By Nancy Fuller

We have had our Summer Day Camp in full swing for over a month now. The children are having a great time trying to “beat the heat” with outings to water parks, Tug-boat-Island and the community swimming pool.  We have forty children this summer and four wonderful staff members helping to keep them entertained, excited and exhausted when they can.  So far we have been to Spar Water Park in Sulpher, Elise’s Fun Park in Winnie, and the movies to see “Finding Dory” and “My BFG”, which they truly enjoyed.  The children shared in an indoor picnic to celebrate the 4th of July today with the Women’s Ministry and it was so sweet to hear the sound of laughter between the young people and our ladies.  We played silly games like “Over and Under” with a balloon and “Duck Walk” but the best was the musical ball, where a ball was passed around the table and when the music stopped, whoever was holding the ball was out.  There was so much excitement and laughter during that game.  I think the young and old alike really enjoyed themselves and it was an enjoyable time for everyone.

But, even with all this fun, we could still use your help.  We need snacks and drinks to give to the children twice a day.  We still need games, board games, card games and Xbox games and any other games.  We could use trucks and cars and Barbie dolls and her clothes.  We are always looking for craft supplies, craft kits and other items to help entertain the children and keep them going throughout the summer.  With the help of Flint Hills, who has given us a grant, we are planning a huge Block Party to end the summer program with.  On August 6, from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., there will be all kinds of things going on.  We are planning to have bounce houses, obstacle courses and slides along with cotton candy, sno-cones, popcorn and hot dogs.  And to top it all off, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. there will be a special “Doing the Most Good Praise Fest” featuring some of our local Rap Artists and bands like:  John K. from Port Arthur, Strada from Houston, Ministaz on Fiya from San Antonio, Phurious Stylz from Houston, Dre OG from Houston, Saint James from Baytown and Duane Smith from Beaumont.  The only cost for the concert is one school supply that will be used for our Day Camp children to prepare them for Back to School.  Everything else is FREE!  You will not want to miss this great day!  For those of you who have given this summer to help us out, we say a huge “Thank You” as we cannot do it without your help and support!  If you have been holding off to read what we need, here is your chance to come through.  Of course, a financial gift is always welcome.  We ask you to pray for our children, pray for our staff and stop by and see what is going on anytime you are in the area.  We would love to show you around and let you hear the laughter of children having fun also!  For more information on how you can help, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 409-983-2229.

Major Nancy Fuller along with her husband, Major John Fuller, are the directors of the Port Arthur branch of the Salvation Army, 3145 25th St. For information on how to donate clothing, furniture or other items, call 983-2229.