Salvation Army wants to send kids to camp
One of the most fun summer activities a child can have is going away to camp. I remember having a blast every summer – 2 weeks of hiking, arts and crafts, sports, swimming, camping out and field trips.
But some kids in our area can’t go away to camp because their families can’t afford it. Salvation Army of Oklahoma City is trying to help these families send their children to Heart o’ Hills Summer Camp in Tahlequah. These camps provide nutritious meals, opportunities to explore nature, lessons in life skills, and participation in sports and swimming.
“Time spend at camp can be life-changing for kids. It can instill feelings of self-worth, open up the world and offer hope for the future,” siad Alan Hill, Salvation Army area commander, in a news release.
The metro-area Salvation Army is currently seeking sponsorship for 120 children for this year’s summer camp. There isn’t enough money to fill all these open spots. If you have the means, please call Heide Brandes at the Salvation Army at 246-1125. For these kids, this camp may be the highlight of their entire year.
-Erica Smith, Copy Editor
5 things to do with old toys
So Christmas has come and gone. Santa has probably brought your kids a toy (or ten) and now you wonder what you can do with all those toys your kids don’t play with anymore or have outgrown. I look at all my son’s baby toys and wonder what I can possibly do with them, as I am quickly running out of room.
I took some suggestions from friends and family and here are a few:
1. Keep them. If you plan on having more kids, you’ll be one step ahead and not have to buy all those toys all over again.
2. Give them to friends. Especially expecting or new parents. It will help cut down the costs for them and you’ll surely win friend points.
3. Consign them. There is a big consignment sale twice a year in Oklahoma City and Norman. It’s the Just Between Friends sale and they take tons of toys, clothing, strollers, you name it. They pay the consignor 65% of the sale. Not bad if you have a ton of stuff and would like to make a little back to put toward future toy and clothing purchases. Go to their Website to sign up or get more information. In Oklahoma City, go to http://okc.jbfsale.com. The sale will be at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. In Norman, go to http://norman.jbfsale.com. The sales will be at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. Registration begins in January and the sales are set for March.
4. Goodwill. 84 percent of the revenue brought into the Goodwill stores goes to their employment and training opportunities, which helps people find good jobs. Go to www.goodwill.org or your closest Goodwill store for more information on how to donate.
5. Infant Crisis Services. This local nonprofit helps the youngest of children. If you have baby toys that are gently used, they will gladly take them to give to families in need. You can donate new or good used clothing (preemie to size 6) and shoes, and new or good used toys, among many other items. Call 528-3663 or go to www.infantcrisis.org for more information.
These are just a few suggestions. There are probably many more charities or organizations that can take your children’s used clothes or toys. It’s one way you can keep giving, even after the holiday season is over.
If you have any other suggestions you’d like readers to know about, leave your comments here or email esmith@opubco.com. I’d love to share them.
~Erica Smith
