the Aspire program that we have for third and fourth graders during the school year,” Ary said. “We are extremely grateful for United Way and the funding that they provide us each year in all capacities, but without the funding specifically for Day Camp, we are just going to have to get extra help from others to make this event a success.”
As a reminder, although registration is now closed, Day Camp is completely free to all children and families that are registered.
“Day Camp is free for all campers,” said camp co-director Ragan Riley. “We get a small grant that helps with the food only.”
Funding, besides that for food, is solely provided from sponsorships, donations, and fundraising efforts.
“All other activities including swimming at the pool each day, the Aztec Theatre, gas for bus rides, games, paychecks for the high school workers, and much more, comes from our fundraising money,” Riley explained.
“We are working hard to raise funds in various ways,” said Ary, “but we still need help with monetary donations and some specific items.”
ResourceCare is also looking for donations of spray-on sunscreen, bottled water, drinks for the staff and volunteers, and pillows and blankets.
All campers receive a free t-shirt, and companies that choose to be sponsors will have their names printed on the back of each shirt.
“We really want to thank the organizations and people that have already donated money, supplies, or their services,” said Riley. “We appreciate you so much. What a great place we live, where someone is always willing to help.”
Monetary or other donations can be mailed to ResourceCare, Attn: Day Camp, PO Box 2435, Albany TX 76430.
