How Camp Made a Difference for Jaylyn

We asked Rev. Sheryl Allston, pastor and hospital chaplain, why she used the Spain Grant program to send Jaylyn to camp. This donor supported program helps families in need send a kid to camp for just $50. 

How did you meet Jaylyn’s family?

I met this family when serving as the Maternal/Child chaplain at Christiana Hospital.

She was here from March-June with twins. She gave birth first to a baby girl who did not survive and then to a baby boy who stayed in the NICU for months afterward.

What were their challenges?

Their challenges were many.

First, this mother ended up in the hospital. She had a fulltime job and was raising 3 other children when she had to be admitted.

The second baby, the boy was not expected to survive. He did survive, however he has many medical issues. Balancing all of this with raising a family was really difficult.

Why did you believe a week at Camp Pecometh might be helpful to them?

The week at camp was a time to give Jaylyn a real focus on being a child.

I thought this camp would help him to connect with children his own age for fun and for play as well as hearing about God and to be reminded of God's love for him and his family.

It also gave this mother a break from juggling all that was on her plate.

What difference did camp make for the family?

When I told Jaylyn's mother there might be a possibility of Jaylyn going to camp she couldn't believe it. She began to tear up as I told her about Camp Pecometh.

She kept describing it as "a blessing" and gave me a big hug.

This is what Jaylyn said about his time at Camp:

This year I went to overnight camp. I had a great time.

I was scared at first when my parents and brothers and sister left. But my counselor Mr. Steven made me feel much better.

We went to Bible study which is where we learn about how much Jesus loves us. We went swimming.

Totally Awesome Fun! 

I had so much fun. I had many new songs to sing and share with my brother and sister. I had such a great time. I hope I can go back again next year.

We are able to offer Spain Grants and other camperships to kids like Jaylyn through the support of our generous donors. Our camperships are funded thanks to the generosity of our donors.

If you would like to help more kids have God-inspired, life-changing experiences, please consider giving to our Special Spain Grant Appeal. Our goal is to raise funds for 25 Spain Grants by the first day of camp (Juy 21), but we'll accept donations at any time.