Elementary-age children may have an especially difficult time dealing with the aftermath of the June 17 tornado, and Camp Noah will offer a program in August especially for them.
According to Christie Meier, associate in ministry at Immanuel Lutheran Church, children from Wadena and Otter Tail Counties can attend Camp Noah to work through the disaster experience in a safe, caring and fun environment.
"It is a camp that facilitates the emotional and psychological recovery of children after a natural disaster," Meier said.
Camp Noah will run Aug. 16-20 at the Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary School. The hours of the day camp will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch and two snacks will be provided.
Working parents can arrange to drop off their kids at 8 a.m. and pick them up at 5 p.m. This alternative schedule includes breakfast as well as the lunch and two snacks.
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Camp Noah is designed for children first grade (entering) through sixth grade (completed) who have been affected by the June 17 tornado -- from losing their own house, to knowing someone else with a damaged house, to worrying about their parents' safety, to any other way they might have been traumatized.
The day camp will feature group activities, trained volunteers and T-Bear the therapy dog.
Camp Noah is operated by Lutheran Social Services, but they will use a neutral, secular curriculum.
The cost is $5 for one child for the whole week. The maximum charge per family is $10.
Volunteers are needed.
Meier said applications for both kids and volunteers are available at church offices, swimming lessons, kids club and a booth at the Wadena County Fair.
Those interested may also pick up applications from Meier in person.
To contact Meier, call (218) 371-1515.
