Providing a Platform for Children to Learn New Skills
Oak Acres Children’s Camp was founded in Murray River in 1971 by Sister Mary Henry of the Catholic Family Services Bureau. She purchased 180 acres of land from the Bonnell family and it was mutually agreed that this land would be used solely as a summer camp for deserving Island children in need. The necessary buildings were constructed and the camp operated sporadically until finally closing down in 1989.
A New Lease of Life
In 1993, D.P. Murphy Group of Companies leased the camp from the Catholic Family Services Bureau and is now in the 26th year of operation. Each year, there are six to eight day camp sessions with approximately 80 kids at each session (chosen by school Guidance Counsellors across Prince Edward Island) welcoming a total of 480 children every year. Children enjoy fun activities such as swimming, drama, daytrips, arts and crafts, nature hikes and much more. Cost and supplies used by the camp are graciously subsidized by individual donors and many Island businesses. The camp also has a payroll donation program where D.P. Murphy Group team members can contribute to help send a child to the camp, and in doing so help us reach our aim to help children:
Develop self-respect and confidence
Be a part of an environment wherein they can live together
Achieve physical fitness and mental well-being
Appreciate and gain knowledge of the environment
Use skills responsibly and improve their capacity for leadership
All campers are supervised 24 hours by trained camp counsellors with CPR and First Aid.
