As summer camp season winds down, many children are preparing to return to school. For some kids, summer camps serve as a temporary refuge, while for others, they represent the only stable environment they know. Camp Homeward Bound, a sleepaway camp in New York City, is specifically designed for children from homeless and domestic violence shelters.

Founded 41 years ago by a nonprofit organization, Camp Homeward Bound provides a safe space for children to experience a sense of belonging. Cici Johnson, now 17, first attended the camp at age 8. Reflecting on her experience, she said, "As I grew up in the shelter, I realized that I didn't have an actual home. Coming to camp made me realize that this camp could be my home for the time being."

Beverly McEntarfer, the camp director for 19 years, noted the challenges many campers face. "We've had kids here who have experienced abuse — physical abuse, sexual abuse. Some of the kids have been in the shelter for six years. They really lose their childhood," she explained.

At Camp Homeward Bound, childhood is celebrated. Eleven-year-old Elijah Martinez shared his experience of biking at camp, a milestone he missed at home. "Where I stay, no one lives near me. All my friends are far away. But here I get to train with my friends. It feels comforting, because I have someone to actually be with," he said.

The camp emphasizes character building and self-esteem. McEntarfer stated, "Here we do work a lot on character building, and just saying to someone, 'You're courageous,' just to help build them up."

After two weeks at camp, the children return to their lives in New York City. Cici Johnson, reflecting on her journey, expressed hope for her fellow campers. "I hope they realize that they do not deserve what they're going through. Yes, some things can be hard, but things will get better, even if they don't feel like it will." Johnson aspires to become a pediatric neurologist, inspired by her experiences at camp.