Summer camp cancellations part of tough year for Easter Seals N.L.
But fundraising lottery, virtual programs still going ahead
To say it’s been a difficult year for Easter Seals Newfoundland and Labrador would be an understatement.
“It’s been a long haul, that’s for sure,” CEO Mark Bradbury told The Telegram. “It certainly hasn’t been easy.”
The unfortunate events began last July, when an overnight flood caused major damage to the association’s main building, Easter Seals House, on Mount Scio Road in St. John’s.
Participants and staff were permitted back two months later, following renovations. However, not long after that, further problems with the gymnasium floor meant it had to be replaced, and the building was closed again.
Soon after, Snowmegeddon hit the region, forcing the closure of the building and putting more than 20 programs and services on hold once again.
Things had been up and running until the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused the entire world to come to a standstill.
It’s all proven to be a major blow to the organization, which helps more than 1,000 participants who have autism, or developmental, cognitive and physical disabilities.
“If I need a break and get out of the house, I quickly slip on my walking shoes, a jacket, a hat and gloves and go for a walk. Whereas, for these families, it’s not that easy,” Bradbury said.
“It’s really impacting our participants, the kids and young adults, and their families because Easter Seals is the outlet for them. It’s a break for the families, for parents, across the province who need it.”
It’s for that reason, Bradbury said, it was extremely difficult to deliver the news that all 2020 Easter Seals summer camps have been cancelled.
“It was tough, but we had to be fair to our camp counsellors and let them know early so they can look for other jobs,” he said, also noting the importance of keeping everyone safe.
Jeanine Hannah Mcdonald is one of those parents who looked forward to the camps. Her 10-year-old daughter, Claire, who has cerebral palsy, epilepsy and autism, benefitted from the social interaction and physical activities, she said, while parents get support from other families and a much-needed break.
“It’s very disappointing. We look forward to these camps so much,” said Mcdonald, whose daughter has been involved with Easter Seals for eight years, participating in such activities as wheelchair basketball, swimming and sledge hockey. “For us, these camps were the only time we get a family vacation. Families from all over the province come together for these camps and we really look forward to seeing everyone.
“For parents and kids involved in Easter Seals, we’re like family ... and the (staff and administrators) are amazing human beings.”
Bradbury said it’s also been difficult for the association’s fundraising efforts. However, the Easter Seals luxury cabin lottery is scheduled to launch May 4, with tickets to be available online.
The association will also offer virtual programs and camps, with at-home interactions, including sing-alongs, to be provided through Easter Seals Ontario.