A Life-changing Experience For Western PA Needy Kids - Salvation Army's Camp Allegheny Gearing Up For Summer Season

CARNEGIE, Pa., May 26, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania is gearing up for its 2017 camping season. The organization's 110-acre Camp Allegheny, located along Slippery Rock Creek in Ellwood City, is readying for its summer camp program that will run June 12^th through August 4^th.  Each year, nearly 1,800 needy children from all over Western PA enjoy not only fun and excitement, but also valuable character building activities. 

Accredited by the American Camping Association, Camp Allegheny and Retreat Center offers a diverse program including recreation, Christian education, nature, swimming, arts and crafts, target sports, gardening and farming lessons, hiking and much more. For many of these campers, The Salvation Army provides their only chance of a summer vacation experience. "In today's challenging economy, summer camp is a distant dream for many children," said Major David Rhodes, The Salvation Army's Divisional Youth Secretary. "But, because of the kindness of countless donors, The Salvation Army can help make that dream come true."

A seasonal food service program and full complement of staff provides three healthy meals each day. Through a contract with the Department of Education Summer Food Service Program, free meals are provided to eligible children during all camping sessions. This federally funded Summer Food Service Program provides approximately 9% of the total Camp Allegheny and Retreat Center operating budget, which helps keep the costs at a minimum for those attending. Meals are provided regardless of race, color, national origin, gender or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any USDA-related activity should contact the Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250.

All children from households that receive food assistance through the DPA Pennsylvania ACCESS Card Program or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) are eligible. The family size and income guidelines for free and reduced priced meals are as follows:

For information on attending Camp Allegheny and Retreat Center or sponsoring a camper, contact your local Salvation Army Worship and Service Center or the organization's Youth Department at 412 446-1545. Camp Allegheny and Retreat Center can also be reserved in the off season for workshops, reunions or special events. 

Celebrating over 150 years of global service as both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 129 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, log on to www.wpa.salvationarmy.org. The Salvation Army … doing the most good for the most people in the most need.

SOURCE The Salvation Army Western PA Division