More than 40 diocesan Caritas organizations across Poland took part in this year’s Caritas Summer Campaign, organizing around 100 camps filled with recreation, education and opportunities for personal growth. In total, some 20,000 children and young people were able to enjoy a safe, meaningful and memorable summer holiday.
More Than Just a Holiday
The Caritas Summer Campaign offered much more than a break from school. The camps provided a space where children could develop their interests, discover new talents, build friendships and learn how to work and have fun together.
Each program was carefully designed to respond to the needs of young participants, combining leisure with educational, creative and sporting activities.’
“Every child at our camp finds something to enjoy. They can learn a new dance routine, develop their vocal talents or simply spend time actively – flying kites together, taking part in games or playing sports under the supervision of a coach,” says Agnieszka Styp, head of the camps organized by Caritas of the Łomza Diocese in Ptaki.
Creativity, Adventure and a World Beyond Screens
Across Poland, diocesan Caritas organizations prepared a wide variety of programs, giving children the opportunity to experience summer in new and engaging ways.
At the Caritas summer camp organized by the Legnica Diocese, participants entered the world of literature and adventure through activities inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince. The program encouraged children to explore themes from the beloved story while learning through play and shared experiences.
Camps organized by the Archdiocese of Gdansk placed particular emphasis on humour, emotions and adventure. Children were encouraged to be creative, build relationships with their peers and discover the joy of spending time together without excessive reliance on digital technology.
E
xcursions and themed activities were another important part of the summer programs. Some participants had the chance to go on sea cruises and experience adventures far beyond the classroom.
The summer program organized by Caritas of the Koszalin-Kolobrzeg Diocese was guided by a simple but powerful motto: “Live in reality, not virtually!”
Building Community and Growing in Faith
Alongside recreation and education, the Caritas Summer Campaign also placed a strong emphasis on integration and spiritual development. Children from different backgrounds had the opportunity to meet, form friendships and experience a sense of community.
Holy Masses and activities inspired by Christian values were included in many of the programs, offering young participants an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God and reflect on the role of faith in everyday life.
“The camps gave young people the opportunity to discover the importance of building a community of faith and drawing strength from the sacraments in daily life,” says Fr. Andrzej Mikucki, director of Caritas of the Łomża Diocese, which organized summer holidays for more than 3,000 children.
An Experience to Remember
Caritas Poland’s summer camps, day camps and trips are primarily attended by children from parish and sociotherapeutic centres, as well as young people participating in the “Skrzydła” (“Wings”) program, a nationwide long-term initiative supporting children and young people facing difficult financial circumstances.
For many participants, the summer experience means much more than a few weeks away from home. It is an opportunity to make friends, discover new interests, gain confidence and create memories that can last a lifetime.
“The Caritas Summer Campaign was not only a major logistical challenge, but above all, a beautiful example of how joint efforts can bring joy and hope to thousands of young people,” says Fr. Janusz Majda, director of Caritas Poland. “Thanks to the commitment of diocesan Caritas organizations and the support of donors, children and young people from across Poland were able to enjoy an unforgettable holiday filled with learning, fun and valuable experiences.”
The Caritas Summer Campaign once again demonstrated that a summer holiday can be a time not only for rest, but also for discovering talents, building relationships, strengthening faith and gaining experiences that stay with young people long after the summer ends.
SEASON-V, pixabay.com
By Family News Service / Piotr Kowalczuk