Five-Day Program Helps Children Exposed to Domestic Violence

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Cuyahoga County’s Family Justice Center will host its second Camp HOPE America week beginning Sunday, August 1. Camp HOPE is a leading camp program in the United States tailored to children who have witnessed domestic violence. The camp focuses on building resiliency and helping children who have been exposed to trauma find pathways to hope and healing.

Twenty-two children referred from the Cuyahoga County Defending Childhood Initiative and the Children Who Witness Violence program are confirmed for camp. Funding comes from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, through the Victim of Crime Act.

“Cuyahoga County is pleased to once again be part of this important program. Camp HOPE is an evidence-based camp that offers healing and hope to children who have witnessed family violence,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish. “Camp HOPE is a program intended to create a safe and nurturing community for not only the youth involved, but their families as well.”

The camp will run for five nights and six days with activities including swimming, canoeing, yoga, team sports, ropes courses, crafts, and hiking, as well as team building activities and group discussions.

“After canceling camp last year due to COVID, we are thrilled to be back. We’re adhering to public health guidelines, and we’ve worked hard to put forth a safe environment,” said Jill Smialek, Manager at the Cuyahoga County Witness/Victim Service Center and Family Justice Center. “We know our campers will have fun, learn about resiliency, and find hope in themselves and in each other. It is an honor to host this group of children.”

If you or anyone you know has suffered from acts of domestic violence, sexual assault or experienced any other types of victimization, please call the Cuyahoga County Family Justice Center at 216-443-7345. If it is an emergency, you should call 9-1-1.