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Free camp will give Flint kids a break from water crisis

Roasted marshmallows
Brian Sawyer
/
http://j.mp/1SPGCl0

This summer, Flint children will have a chance to escape from the city's crisis with lead-tainted tap water.

Camp Joy will be held in southwest Michigan this summer for children from two areas of Flint considered to be especially hard hit by the water crisis.

It won't cost them a thing.

Reverend Jerri Porter of Dowagiac is one of the camp's organizers. She says transportation, clothing, toiletries and food will be included.

"We don't want any costs incurred to the families. They've suffered enough. This is our gift to them," Porter said.

The camp will be held from June 27 to July 4 on the grounds of Camp Baber near Cassopolis.

Porter says organizers are expecting up to 120 children between the ages of seven and 13 to attend the camp, where they'll have access to a lake, a swimming pool, a baseball field and other activities.

She says the 57-acre sleepaway camp will be a respite for Flint kids, where they can "rejuvenate."

"And have fun, be jubilant, enjoy some time away, and enjoy fresh water, running water," Porter said.

Porter says an informational meeting is set for May 19 at Quinn Chapel AME Church in Flint.

She says interested families will have a chance to see a video of the camp, ask questions and fill out applications.

The camp is currently looking for donations and volunteers.

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