How many times have you taken the opportunity to sit and listen to a young child, other than a family member, and listen to what is on their mind? It is an experience unlike any other in that their worldview is one of absolutes. Occasionally, they may request additional information before stating their beliefs; but are consistently emphatic about what they expect to happen in their lives.

This is the time of year that Star of Hope dedicates to preparing young children and their families to experience attending a week at Summer Bible Camp. The children are neighborhood children who have had life experiences well beyond their years and whose poverty has diminished life beyond what they can see, hear and touch. Most of these children come from families who have been poor for generations and who no longer dream or use their imagination. They have lost hope and sadly will begin laughing if you were to share your desire for their lives in this globalized world, nation, and city. Our goal in sending these children to Christian camp is to better understand and experience the love of God for them in Jesus Christ. We must never tire of having to demonstrate in tangible ways that children have purpose, meaning and gifts. Summer Bible Camp is not viewed as a round trip ticket to temporarily escape from the city, but as an opportunity to see the God of the city (and beyond), as well as to unleash a yearning for His redemptive, restorative power for themselves, their families and communities. Sadly, some children cannot or will not believe that their lives can be different from attending Bible Camp.

That’s where our member churches have the greatest impact. They have spent countless hours (months, years) in developing authentic relationships with the families of these children and can speak directly into their deepest fears and concerns. They can also attest to the level of poverty that envelops each situation. By the grace of God, our members successfully engage poor children in record numbers each year, and we are praying this year will be no different. Our ability to meet this annual need is dependent upon your support. Star of Hope will need to provide scholarships to 100 children to attend Camp Streamside this summer, and we are asking you to help us to be generous in our giving.

Not every child wants to go or is ready to go to Summer Bible Camp, but for each unprepared or uninterested child, we have several others waiting. Here are some facts to help you prayerfully discern your gift: 85 percent of children who attend camp have remained under the discipleship of the member church; 68 percent of the families affected by camp involvement are actively involved in the outreach programs of the church; 43 percent of those families have joined the member church, and all of these children are excelling in school. Star of Hope also requires families to contribute to the cost of camp attendance and works with the children through pre- and post-immersion programs to maximize the camp experience. We want our children to understand and believe that Jesus died so that they might live and have life to the full…absolutely.

God bless you,

Wanda M. Tugman
Executive Director