WATERBURY — No one needs to be convinced the 2020 Christmas season is unlike any other because of the pandemic. Everyone is trying to make the best of a bad situation.
Through it all, the Greater Waterbury Campership Fund can count its blessings this year thanks to the generous donations of individuals, large and small businesses, civic clubs and church organizations, schools and philanthropic entities.
With this year’s Campership Fund campaign now in its final two weeks, donations have nudged upward to $207,053. The sum is more than enough to cover the tuition costs of $38,646 for the 72 area underprivileged kids who headed off to various camping facilities in the state the past summer.
The target goal for the year had been $165,000. All funds that surpass what was needed for tuition will be applied to the 2021 campaign that will formally begin in a few months.
The Campership Fund, a 501(c) 3, is mandated to adhere to guidelines of no salaries for the all-volunteer board and no expenses, with every penny raised going to the cost of sending children to camp.
Specific appeals for sponsorships and donations to cover expenses of fundraising event are made by the board, holding steadfast to the intention of the fund’s founders 51 years ago.
The Campership Fund is a year-round operation so contributions are welcome any time.
Families who receive SNAP benefits or meet federal poverty guidelines, and with children ages 5 to 18, living in Bethlehem, Cheshire, Middlebury, Prospect, Southbury, Thomaston, Waterbury, Watertown, Wolcott and Woodbury, are eligible to apply.
Donations may be sent to Greater Waterbury Campership Fund, 389 Meadow St., Waterbury, CT 06722.
Contributions recently received for $350 included:
• Dr. and Mrs. Eugene and Judith Mirrer, Middlebury, $300
• Mr. and Mrs. Donald and Lois McGill, Cheshire, $50