Lighthouse Christian Ministries

Kidz Dayz Summer Camp

Lighthouse Christian Ministries has been serving our community since 1997 through five core ministries; educational programs, short-term assistance, health and dental, a resale shop and outreach programs.  Each ministry has its own unique and various facets that enables Lighthouse to serve a multitude of diverse people and needs.  Arguably, the Outreach Ministry has the broadest range of programs and serves a wide array of people with an entire spectrum of needs.

Kidz Dayz, a summer day camp is perhaps the most ambitious program the Outreach Ministry undertakes each year.  The program was conceived out of necessity in 2014 to make available breakfast and lunch during the summer months for children who were eligible for the free and reduced school meals programs in Bayview, Bacliff, Kemah and San Leon.  Students who have completed K-5th grade are eligible to spend four weeks at a local church under the guidance of Lighthouse staff and volunteers, but any child under the age of 18 is able to come and enjoy a free breakfast or lunch during serving hours.

Since its inception, more than 500 children have participated in Kidz Dayz.  Roughly 70 children daily enjoy breakfast and lunch while learning about new things.  They travel on field trips to The Aquarium, Bayou Wildlife Park, roller skating rink, and other venues.  A variety of guests such as artists, magicians, musicians, conflict resolution professionals, fashion experts, and sports figures are invited to make special presentations and entertain the campers.  The Kidz Dayz campers recently enjoyed a visit from a Harlem Globetrotter.

Since many of the parents struggle with transportation, On Point Transportation has graciously provided buses and drivers to get the kids to and from the Kidz Dayz summer camp.  Such an undertaking each summer also requires many partnerships with local churches and organizations for volunteers, chaperones and general helpers.  The Houston Food Bank and Galveston County Food Bank team up with Lighthouse to provide the food for the campers.  Aside from the nutritional support they receive while attending the 8a.m. – 12p.m. summer camp, each child is provided with Kidz Packz to supplement their nutritional needs on the weekends.

Kidz Dayz is a monumental task for all involved and approximately 100 volunteers will be needed to provide support for the annual summer camp.  Kidz Dayz 2019 will be held July 8 through August 2.  Lighthouse Christian Ministries is making plans now for the annual summer camp.  If you would like to volunteer your time, make a financial contribution, a donation of snack items or supplies for crafts or other activities, contact Marissa Reiter at marissa@lighthousecm.org or call 281-339-3033, ext. 301.

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