Camp Happy Sands

Dear Friends

Camp Happy Sands is an Episcopal church ministry that supports lower income and needy children within the larger Pensacola community. Over a six-week period each summer it offers groups of children the opportunity to spend a week in a safe and exciting environment on the Bay behind Perdido Key where they are supported by volunteers and an Operations Director. Members of St Augustine’s have provided financial and ‘in-kind’ support to Camp Happy Sands for several years. We have purchased towels, swimwear, flip flops, back packs, games, books, crayons and markers as well as providing lunches. Members have provided bursaries to allow children to attend as well as general funding.

Sadly because of COVID Camp Happy Sands was unable to run last year and is similarly affected this year. The Camp site was also badly affected by Hurricane Sally and sustained significant damage which needs to be put right so that the camp can open again next year. There are also government required fees to meet as well as the all-important insurance policy.

Camp Happy Sands has operated for 53 years and teeters on the brink of having to close permanently because of a reduction in funding. Several of our congregation have witnessed at first hand, the joy and excitement on the faces of those children who participate in the camp and also engaged with the dedicated group of teachers and helpers who so willingly give their time to help these disadvantaged children. Please help us to support this really worthwhile cause by making a donation.

Checks can be made out to St Augustine’s with Camp Happy Sands in the memo line. The Executive Director Charlie Roose thanks everyone for their continued support and says “that with God’s help, they will be going strong again in 2022.”

Blessings from the St Augustine’s Vestry.