Camp as a happy place where I can just be me

Darius is only 11 years old, yet he already carries responsibilities far beyond his age. Living in poverty in Romania with his parents and five siblings, daily life is difficult. Their small home has only two rooms, beds are shared, and there is no bathroom — only an outside toilet. His father struggles with alcohol, and financial hardship places constant pressure on the family.

Each day, Darius helps care for those around him. He carries water from a relative’s house, feeds and cleans the horse’s stall, collects firewood, cooks simple meals, folds laundry, and helps care for his baby sister. Despite the challenges he faces, Darius speaks with deep love and concern for his family, often dreaming of one day being able to provide a better life for them.

But during summer camp, life feels completely different.

For one week, Darius is free from responsibility and worry. At Mission Without Borders summer camp, he experiences something every child deserves: the freedom to simply be a child. Through games, friendships, worship, Bible teaching, and caring volunteer leaders, camp becomes a place of safety, joy, and belonging.

One of Darius’s favourite memories is something many children might see as small, eating ice cream at camp. For his family, treats like this are considered a luxury they cannot often afford. Yet moments like these remind children like Darius that they are seen, valued, and cared for.

Camp also gives children trusted adults who listen, encourage, and invest time in them. Darius especially treasures the relationships he has built with the volunteers and staff, who continue supporting his family throughout the year through Mission Without Borders’ sponsorship programme.

For children growing up in poverty, summer camp is far more than a holiday. It is a place where confidence grows, hope is restored, and children are reminded that they are loved by God and not forgotten.