The Life-Changing Gift of Camp: One Family’s Story of Hope

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Camp has always been about more than just summer fun—it’s a ministry dedicated to making an eternal impact in the lives of children. This summer, the team at Camp Joy El had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how God works through the generosity of supporters to reach families in profound ways. One family’s story, in particular, stood out as a powerful reminder of the difference this ministry makes.

One of the camp’s summer staff members recommended a family for scholarships. The family had three children, and the staff member knew they were facing significant challenges. She felt camp would be a perfect opportunity for these kids but understood that finances were an obstacle. Without hesitation, the camp director picked up the phone and called the family’s mom.

When the mother answered, the director explained that they wanted to offer her three children a week at camp, completely free of charge. The mother, caught off guard, asked, “Why would you want to give me camp for my kids?” The director explained that it was a gift from people who care deeply about children, particularly those who are fatherless.

The line fell silent for a moment before the mother quietly exclaimed, “Wow! And you called me? How did you know?”

The director explained that someone who cared about her family had recommended them. The mother’s voice cracked as she began to cry. She shared how her husband had abandoned their family shortly after the birth of their third child. They hadn’t seen or heard from him in years, and she had been raising the children on her own. Life had been tough, and sending the kids to camp felt like an impossible luxury.

“She’s been after me to send the kids to camp for a while,” the mother said, referring to the friend who had recommended them. “She believes camp is life-changing for kids. But it’s always felt like something we just couldn’t afford. I know my kids would love it.”

The director reassured her that camp would indeed be life-changing for her children and expressed the joy in being able to welcome them. The mother eagerly signed them up, even coordinating their week with her son’s friend so they could bunk together.

When the week of camp finally arrived, the children dove into camp life with enthusiasm, ready for adventure. They enjoyed all the joys of summer camp—canoeing, making new friends, and hearing about God’s love in ways that were both fun and transformative. Each day, they heard stories of hope and learned about a Heavenly Father who would never abandon them.

At the end of the week, the mother came to the camp’s closing program to pick up her children. Her face was glowing with gratitude as she approached the director, excited to share her experience. “This is the first week I’ve had all to myself in seven years!” she exclaimed. “Thank you so much for blessing us with these weeks of camp. The kids loved every moment!”

As the conversation continued, it became clear that the week of camp had made a deep impact on the family. The children had formed new friendships, learned new skills, and most importantly, encountered the love of God in ways that would stay with them for years to come. For a mother who had been carrying the heavy burden of raising her children alone, this week was not just a break; it was a reminder that she and her children were not forgotten.

Stories like these illustrate why Psalm68Five exists. When supporters invest in this ministry, they do much more than send kids to camp. They give children a chance to experience the love of Christ in a meaningful and life-changing way, often at a time when they need it most. They help shape children’s faith, confidence, and future.