A Magical #LovepopMoment: Camp Sunshine, bringing rays of hope to families in need

Every month, Lovepop likes to surprise one lucky nonprofit with a special #LovepopMoment.

August has us thinking about summer camp. As kids, there's nothing we loved more than those amazing memories created with new and old friends, appreciating nature. Bunk beds, s'mores, sing-a-longs — we never wanted to go home!

There are so many amazing summer camps out there, but Camp Sunshine stood out to us for their commitment to supporting families whose children are experiencing life-threatening illnesses, year round.

Founded in 1984, Camp Sunshine provides retreats for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The retreat, located in Casco, Maine, combines respite, recreation, and support, while enabling hope and promoting joy, for families throughout the stages of a child's illness through the year. They were recently awarded first place for the state of Maine in the Boston Red Sox Foundation's 2018 IMPACT Awards and were honored at the "Maine Day" Red Sox game on July 29th.

Camp Sunshine is dedicated to serving the entire family, free of charge, and includes on-site medical and psychosocial support. Bereavement sessions are also offered for families who have experienced the death of a child from a supported illness.

Camp Sunshine's extraordinary mission aligns with our values of creating magic and connections for people, especially when they need it most. In remembering our own summer camp memories, we thought that our Lovepop cards could be a fun alternative to the traditional letter or postcard from campers for these families to keep in touch with their loved ones back home.

Last week, we received a kind note from Camp Sunshine’s team along with some heartwarming photos of families with their cards.

“Lovepop generously donated 60 beautiful cards for Camp Sunshine to give out to families at our August 5-August 10 oncology session. Each family was incredibly appreciative of their card, and have big plans for how they’re going to use their cards! A few families said they were going to use them for birthday cards, one family was planning on sending their card to their grandmother, and many families said they were just too cute to send to anyone, so they are planning on putting them on display at home,” said Kayley Walker, Camp Sunshine’s Communication & Event Coordinator. “Thank you Lovepop! This was such a special activity for families and we are all so appreciative.”

Thank you, Camp Sunshine for all you do to bring magic to families when they need it most. We’re so pleased that we could bring a magical #LovepopMoment to the families at Camp Sunshine’s oncology session.

Want to learn about Camp Sunshine? Take a moment to learn more about their amazing work on their website.