Helping kids with cancer thrive
Alberta’s government is supporting young Albertans struggling with cancer by investing in Camp Kindle.
Camp Kindle is Alberta’s only camp dedicated, and medically equipped, to care for children with cancer, which is why Alberta’s government is providing $500,000 to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta to expand capacity and accessibility at the camp. This investment will help Camp Kindle replace and upgrade its facilities to create a central hub for diverse and accessible indoor activities, ensuring everyone can safely participate.
Minister Nixon, along with families and donors, at the groundbreaking of Camp Kindle’s expansion and accessibility project near Water Valley. Photo credit: Don Molyneaux Photography.
This funding, which will expand Camp Kindle’s capacity to better support young people affected by cancer and help them thrive, exemplifies the Alberta government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and their families.
“The Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta does incredible work to help young people affected by cancer. We are lucky to have such a world-class organization here in Alberta that brings hope and support to children and families when they need it most. I know this funding will play a key role for Camp Kindle in expanding its capacity to impact the lives of more young Albertans across the province,” Said Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services.
The Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta offers more than 20 year-round summer camp and outreach programs, along with education support programs and services for Alberta families. Camp Kindle is the only accredited oncology camp in Alberta and is equipped with a modern medical centre, where campers receive specialized care, daily medications or other routine medical procedures.
“We’re deeply grateful to the individuals, businesses and government that have given to this project, which is so important in the lives of children with cancer. Pediatric cancer interrupts the normal course of childhood. Kids with cancer miss out on play dates, school, sports and so many extracurricular opportunities. Camp Kindle gives these kids a chance to get outdoors in nature and be with other kids on a similar journey. They develop skills, build resilience and make lifelong friendships at Camp Kindle. It plays a huge role in their development and their ability to cope with the lasting impact of this disease,” commented Tracey Martin, CEO, Kids Cancer Care.
Dean Duffin, Sam’s father and chair of the Kids Cancer Care Board of Directors said, “Camp Kindle was our kids’ first camp experience once Sam was done treatment. It was amazing for them to have a shared adventure together after so much time spent apart due to hospital stays and side effects from treatment. The kids love camp. They love all the cool counsellors, the colour wars games, the campfire songs and the delicious camp meals!”