SPOKANE — Families forced to evacuate their homes due to devastating wildfires in Spokane had access to a free day camp on Monday designed to support their children during this crisis.
Spokane Public Schools launched the emergency day camp at Shadle Park High School, offering a safe space for kids ages 4 and up to participate in recreational activities while their parents and caregivers get a much-needed break.
“This is an extremely traumatic event for everyone, particularly our kids. And some sense of normalcy and some sense of play is really important in this moment,” said Adam Swinyard, superintendent of Spokane Public Schools. “We also know that parents and caregivers, they need a little bit of a reprieve.”
The camp provided games, coloring activities, and gym programs tailored for children of all ages. Staff members focus on creating an environment where kids can decompress and engage in age-appropriate activities while families navigate the uncertainty and stress of displacement.
“It’s set an example of everybody really trying to rally around each other in a hard moment,” Swinyard said.
Parents have expressed gratitude for the resource, recognizing the value of having programs available to support their families—especially their children—during an uncertain period. The one-day camp addressed both the immediate emotional needs of children and the practical relief parents require as they manage evacuation logistics and recovery efforts.
Spokane Public Schools announced Monday evening the free kids day camp will run through August 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Children do not need to be enrolled in the school district or live within district boundaries to attend.
Beyond the day camp, Spokane Public Schools is expanding its support services. A resource fair is scheduled for Wednesday to provide essential necessities to families affected by the evacuation or displacement.
For more information on the free kids camp, click here.
This article has been updated to include SPS’s announcement that the day camp will run all week.
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