Organizers of a month-long fundraiser have set a goal to collect thousands of dollars to help children dealing with cancer.
Each year, Care Camps Canada hosts dozens of kids of all ages with health problems in the hopes they can escape from the day-to-day medical routines.
Now, businesses based in the Tri-Cities are joining a provincial organization's cause and are encouraging the public to participate as well.
Auction 22 is launching May 1 by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA), which includes prizes submitted by several businesses — big and small — out of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody.
Care Camps offers an array of interactive oncology-friendly activities for kids to give them the chance to "forget about the chemo, the radiation, and all the hard stuff that comes with cancer."
"Through the camp experience, they can learn many of the skills necessary to meet the extraordinary challenges that they will face while fighting their disease," the non-profit explains, noting more than $1,800 a week is needed to send one child with cancer to camp.
"Since its inception, Care Camps has raised more than $18 million so kids can attend camp free of charge, with no additional cost to their already financially burdened families.
"Through its charitable fundraising efforts, Care Camps will provide necessary support to send kids with cancer to medically supervised cancer camps where they can have fun, build awesome friendships, feel the joy that comes from camping and spending time in nature, make memories that will help them heal and ultimately return home feeling renewed and filled with hope."
The BCLCA and donors brought in nearly $3,150 for Care Camps in 2021.
Items up for bid from local businesses this year range from gift baskets to dining experiences, including:
- a round for four at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club
- two $25 gift cards to The Coquitlam Grill
- a $20 gift card to Rocky Point Ice Cream
- a $50 gift card to Angelo's Salon and Spa in Port Moody
- an RV helper basket from Fairbanks Contracting
As well, the BCLCA is giving interested residents the chance to donate to Care Camps directly on its website.
Auction 22 is scheduled to run until May 29.
For more information on Care Camps Canada and its oncology-focused camps, you're encouraged to visit its website.
