By: Christine Nicco/TRT Reporter—
Children living with HIV/AIDS experience a hard time as they struggle to have a care-free childhood. This disease’s physical afflictions, financial struggles, difficult treatments, and rampant stigma can be devastating to a child’s life. However, the campership program is alternative for children infected or affected with HIV/AIDS, according to AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts, AFWM, officers.
But, what is campership?
“A campership is similar to a scholarship,” said Jessica Crevier, Executive director, AFWM. “Individuals can apply for funding to cover the cost of attending camp, as opposed to school.”
According to AFWM, funding for camperships is available to children up to 18 years old whose parents are living with HIV/AIDS, or who are living with the disease themselves.
“What is unique about AFWM’s campership program is that we do not have a predetermined camp that applicants are expected to attend,” Crevier explained.
Camperships depend on generous donations to exist and to provide the needed services to their applicants. The program was formed in the fall of 2003, funded by a number of local donors.
“Funding for camperships usually comes through our Emergency Financial Assistance program, which is supported by events like the AIDS Walk/5k Run & Festival and the Viva! Gala,” said Crevier. “While other places assign specific camps for children to go to, the AFWM’s campership does not have a “predetermined camp that applicants are expected to attend.”
The freedom to choose is what makes camperships different and unique from other programs.
“While we are happy to provide information about camps that specifically support children who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, we feel that families should have the authority to determine which camp best suits their needs and those of their children,” she said. “Families can apply to literally any camp — day or overnight, near or far, related to HIV/AIDS or not — and AFWM will support them. Difficult treatments, concern about infections, strict medication regimens, financial constraints and stigma can make it impossible to enjoy a carefree childhood.” [pullquote]“While we are happy to provide information about camps that specifically support children who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, we feel that families should have the authority to determine which camp best suits their needs and those of their children,” she said.[/pullquote]
However, due to the program’s demand, the number of applicants depends on donations and who applies first.
“Because the cost of camps varies and we do not always need to provide the maximum $400 per camper, the number of camperships we can provide each year is not set,” said Crevier. “We accept applications on a first come, first served basis and will not deny any child who is HIV positive, or has a parent or guardian who is, for as long as we have funding available.”
The funding for this program is ongoing and although AFWM can recommend camps that specifically welcome children with chronic illnesses, families are encouraged to choose the camp that is right for them. AFWM can provide up to $400 per child. For more information, call (413) 301-0955 or email Jess at jcrevier@aidsfoundationwm.org.
