As the summer is fast approaching, New York State Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein says it is time to have an honest and candid discussion about opening sleepaway summer camps. In the larger context of the COVID-19 pandemic, reopening the state will be a slow and deliberate process, with the health and safety of all New Yorkers the primary consideration. With the proper guidelines and protocols, Assemblyman Eichenstein says that sleepaway camp can potentially be a safe option for our children this summer.
Assemblyman Eichenstein points out that sleepaway camps are unique in that they potentially are able to create a locked down and highly controlled environment. With the proper procedures in place, including regular testing and eliminating all visitation and camp trips, the children can thrive and enjoy a fun filled and relaxing summer – something they desperately deserve during these difficult times.
At a recent virtual conference conducted by CNBC, former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb recognized that we are “still in the early innings” while noting that “sleepaway camps have the potential to create a protective bubble.” In fact, the Association of Jewish Camp Operators recently sent a detailed COVID-19 Health and Safety Plan to Governor Cuomo, outlining a comprehensive list of strict protocols that can be put in place at every sleepaway camp this summer. These guidelines were proposed in consultation with a panel of prestigious public health professionals and medical doctors who are experts in infectious diseases. Assemblyman Eichenstein has acknowledged that initial conversations with the senior staff at the Governor’s Office are ongoing, but these conversations are in the early stages and there is still much more to discuss.
“Our children have spent weeks and weeks at home and are eager to spend quality time with their peers in a wholesome and happy camp environment,” said Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein. “While there’s no doubt that the safety of our children must be our number one priority, I urge Governor Cuomo to join us and have a real conversation about this. Just like the state found a way to open beaches, we must have a conversation on how camps can potentially work with the proper guidelines in place. This will benefit everyone – both children and parents.”
Assemblyman Eichenstein continued, “I’ve reviewed the guidelines proposed by the Association of Jewish Camp Operators and am impressed with the level of commitment these camps are willing to undertake so that they can provide an enriching and fulfilling summer to their young campers.”
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7 Responses
lets close the camps and blame Trump. its an election year
Why is everyone so busy with sleepaway camps WHAT ABOUT THE YESHIVOS.
CAN’T THE OUT OF TOWN YESHIVOS DO THE SAME PLAN AS THE CAMPS?
SEEMS THAT CAMP IS MORE IMPORTANT TO THEM THAN YESHIVOS.
Mr. Eichenstein I hope you are also referring to day camps in the city I believe Children Staying in the city should also have where to be instead of roaming the streets. and what about all of our Heimeshe essential workers? why are we not getting daycare just like all of the other NYC communities, our community should demand answers.
emes100-THANK YOU-THIS CAMP SITUATION IS PATHETIC-EVERYONE GET OVER YOURSELVES. SO WHAT-SO THERE WONT BE CAMP-WE SHOULD ALL BE WORRYING ABOUT OUR YESHIVOS-WHAT’S GOING TO BE WITH THE LEARNING?!?!
yes camps as seen in that video is one of the most important parts of growing up
This thing about askanim lobbying for opening up camps feels very unsettling. I don’t think its their place. Let the camps lobby together with the non-Jewish camps and camp associations. And if the non-jewish camps feel like that’s inappropriate, why are we different. I understand there are proa and cons for opening up and perhaps the askanim are right, but it just feels very wrong.
i find it funny bc i dont think anyone in the political world cares what Eichenstein says. ITs nice that he wrote it i guess but i doubt it will go further than YWN