Media Release

May 26, 2022

$150,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant supports Campfire Circle’s COVID-safe hybrid programming in 2021-22

CAMPFIRE CIRCLE (formerly Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium) is rebuilding and recovering from the impact of COVID-19 with help from a $150,000 grant from the Government of Ontario delivered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation and its Resilient Communities Fund grant.

OTF’s Resilient Communities funding is supporting CAMPFIRE CIRCLE’s province-wide hybrid program delivery and the re-design of camp-inspired programs, helping the charity weather the pandemic and continue meeting the diverse needs of children with cancer and their families from 129 communities across Ontario.

“Social isolation for oncology kids and families has deepened during the pandemic, and calls for our services has exceeded capacity. By supporting the safe expansion, development, and delivery of hybrid programming in 2021-22, OTF is ensuring that no child is alone on their cancer journey.” says Alex Robertson, CEO.

COVID-safe program redesigns funded by the grant are supporting virtual programs, expanded in-person programming at SickKids Hospital, and modified COVID-safe in-person programs including Family Retreats at two overnight camps — near Rosseau in Muskoka, and outside Waterford in Norfolk County. Funding also supports the safe re-opening of camp facilities, the rebuilding of program capacity, and the re-engagement of donors, funders, and volunteers.

Media Contact
John McAlister, Director of Marketing and Communications
Campfire Circle (Formerly Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium)
jmcalister@campfirecircle.org
647-286-7675

Supporting links
• Ontario Trillium Foundation
• Campfire Circle

About CAMPFIRE CIRCLE:
Campfire Circle (formerly Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium) has offered healing through happiness for thousands of kids and families affected by childhood cancer since 1983. It’s where kids can be kids, and families can be families—engaging in camp-inspired community, in-hospital, and overnight camp programs, at no cost to them. As a privately funded organization, Campfire Circle makes thousands of life-changing experiences possible for Campers throughout the year, all across Ontario. Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium merged in 2020, and announced a new name in January 2022. We aren’t changing what we do—we’re just changing our name.

Visit www.campfirecircle.org for more information or join the online community on Facebook , Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn.