Reopening New Jersey: Summer camps resume in NJ

Monday, July 6, 2020

There should be many happy kids and parents as summer camps reopen Monday in New Jersey.

NEW JERSEY (WABC) -- There are many happy kids and parents in New Jersey Monday, as summer camps officially reopened -- wish several new safety protocols in place.

Some of the requirements include screening campers for illness, checking temperatures, keeping consistently small groups that always stay together with counselors, and using masks.

Camps must send their COVID-19 policy plans to the state at least 24 hours before opening.

The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge and South Amboy was among those reopening, with four locations this summer at Camp Munsee at the Metuchen YMCA, Camp SAY at the South Amboy YMCA, Camp Lenape at the YMCA at the Piscataway Community Center and Camp Oakcrest at Oakcrest Day Camp.

"The social, emotional and physical benefits camp provides are going to be more beneficial in 2020 than ever before," President and CEO Rose Cushing said. "We're thrilled to be able to open and to help children get active and make connections with friends both old and new."

In order to help keep campers and staff healthy and safe all summer long, the YMCA of MEWSA, following state and local requirements, has adapted several changes to its day-to-day operations including:

--Daily health screenings for campers and staff

--Smaller groups of campers

--Reduced capacity in group activities

--Staggered mealtimes to reduce crowds

--Cycling and rotating pool usage

--Keeping camper's personal belongings separated

"Safety has always been our top priority at the YMCA of MEWSA," Cushing said. "And while COVID-19 is unlike any other challenge we've faced, we're confident that by following guidelines set forth by YMCA of the USA, American Camp Association, CDC and state and local authorities, we will be able to provide kids with a safe, beneficial and memorable experience like no other."

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