By Spencer Sterritt

Significant donation sending hundreds of high-needs children to camp

Jun 29, 2018 | 4:24 PM

NANAIMO — It will be a summer of fun and adventure for youth who wouldn’t normally have the chance.

A $10,000 donation was made on Friday, June 29 to the Tom Harris Fund for Families, which in turn will be donated the YMCA to send children with higher-needs to camp.

Fione Wilson with the Vancouver Island YMCA and YWCA said it means roughly 300 children will attend Camp Thunderbird, a nature-themed camp outside Sooke.

“A lot of time it’s their first experience outside with no noise and just the calm of the forest and the camp,” Wilson told NanaimoNewsNOW.

“Being outside is really proven to have a lasting effect on youth. It provides confidence, the opportunity for kids to develop new friendships and leadership skills, challenge themselves in ways they wouldn’t normally do in their regular setting.”

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At camp, they’ll enjoy a beautiful lake, enjoy everything nature has to offer and be guided by counselors as they explore a new way to have fun.

At least $25,000 will be donated from Fund for Families to help children across B.C. and Alberta, raised by all branches of Tom Harris Cellular.

Harris’ son Tony was on hand for the cheque presentation on Friday.

He said it’s heartwarming to see his fathers legacy continued in the community.

“I know this would make my dad’s heart sing,” Tony said. “He loved seeing kids happy, especially enjoying what summer has to offer.”

Tom Harris suddenly passed away roughly a year ago after a life time of helping others and the City of Nanaimo.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit