Camp Shawnigan redevelopment stalls after federal funding shortfall

Camp Shawnigan has been operating for 50 years catering to children, youth and adults living with visible and invisible disabilities.

A major redevelopment project at Camp Shawnigan has stalled after a $10-million federal grant application was denied, delaying upgrades to the long-running accessibility-focused camp.

The project, led by Easter Seals BC and Yukon, is part of a $25-million capital campaign to modernize the site and improve accessibility standards.

Family says camp has made a lasting impact

Zahida Jaffer says her eight-year-old daughter Shayna, who is autistic, has attended the camp’s week-long overnight program for the past two years.

Jaffer said she was initially anxious about the experience but the camp quickly became a positive environment for her daughter.

“She is autistic and Camp Shawnigan has always offered a week that is specifically for kids on the spectrum,” she said.

Jaffer said the experience left her daughter more confident.

Funding denial halts next phase

Camp officials say the project is currently in phase one, which includes planning work, a new dock, and reconfiguring the parking area.

The more extensive phase two, which would upgrade dorms, the gymnasium and dining hall, and add two new cabins, is now on hold.

Elena Lawson, the camp’s capital campaign director, said the organization was informed in early April that its federal funding application had been denied.

“We received a letter saying we didn’t get it but no explanation as to why not,” she said.

Lawson said the organization was told to reapply but has received little clarity on the process.

Questions remain over next steps

Lawson said the organization has since reached out to federal officials seeking clarification.

“We weren’t sure if our application was automatically going into the new grant or if we had to reapply,” she said.

“Unfortunately we’ve just been ghosted,” Lawson added. “The door has been shut and we can’t get through to them.”

Camp future uncertain this season

The funding shortfall leaves the organization about $14 million short of its goal.

Jaffer said the interruption affects families who rely on the program.

The organization says it will continue fundraising while seeking additional government support to complete the redevelopment.