Valleywide : Kids From Quake-Hit Areas Go to Camp

For many children of low-income families in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys, the Northridge earthquake 18 months ago brought an extra hardship into their already difficult lives.

But thanks to the Salvation Army, more than 100 of them this month are experiencing a tradition familiar among more affluent kids--summer camp.

Last week, more than 30 youngsters from Santa Clarita Valley families affected by the quake visited the Salvation Army’s Camp Gilmore in Calabasas, said regional director Martin Hunt, who coordinates the camp stays. Beginning today, about 100 kids from quake-ravaged areas of Pacoima and Canoga Park will spend six days at the site.

“They’re all from areas hit hard by the quake,” he said.

Hunt described the typical camp visitor as a child between the ages of 7 and 15 from a large, low-income family “that struggles to keep unity.”

Children are selected based on the recommendations of community centers familiar with the difficulties of families in their areas, Hunt explained, adding that it costs approximately $160 per child for a week’s stay at camp. Since most families cannot afford to pay for the visits, the Salvation Army picks up the tab, he said.

At camp, the children can participate in hikes and sports such as basketball, volleyball and soccer, as well as arts and crafts projects, Hunt said.

Don Gilger, who oversees all the Salvation Army’s youth programs in Southern California, said that since each week of camp involves a theme, last week’s campers experienced “Christmas in July.” This week’s bunch will participate in activities based on the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, he said.

Although he never attended camp as a boy, Gilger said he enjoys offering children the chance to explore nature. “To see them open up and experience things is wonderful.”