About Camp

Camp Sunshine inspires hope for families affected by life-threatening childhood illness through our unique, supportive program at our beautiful campus on Maine’s Sebago Lake.

 

When a child faces serious illness, the entire family is impacted. Camp Sunshine’s mission is to provide respite and support to each family member - children, siblings, and parents. Since its inception, Camp Sunshine has offered comfort, hope, and support to over 60,000 individuals from all 50 states and 27 countries.

 

The families who come to Camp Sunshine have children diagnosed with cancer, retinoblastoma, a brain tumor, kidney disease, sickle cell disease, other hematologic conditions including immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), aplastic anemia, beta thalassemia major, thrombocytosis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (age 21 and younger). A bereavement session is also offered for families who have experienced the death of a child from a supported illness. Camp Sunshine also offers specialized programs for families and individuals with Fanconi anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, dyskeratosis congenita / telomere biology disorders and children who have received solid organ transplants.

 

Recreational activities allow children and adults to relax and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of life along the pristine shores of Sebago Lake. Games and other events foster family involvement, encouraging joy and laughter.

 

Moderated parent groups are provided during Camp Sunshine sessions and are tailored to parents’ needs. These sessions are often the first opportunity parents have had to share their experiences with others in similar situations. The groups provide a forum in which parents can gain insight and support in dealing with illness-related issues.

  

The Camp Sunshine Program is free to participating families.