More families than ever are asking for help to access camp
Hamilton, Ontario – April, 30 2026 – YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford is launching its annual Spring Giving Campaign, an important component of Y Saves Lives that calls on our community to help ensure young people and families can access life‑changing camp experiences at a time when financial need is growing faster than ever before.
Until May 31, the YMCA is working to raise a combined $90,000 through two connected campaigns:
Fill the Bus, supported by community donations and the Shine Together activation in YMCA Child Care Centres, aims to raise $65,000 to send 224 children to YMCA Day Camps and Beyond the Bell programs this summer.
YMCA Wanakita’s Spring Campaign aims to raise $25,000 in support of the Camper Assistance Fund, helping young people, families, and school groups access overnight camp experiences.
Together, these campaigns focus on one goal: removing financial barriers so everyone has the chance to experience confidence, belonging, and meaningful connection at camp.
Rising demand for camp assistance
The need for financial support has increased significantly across YMCA camps.
In 2025, donor‑supported financial assistance helped:
More than 350 children attend YMCA Day Camp and Beyond the Bell, and
Nearly 400 children, families, and school groups attend YMCA Wanakita.
So far in 2026, demand has climbed even higher:
YMCA Wanakita is seeing double the number of requests for financial assistance, including three times the number of Family Camp assistance requests.
YMCA Day Camps are also experiencing a rise in requests, including from families who previously paid full camp fees but are now asking for help affording camp.
“Camp is often seen as a nice‑to‑have, but for many families it’s essential,” said Manny Figueiredo, President and CEO. “It’s a place where children feel safe, included, and supported—and where they build confidence that stays with them long after summer ends. We’re seeing more families than ever who want this experience, but simply can’t afford it without help.”
Why camp matters
At YMCA camps, children:
try new things and explore their interests
build friendships and social skills
develop confidence, resilience, and independence
experience a strong sense of belonging and community
For many families, camp is their only option for a safe, structured, and enriching summer experience.
“Our camps don’t just fill summer days,” said Christina Martin, VP of Child Care, Camp, and Community Outreach. “They help young people discover who they are and what they’re capable of. Every child deserves that opportunity.”
Community‑wide approach to impact
In addition to community donations, YMCA Child Care Centres are supporting Fill the Bus through Shine Together—a centre‑led fundraising effort engaging families, staff, and local communities in helping more children access camp.
“The Shine Together campaign shows how deeply our communities believe in this work,” said Joel Côté, Senior VP of Philanthropy. “When Child Care centres, donors, staff, and families come together, real change happens.”
How to help
Community members can support the Spring Giving Campaign by:
Donating online at ymcahbb.ca/donate
Giving in‑branch or by phone
Supporting YMCA Wanakita directly at ymcahbb.ca/wanakita/donate
Every gift helps ensure children don’t miss out on experiences that build confidence, connection, and lifelong memories.
About Y Saves Lives
Y Saves Lives is YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. We will raise $25 million to double our impact to help young people, adults, and families build resilience through healthy minds and habits. Learn more at ysaveslives.ca
About YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford
The YMCA is a charitable organization that creates spaces to belong and promotes healthy living for people at all stages of life. Learn more at ymcahbb.ca.
