Help Send Memphis Kids in Need to Salvation Army Summer Camp

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, April 28, 2010 – This time of year, children can only think about one thing - summer break. That is why The Salvation Army is gearing up and collecting donations for its annual summer “sleep away” camp, which sends local children in need to enjoy the fun activities of a summer camp.

“We realize the memories made and lessons learned at summer camp can last a lifetime,” said Major Mark Woodcock, Area Commander of The Salvation Army. “We recognize that some children in our city, for reasons beyond their control, do not get to experience the fun of a summer camp. Our camp provides a safe and exciting learning opportunity for children in need who otherwise would miss out.”

The Salvation Army Kentucky-Tennessee Division’s Camp Paradise Valley is located on Dale Hollow Lake near Burkesville, Kentucky. Children ages seven to 12 are eligible to enjoy a fun-filled week of making friends, participating in sports like swimming and fishing, and making arts and crafts. Children also learn about developing healthy relationships with God and others, while participating in songfests and campfires.

“Our camp offers a life-changing experience beyond the traditional recreational activities,” said Major Woodcock. “This program is important to our mission, as it helps enhance the quality of lives for children in our community. We are extremely grateful to the people in our city who have made this camp possible, and we believe the generous spirit of our community will make this year’s camp a success like in years past.”

Last year, 69 underprivileged children experienced the outdoors at Camp Paradise Valley thanks to the Memphis community. This year, a donation of $26 can send one child to summer camp for a day and help make a difference in his or her life. A $78 donation can help provide three days of life-changing experiences for a child in need.

This year’s camp will be held from July 17 through July 21.

For more information on the summer camp or how to contribute, please call Elizabeth Duncan at (901) 260-9130.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for 129 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar spent is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide.

The Salvation Army began its work in Memphis on October 18, 1900. Since then, the organization has fought hunger, homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse, and suffering caused by disaster. At the center of The Salvation Army’s work in Memphis are four core ministries: The Purdue Center of Hope, a facility that houses three shelters for homeless women and children; the Adult Rehabilitation Center, a work-therapy program for men; the local Corps which provide neighborhood outreach and support; and the Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, which once construction is complete, will offer programs in the arts, education, recreation and worship. For more information, please visit our Web site at www.salvationarmymemphis.org.

CONTACT:
Emily Fletcher
Thompson & Berry PR
(901) 238-7443
Elizabeth Duncan
The Salvation Army
(901) 260-9130