I was devastated to learn that a major fire broke out at my favorite childhood place, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, the night of February 12, 2021. A row of iconic buildings were lost to the flames, places where thousands of campers like myself spent hours discovering new passions and hobbies.
Though nothing could ever take away the endless memories and mementos that were made, we still mourn the loss of the physical structures that had become such a recognizable and comforting part of Camp. We knew that no matter how many months or years had gone by between visits, we could always return to those familiar places and reminisce on our time there.
This incredible Camp was founded by Paul Newman in 1988 in Ashford, CT. It’s a life-changing place where kids dealing with serious illnesses and disabilities can just be kids for one week over the summer, where they’re encouraged to “raise a little hell.” Camp is a place where best friends meet, friend groups are formed, lifelong relationships are made, and families find indescribable support. There’s no judgment here, only safety, respect, and love.
There’s a lot to be grateful for, as no one was hurt during the fire and other buildings were saved from destruction. As heartbreaking as it was to watch the live news coverage, I felt immense gratitude for the state police and firefighters who arrived at the scene from multiple towns.
Yes, Camp will absolutely be rebuilt. And yes, they are just buildings. It’s a known fact within our community that the true magical feeling of Camp lies within the people: staff, cabin counselors, campers, and alumni. We have a saying that “you can leave Camp, but Camp will never leave you.”
Camp is a second home, a safe space, and a refuge for thousands of current and former campers, as well as their families and caregivers. Camp helped all of us heal in countless ways, and now it’s our turn to help heal our beloved Camp.
Help us rebuild & double your donation: Click here (thank you!)
More information about Camp: https://www.holeinthewallgang.org/the-gang
News coverage: https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/12/us/paul-newman-camp-for-sick-children-fire/index.html
Well written tribute for a place that is your heart Jasmin.