Red Barnet (Save the Children) has set a new record this year with their summer camps by offering holiday experiences to 1300 children and parents from economically disadvantaged families. General Secretary Johanne Schmidt-Nielsen explains that the organization began receiving inquiries in January, both from the families themselves and from professionals in the municipalities. This is earlier than usual and indicates an increasing demand for summer camps.
Last year, Red Barnet had 1179 participants, but this year the number has increased to 1300. This is due in part to an increase in the number of volunteers, which now stands at 400 people. These volunteers make it possible for more families to join the camps, which offer activities such as swimming trips, treasure hunts, and excursions.
The summer camps are organized in collaboration with municipal employees, who refer families to Red Barnet. Johanne Schmidt-Nielsen is pleased that so many children have the opportunity to create good summer memories, but she also emphasizes the sadness that many families cannot afford a holiday without this help.
This year, 48 camps are being held around the country, and two of these are specifically for children and families from Ukraine, who miss their homes and relatives. Schmidt-Nielsen emphasizes the importance of giving these children and mothers a much-needed break from the realities of war.