As a result of private donations and contributions, SC DHEC is pleased to announce continuing operation of Camp Burnt Gin for the 2009 summer camping season. The 2009 session will run from June 2 to August 5 at the Sumter County camp facility. Application packages will be mailed to parents of children who attended Camp Burnt Gin last summer who are likely to be eligible for services in 2009, and to community based organizations who have identified potential campers in the past. Applications and additional information are available from the DHEC Division of Children with Special Health Care Needs at 803-898-0784 (voice), 803-898-0613 (fax), or cshcn@dhec.sc.gov.
DHEC is appreciative of all the offers of assistance to assure continued Camp services this year. Notices of opportunities for volunteers will be posted on the Camp Burnt Gin website as needs are identified.
A Special Camp for Special Children
Camp Burnt Gin is a summer camp in Wedgefield, South Carolina, for children who have physical disabilities and chronic illnesses. From early June until mid August, Camp Burnt Gin operates five, seven day sessions for 7 through 15 year old children and two six day session for teenagers.
During the course of a session, campers have the chance to participate in a variety of programs such as instructional and recreational swimming, boating, fishing, arts and crafts, sports and games, fine arts and nature study. Each cabin group has the opportunity to enjoy an overnight camping trip in which they sleep in the woods and cook their meals over a campfire .
Staff members, in a ratio of one for every two campers, live with the children and assist those children who require help with their personal needs and participation in the activities. Camp Burnt Gin has two nurses in residence and a physician on call for specialized medical care. Balanced meals and special diets are planned by a registered dietician
Camp Burnt Gin provides a fun, safe summer camp experience to over 460 children who might not otherwise have the chance to attend camp because of their special health care needs. The Burnt Gin experience offers them an opportunity to meet new friends, develop recreational skills, become more independent and improve their self confidence.