West Nipissing is exploring a new partnership to fill the void after the summer day camp program was discontinued.
The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is proposing to run a camp out of the Sports Hall of Fame where campers would be near the pool, fields, and other amenities.
The YMCA will need a response from the Mayor and Council soon if the intention is to have the summer day camp program up and running for this year.
Renee-Anne Paquette, the Coordinator of Community Services says that the YMCA makes a good partner. The Sports Hall of Fame and fields are not booked at the times the campers are proposed to use them. One drawback, says Paquette, is the anticipation that registration fees may be higher under the YMCA. She adds that subsidies are available to families in need.
Paquette also suggests that discussions with the YMCA suggest the camp would continue the community partnerships developed by the former municipal camp, such as trips to Leisure Farms or the fire hall.
The YMCA also seems likely to fill some of the service gaps in local childcare by running PD Day and March Break camps.