4 days ago
Camp Barnabas reopens post-storm; campers thrilled to return
PURDY, Mo. — Severe storms in late April nearly ruined summer for some special campers.
Camp Barnabas, a unique Christian summer camp for those with special needs, nearly didn't open on time because of that storm.
'I just wanted to cry, and I thought they wouldn't have this place ready in time for the first week of camp,' said camper Kayla Jayroe.
Jayroe wasn't sure if she would be at camp this week.
On April 29, severe storms caused significant, widespread damage to Camp Barnabas.
'We had a couple of our activities affected. Our range had some trees down on it. It affected our older ropes course, not the new zip line, luckily. Three of our camper cabins had some pretty substantial damage,' said Camp Barnabas Camp Director, Brenda Brandt.
The storm downed more than 100 trees at Camp Barnabas. Most of those are placed in a secure area away from the main campground.
Within hours of the storm, volunteers were on-site, cutting up downed trees and making repairs.
'Honestly, everyone you can imagine was out here helping clean up,' said Brandt.
Thanks to hundreds of volunteers working countless hours, Camp Barnabas opened right on schedule.
'I was so afraid that they wouldn't have it done in time,' said Jayroe.
'We had so many campers that were like, 'Please tell me that you're not going to cancel my spot. I really want to come.' So being able to just let them in was a great feeling. Sunday, during camp arrival when everybody was coming in our gate, was finally a big breath of relief. We did it. We made it here, and we're ready for camp,' said Brandt.
Now, there's a new problem. For these campers, one week at the place they love may not be enough.
'I just really love it here,' said camper Laura Owen.
'This camp is like a second home to me. When I'm here, I just don't want to leave. It's just sad to leave, but I know I'll be back,' said Jayroe.
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