Since 2021, Comfort Zone Camp has seen over 30% rise in camper participants who have experienced a loss due to overdose. In 2020, 1 in 5 children experienced the by the death of a parent due to an accidental overdose. (Judi’s House, 2022). In response to that need, Comfort Zone Camp is holding its first camp to support campers navigating that loss. This camp is in partnership with A Little Hope Foundation.
September 22-24, 2023 at Fresh Air Fund in Fishkill, New York
Camp Activities
Includes games, arts & crafts, bonfire, and Healing Circle support groups where kids can connect with their peers.
The Impact
Campers leave the camp “bubble” transformed with a community, coping skills, and new friends who “get it”.
“At CZC they don’t force you to talk about your feelings. They ask if you would like to share. Anything you say to your group stays between your group. You can’t tell anyone else in camp.
“They have fun activities like rock climbing wall, candle making, fishing, and archery. They are really fun and you get to do them for 2 straight hours.
“They have a bridge over a lake to a campfire. The day you go to the campfire you write a note to your loved one and then you toss it in the fire with your group. It helps because you watch the ashes from the paper go up to heaven.
“You can relate to everyone at camp so you are not alone. Everyone shares a close bond because of losing a loved one. It’s a good thing for a sad thing.
“Roasting marshmallows is so much fun along with meeting new people. They also have private meeting cabins for each group so you can talk privately with your group. Everyone has a big buddy for the weekend. I love it!”
Joey Virgilio, camper who experienced a loss due to overdose
