Joining Hands
for the Homeless Children of Pasco

I was proud to be part of the closing day at the Kids Camp. We were treated very well, they feed us lunch before the event,
and we took some goofy pictures. Oh and just to let you know our very own Patty Cake fell madly in love. (pictures to follow)

About the Camp

It's every kid's summer dream to be part of a fun, memorable day camp experience, but it's not always possible for each child.
Joining Hands Kids Camp is helping to make this dream a reality for children whose families are experiencing homelessness
or financial hardships.

Children who will be in kindergarten through 5th grade this fall are invited to attend a week-long, full-day summer camp
from July 28 through August 1. This free event is hosted by numerous churches and service organizations, in partnership with
Community United Methodist Church of Holiday and Metropolitan Ministries of Tampa. Up to 110 children will come to
"Joining Hands" being held on the campus of Community United Methodist Church, 3214 U.S. Highway 19 in Holiday, Florida

Morning arrivals start at 8:00 am with afternoon pickup at 5:00 pm. Each day, volunteers will provide a hot, healthy
breakfast  and lunch  and present various learning activities. There will be singing, drama, arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor
physical activities, as well as many special events. In addition, at the end of the week, all campers will receive a new pair of shoes
and a back-to-school backpack filled with all of the necessary supplies to help kick-off their new school year.

Did You Know?

The Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County has released its latest assessment of homelessness in our geographical area.
Based on the report prepared by the Coalition, St. Leo University, Pasco-Hernando Community College,
and the Pasco Community Development Division:

There are an estimated 4,074 homeless persons
(1,426 children under the age of 18)
in our county on any given day in 2008!