Summer Camps seek to find their way through pandemic
Ross Point plans to open with protocols
Swimming is always a favorite camp activity.
Marta Walker, administrative assistant at Ross Point Camp & Conference Center at Post Falls, said that with cancellations they have moved youth camps into July and combined camps.
"We are working on protocols to meet regulations with cleaning, sanitizing and dining room service," she said. "We purchased four automated hand sanitizing stations."
In the dining room, tables will be six feet apart and meals will be served by staff cafeteria style, not family style as usual.
"We are still working on details," she said.
Ross Point will offer three weeks of camps planned by the American Baptist Churches in the Northwest and will offer space for rental to groups.
It's possible Idaho will be at the end of stage four by then, with normal capacity of 50 to 75.
"Our number of COVID-19 infections are less than in Spokane, but part of the issue is that we would draw from Washington State, which has more restrictions," Marta said.
Ross Point hires summer staff and operates with volunteers leading the programs for senior and junior high youth the week of July 12, junior camp and children's camp (second to sixth graders) the week of July 19, and family camp the week of July 26.
Expecting fewer campers, she said they can spread out in the cabins to be six feet apart.
"Ross Point has been in a healthy financial situation for quite some time, so we will do okay," she said, "but we faced a huge loss for half of March, all of April and May, and most of June.
"We have emailed those in our database to let them know of the change of pace and plans to keep camp safe," she said. "Some are excited, but some are concerned about safety."
"Most of the activities will be outdoor in the sun and fresh air," Marta pointed out.
For information, call 208-773-1655 or visit rosspoint.org.
Copyright@ The Fig Tree, June, 2020
