Danielle Juenke’s two daughters, Chastity and Freyja, say the thought of spending a week at camp is both thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking.
This summer, thanks to the Winnipeg Free Press Sunshine Fund, their dreams are coming true.
“I never thought it would be possible,” said Juenke, a stay-at-home mom. “With only one income, we just couldn’t afford to send them to camp on our own. The fund has made it a reality for us.”
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Chastity, Freyja and Ralph with dad Shane. Chastity is off to Circle Square Ranch, this summer while Freyja will visit Camp Wannakumbac.
The Sunshine Fund, which subsidizes camp fees for low-income families, has been instrumental in allowing children like Chastity, 14, and Freyja, 9, to experience the joy and adventure of summer camp for over 40 years. Each year, MCA, through the Sunshine Fund, sends approximately 600 children to various camp programs across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario.
“This will be their first time going to camp,” said Juenke. “Chastity is heading to Circle Square Ranch, and Freyja is off to Camp Wannakumbac.”
Chastity says she’s excited to see horses. “I love horses, so I can’t wait to spend time with them,” she said. “And honestly, I’m looking forward to getting away from my little sister for a bit,” she said with a laugh.
Freyja, a bit more reserved, expressed her excitement about the food and activities. “I hope they have noodles,” she said. “And I’m excited to see the trees and animals.”
The anticipation of new experiences is palpable in the Juenke household. “They might not show it all the time, but they’re thrilled,” said Juenke. “As soon as school was out, it was a constant countdown to camp.”
Juenke said the benefits of camp go beyond just the children’s enjoyment. “Having four kids running around the house is a lot. When they’re at camp, I get a bit of a break, it’s a chance to recharge,” she said. “It’s a win-win situation. The girls get to have fun and learn, and I get a breather.”
Juenke appreciates how camp also teaches valuable life skills. “When you’re at home, chores are just chores. But at camp, they’re a shared responsibility. It builds a sense of community and accountability,” she said.
“I remember my own camp experiences fondly. Even though I didn’t stay friends with everyone I met, it was such a great feeling to be away from home, making new friends and having new experiences.”
When asked what they would like to say to the donors who made their camp experience possible, Freyja shyly said, “Thank you.”
Juenke expressed the gratitude further. “These opportunities mean the world to us, and the generosity of the community is making a big difference in our lives.”
As Chastity and Freyja prepare for their camp adventures, Danielle is hopeful for the future. “I’m sure Freyja will cry when I drop her off, but I can guarantee she’ll cry even harder when it’s time to leave because she won’t want to come home,” she said.
thandi.vera@freepress.mb.ca