Funding For New Britain

December 22, 2021

$2.5 million was approved to make needed renovations and improvements to Camp Schade, located in Burlington, which is owned by Boys & Girls Club of New Britain. The camp’s deteriorating conditions have caused it to stop serving as a space for New Britain youth to enjoy fun summer activities. Presently, water and plumbing at the camp needs to be brought up to health code. Also, numerous amenities at the camp, such as the pool, require significant repairs.

I thank Governor Ned Lamont and all my colleagues for their support and congratulate the Boys and Girls Club that has been enriching young and adult lives for many years. These funds send a clear message that we are in full support of their indispensable work in New Britain and look forward to the same dedicated commitment well into the future.

The funding approval is the result of strong partnership between the legislators in highlighting the social-emotional and physical benefits that Camp Schade can provide youth.

When in operation, campers were able to come together for outdoor activities and explore the natural green spaces. The recreational experiences not readily accessible to the campers who historically came from lower-income backgrounds and marginalized urban communities.

The mission of Camp Schade is taking an even greater importance due to the social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The community environment would offer campers a chance to interact with other youth in a safe, supervised setting and participate in outdoor activities that they may have been unable to enjoy the past couple summers due to COVID-19.