Camp Simcha floats into the lives of its clients

V THE CAMP Simcha summer day scheme is normally a godsend for families of children with serious illness. But with the pandemic precluding a group event, the charity brought a taster to the doorstep of homes where vulnerable youngsters have been shielded, courtesy of a touring float.

Festooned with balloons, the float made stops at addresses in Barnet, Borehamwood, Elstree, Finchley, Golders Green, Hackney, Hendon and Islington.

A balloon modeller and a stilt walker were among the entertainers and there was also music for a singalong. Each family received a gift box including craft sets, magazines and a smoothie-maker.

Single mum Gina Greenwood felt

Eli Pearl enjoying the home visit

overwhelmed by her children’s excitement when the float arrived at their Bushey home.

Her son Jake, 11 — twin to Harry and brother to Ella, 14 -— has short gut syndrome, which has had life-threatening complications over the years.

“I heard the boys screaming ‘Camp Simcha are here’. I went outside and it was the most magical sight — a rainbow of confetti and balloons. Then they both started singing along to Abba on the microphone. They were standing on the driveway belting out Mamma Mia having the most awesome time.

“Then came the gift box with the smoothie-maker, which was the best treat afterwards. It was such a great day for them.”

Ms Greenwood said it had been “such a hard few months, shielding for 16 weeks and barely seeing anyone since then. But the steady stream of treats and activities from Camp Simcha has truly kept me from breaking.”