Camp Simcha is all art for clients

V CAMP SIMCHA is appealing for arts, crafts and creative toys and games to send to families with seriously ill children at home and in hospital.

“We want to get as many as possible of these items to families who are isolating,” head of services Daniel Gillis said. “It really does make a difference to the families and helps relieve a bit of the enormous added stress they are facing.

“We have set up collection points in Edgware, Hendon, Golders Green and Woodside Park.”

The charity’s art teachers and therapists are holding virtual sessions with families and there is also virtual counselling.

“We have had three new referrals this week who we have had virtual visits with and demand for our crisis food has gone up 70 per cent.

“One of our family liaison officers sent out dinner and a Kindle to a family, as well as arts and crafts. The father was overwhelmed to receive it and said it helped to know that Camp Simcha was still supporting them, finding ways to bring some normality and make them feel they aren’t alone.”

Manchester mum Rifka Stern sent a message and photo to the charity, noting “four very happy children. Thanks so much for sending. It’s amazing to have something new to keep them busy. They are all so happy with it.”

Anyone able to donate arts and crafts items should contact Laurie@ campsimcha.org.uk.

The initiative is part of efforts to assist families, Camp Simcha having suspended direct contact between the seriously ill children it supports and volunteers on health advice.

Chief executive Neville Goldschneider said: “We know this is an incredibly worrying time for parents we support, many of whom are already in the midst of crises and really benefit from the time their children have with our volunteers.

“We are finding creative ways to keep making a difference. Our volunteer big brothers and sisters will still be in regular contact with children via technology and phones, giving them dedicated one-to-one attention with activities and companionship.”

We know this is a worrying time for the parents we support’