Burlington County’s battle against stigmas surrounding mental illness and substance abuse continues this summer with the return of Camp Cardinal, a free day-camp program for children impacted by substance use disorder.
The day camp will be held at YMCA of the Pines in Medford on Saturday, June 15, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Registration is now open for eligible participants.
The one-day camp program is for children ages seven to 14 who have suffered a loss due to substance use disorder or been impacted by substance use disorder within their immediate family. The camp will provide a safe space for children to interact and participate in camp activities such as shelter building, archery, crafts, rope course and outdoor climbing wall, as well as special group sessions devoted to coping skills and building resiliency to stress, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses.
The Burlington County Department of Human Services and the Burlington County Traumatic Loss Coalition for Youth, an interactive statewide network of professionals with experience with mental health issues, suicide prevention, trauma response and resiliency enhancement will run the program with YMCA camp staff.
Transportation to and from camp is provided and children will receive meals, a bookbag, T shirt, journal and water bottle.
Families interested in the program can apply online at https://forms.gle/8pH9D2P9nM2CnR8dA. For questions about the program, call (609) 265-5794 or email klogue@co.burlington.nj.us.
