The province will contribute $7 million toward a project that will transform the Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan from a summer camp into a year-round retreat for those living with physical and cognitive impairments.
The $25-million project will see the eight-hectare property, located on Shawnigan Lake, upgraded and modernized.
Easter Seals B.C. and Yukon, which owns and operates the lakeside camp, says when the upgrade is completed, Camp Shawnigan will be North America’s first purpose-built, year-round retreat for children, youth and adults up to age 49 with disabilities.
Plans for the property, which has operated for the last 50 years, include 10 new two-bedroom cabins with kitchenettes, a hotel-style dormitory and a large community hall to join the existing gymnasium and in-ground pool.
Construction is expected to begin in the summer of 2025, with completion set for 2026.
Every summer, about 200 children with physical, intellectual, sensory or learning disabilities attend the camp, with equipment, programs and services tailored to their needs.
The redevelopment of Camp Shawnigan is also expected to serve as a model for two other camps Easter Seals B.C. and Yukon operates — in Squamish and the Lake Country in the Interior.
When not used for Easter Seals B.C. and Yukon programs, the facilities will be available to the community at large as a place of respite for individuals and families, or open to other organizations.
“I am so excited to embark on this bold plan for the revitalization of Camp Shawnigan and I am so grateful to the Ministry of Children and Family Development for the incredible support,” said Lisa Beck, president and CEO of Easter Seals British Columbia.
“͞This grant will allow us to push the boundaries of universal and inclusive design and improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of individuals living with disabilities. It will also enable the growth and future sustainability of our programs year round, while allowing us to offer services to other organizations, the corporate community and the community at large.”
“Going to camp is a fun-filled and life-changing experience that all children should have the opportunity to enjoy,”said Premier David Eby. “͞Yet many camps aren’t accessible for children with disabilities, and those that are fill up fast. That’s why we’re helping Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan update and expand its facilities. This will allow more children to experience the many benefits of camp while giving their families and caregivers the time they need to recharge their batteries.”
Easter Seals B.C. and Yukon is a service of the B.C. Lions Society for Children with Disabilities. Camp Shawnigan welcomed its first campers in 1976.
For more information, go to eastersealsbcy.ca.
