One of the nicest things about summer can be the opportunity to get away from our routines and enjoy a vacation. This year our SVdP Conference has had the privilege sending 14 children to Camp Ozanam, which is located north of Lexington, MI on the shores of Lake Huron. For over 90 years, St. Vincent de Paul has provided a free camping experience for eligible children who then get to spend a week experiencing nature, meeting new people and enjoying typical summer camp activities.

Our Vincentians followed up with a pair of siblings who just returned from their very first time at a summer camp and learned that they had a great week at Camp Ozanam. Both participated in lots of new activities. The girl really enjoyed the arts and crafts, and her brother was thrilled with a cool insect he found at camp and brought home with him on the bus. Their mom couldn’t believe her son didn’t shower the entire time! Both kids hope they’ll have the chance to go to Camp Ozanam again next summer.

It costs SVdP $500 to send each child to camp for a week. This money is raised at the archdiocesan level through an annual golf outing and dinner, small receptions throughout the year, and donations from parishes, companies and individuals. Our conference has made a donation to sponsor a camper, and we invite you to join us in supporting this valuable program that is a blessing for so many families. Checks for any amount may be made to St. Vincent de Paul/Camp Ozanam and dropped in the collection basket or parish office.