Prairie Mountain Health is organizing the 16th annual Camp Bridges, a weekend camp for bereaved children and teens, held in Spruce Woods at Circle Square Ranch in Austin at the end of May.  Camp Bridges provides a weekend of “caring, sharing and memories that help young people through the process of grieving loss of a significant person in their lives.

Carla Mitchell is the Volunteer and Bereavement Coordinator for Prairie Mountain Health and Palliative Care.  Being able to facilitate this kind of resource to families for 16 years is significant. "It is really amazing. It's one of those programs that has withstood the test of time and there's always such a need for this kind of program.  This program is to supplement the bereavement supports for children and youth."

The goal of Camp Bridges is to support children and teens with their grief and bereavement.  This is achieved through activities designed to help share grief and honour memories in a caring community environment.  The setting provides a safe, supportive and fun environment where grieving children and teens learn that they are not alone in their grief and are free to share their thoughts and feelings with peers who are going through a similar experience.

This camp is open to any child residing in Manitoba, aged 7 – 15 years. There is no fee to attend the camp.

The weekend program can accommodate 40 children and youth, and Carla Mitchell says there is always a waiting list.  "That just shows that there is a need for this kind of camp and this kind of program. Applications are now open, and they can be found on the website, or you can contact a member of our team."

Camp Bridges will be held at Circle Square Ranch, Austin MB on May 24, 25 and 26, 2024.

The application deadline for campers is May 1, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact a member of the Camp Bridges Planning Committee.

Camp Bridges is facilitated by dedicated trained volunteers who create a warm, fun filled, caring atmosphere where campers are able to enjoy the outdoors and grow in understanding of their grief.

Volunteers are needed for Camp Bridges 2024. Volunteering is a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of children and youth.

Please contact Carla Mitchell (204-578-2310) for more information.

The application deadline for volunteers is March 20th, 2024.

Donations are being accepted to cover the cost of camp rental, meals and activities, so that campers may attend at no cost.   If you wish to donate to Camp Bridges, please contact Melissa Peters at 204-578-2340 or mpeters2@pmh-mb.ca.

More information, including camper and volunteer applications are available online at their website HERE or contacting a member of the planning committee.

Please listen to more with Carla Mitchell below.