Ancaster groups cancel summer camps in wake of COVID-19
As Hamilton enters Stage 2 of the coronavirus pandemic reopening process, the city is expected to allow youth day camps, but in a way that conforms to the province’s strict health and safety protocols.
Emergency Operations Centre Director Paul Johnson said in May that city staff is investigating how to create a reduced day camp program for July and August that would also incorporate safety measures, including physical distancing.
“The reality is, when it is inclement (weather) or raining (and) we have to go inside, we will have to work through those things,” said Johnson. “The major modification for us this year will be the number of people we are able to service through those summer camp programs.”
Under a modified summer day camp program, the city will not be able to accommodate all children who apply for the camps.
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Hamilton has operated Camp Kidaca for a number of years that attracts children aged four to 15 at various community centres across the city, including the Ancaster Rotary Centre.
The Ontario government has already provided strict guidelines that have been crafted with public health units. Measures include limiting toys to prevent the spread of bacteria; a limit of 10 individuals, including staff and youth; cleaning of all play equipment; establishing protocols to manage any positive coronavirus tests; encouraging physical distancing; a ban on travelling for activities; ensuring campers have their own water bottles; and screening all youth, staff, visitors and parents.
Overnight camps have been prohibited this summer by the government.
The province doubled the number of people who can gather together as of June 12, allowing up to 10 people who are not from the same household to get together.
The city has informed organizations that once Hamilton is allowed to enter Stage 2 of the reopening process, day camp programs must adhere to provincial guidelines.
The city will not conduct any pre-opening inspections by public health, and organizations are not required to inform public health officials on reopening plans.
Most Ancaster organizations have already cancelled any day camps for the summer, including the Hamilton All-Star Jazz, Theatre Ancaster and the Ancaster Agricultural Society, which cancelled its Ancaster Fair Summer Camp.
“Unfortunately, with the uncertainty of how the province will proceed with child care programming we were not able to delay this decision any longer,” said Tammy Quinn, secretary/treasurer and manager of the Ancaster Agricultural Society.
“We look forward to returning in 2021 with our fabulous program of agriculture-based summer camp including farm animals and our low ropes course.”
Liz Hooker, Ancaster Soccer business manager, said the organization still plans on holding its Heritage Days tournament Sept. 18-20, after moving it from its usual June schedule.
“We are still waiting on Ontario soccer to let us know if/when anything else can be planned,” she said.
The Ancaster Tennis Club, while open only for single players, is not holding any clinics or camps. It states on the website that any children must be members to participate at the club. The clubhouse is closed and there are no washrooms. The club is also asking on its website for members to sign a specific COVID-19 “Waiver Form” before participating.
Ancaster Christian Reformed Church states on its website that because of the pandemic, its Vacation Bible School is not being held this year. The church is also closed for worship and activities.
Camp Mi-A-Kon-Da, a summer camp for girls held in Parry Sound, with its headquarters located on Mineral Springs Road in Dundas, has cancelled all camp sessions for the 2020 summer.
“No matter the experts we spoke to or how many fingers and toes we crossed, we knew that camps would continue to be considered a significant risk factor for spreading COVID-19,” stated the organizers in a message on its website.
The Canterbury Hills Camp, located on Lions Club Road, has also cancelled its 2020 summer season, which impacts the day camp, overnight camp and adventure camp.
“We feel that this is the best decision as we want to ensure the health and safety of all of our campers and staff members,” stated Emily Lloyd, Canterbury Hills Camp director.
STORY BEHIND THE STORY: With summer upon us, we wanted to look into what recreational opportunities will be available for youth in spite of the pandemic.