279 Kids Are Going to Camp This Summer—Thanks to You!

The results are in—and our community came through in a big way!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, partners, and staff, the YMCA of Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford is proud to share that this year’s Fill the Bus campaign raised $76,777, enough to send 279 children to YMCA summer day camps across our region.

Originally launched with the goal of raising $75,000 to send 272 children to camp, the campaign soared past expectations in its final days. Support poured in from individuals, families, and businesses who all believe in the power of camp to change lives.

“This isn’t just a fundraising win—it’s a powerful reminder of what we can do when we come together for young people,” said Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO of the YMCA of Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford. “We know that camp helps young people build resilience, confidence, and friendships. Because of our community’s generosity, many families can now give their children the summer camp experience they’ve always dreamed of.”

From canoeing and crafts to leadership games and laughter, YMCA day camp gives children a safe, inclusive space to unplug from screens and reconnect—with nature, with peers, and with themselves.

But this impact couldn’t have been possible without our people. A heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible staff teams in Health, Fitness & Aquatics and in our Full-day and school aged Child Care Centres. Your energy, enthusiasm, and belief in what YMCA day camps can do for young people made this campaign a success. You rallied behind this cause, spread the word, and showed up for our kids—and we’re so grateful.

Special thanks also go out to our campaign sponsor:  Bimbo Canada, whose partnership helped launch and sustain this campaign, and to our matching gift sponsors, Wholesome Kids Catering and Glen Richardson Plumbing & Heating, who doubled the impact of donations and inspired others to give.

“Camp is more than just a fun summer activity—it’s a place where young people can shine,” said Christina Martin, Vice President of Child Care, Day Camp, and Community Outreach. “It’s where kids try new things, make new friends, and feel like they belong. And thanks to our community, 279 more children will now have that opportunity.”

To everyone who donated, shared, supported, and cheered us on—thank you. Your belief in the potential of every child made this summer possible.

Let’s fill the bus again next year.

#FillTheBus #ShineOn #IgnitePotential #YMCASummerCamp 

YMCA Summer Day Camps offer children ages 6-13 fun-filled days of activities like swimming, arts and crafts, sports, and games throughout Hamilton, Burlington, and Brantford. Watch their confidence grow as they make new friends, have fun, and develop lifelong skills.

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