Sunset Point Camp, located in Hull, serves as a dream ‘vacation’ for 300 children each summer. The children come from all over the Greater Boston area representing diverse cultures, races, and religions, the great majority from lower income households. Others come from homes where extenuating circumstances are present such as the death of a parent or sibling, sudden departure of a family member, or a recent fire.
The programs at Sunset Point Camp are designed around building life skills, including teamwork, leadership, self-discipline, self-esteem, sportsmanship, and good health. Campers earn points for participation in programs, appropriate behavior, problem solving, appropriate interactions with adults and children, getting along, working as a team, and being role models. Points earn campers coveted time on computers or privileges such as “first in line.” An Awards Night fosters self-esteem and rewards every camper for his or her strengths with prizes in categories such as Best Behavior, Most Team Spirit, and Best Bunk.
The camp sits in a residential area in the bay looking out on the skyscrapers of downtown Boston. It is comprised of two bunkhouses, an indoor gym, a caterer’s kitchen, a nurse’s station, staff bedrooms, an arts and crafts room, and a grand hall with a stage and fireplace.
Outside there is a swimming pool, a basketball court that also serves as a rollerskating rink, swings, the ocean bay for paddleboats, and a beautiful grassy courtyard designed for all sorts of activities.
Three meals and two snacks are served each day in the dining hall. Campers and staff sit together and eat family style while discussing the day’s events.
Many of the staff members are former campers who understand the value of the Sunset Point Camp experience and return because they feel the need to give back to the camp that had such a positive impact on them as children. Others are from Hull and surrounding communities.