Dear Friends of Scioto Hills,
The health and safety of our staff, campers and guests is a critical concern right now in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the recent confirmed cases in Ohio, and our Governor’s mandate to limit crowds and travel. We believe in the faithfulness of a Sovereign God who will “supply all our needs according to His riches in glory”. We also believe it is right to show good faith and obedience by cooperating with our governing authorities.
In Philippians 1:29, Paul says, “For it has been granted to (us) that for the sake of Christ (we) should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake”. I’m not sure Paul had COVID-19 in mind when he wrote. It is foolish for us to compare our woes to those who have suffered in the past. However, we do recognize that any hardship that occurs from this pandemic (and already has, since we have cancelled all guest groups approaching and over 100 persons for the next few weeks resulting in revenue loss of over $41,000), has been permitted by a loving Lord who desires to grow our faith and glorify His name.
While the coronavirus most often causes only mild illness, and the overall risk is low, we are committed to safety and are taking these concerns and mandates very seriously. We have already implemented some extra precautions as we continue to operate, though only for our small guest groups, at this time.
The Association of Camp Nurses (ACN) and the American Camping Association (ACA) are working closely with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other state and local authorities, as well as the Christian Camp and Conference Association (CCCA), to provide up to date information for camps and conference centers:
Camp professionals are urged to stay informed of recent developments (www.cdc.gov/coronovirus/2019-ncov/index.html provides the latest information).
Classic communicable disease personal protection practices help reduce exposure impacts from COVID-19.
The symptoms include: fever, dry cough and shortness of breath and can be present 2-14 days after exposure. The elderly and others with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk.
Prevention methods include: avoiding exposure, washing hands/use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cover cough/sneeze with a tissue and throw away. Frequent cleaning and disinfecting all “hand contact” areas is key.
While we have made the decision to cancel any guest groups approaching or over 100 guests (we will refund or keep their deposit for future dates) until further notice, we want you to know that additional measures being taken at Scioto Hills include:
1. Tissues and hand sanitizer available to staff and guests.
2. More frequent cleaning/sanitizing schedule of frequently touched surfaces assigned. (We are blessed with a committed and highly qualified housekeeping director.)
3. Posting additional signage camp wide to encourage proper hand washing techniques.
4. No self-serve food items. We do not serve food buffet style. (It should be noted that we already have the one of the cleanest kitchens in the county according to the health inspector.)
5. Provide additional guidance for scheduled guest groups prior to and upon arrival.
6. Immediately separate and send home anyone who would become ill while here.
7. Communicate with Scioto County Health Department regarding any reported diagnoses of COVID-19.
We understand that camp happens in close community. Scioto Hills has always taken great care to develop and maintain the highest standards to address a variety of communicable diseases. These plans are reviewed and revised annually. It is highly likely that current mandates regarding this virus and the control of its spread will change in days ahead. Scioto Hills will remain flexible and cooperate fully with national, state and local authorities as well as update our constituents and churches as new information becomes available. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Thanks for your cooperation and prayers for us as we work through the best ways to serve our guests at this time! We will not “be anxious (or panic), but in everything by prayer (we will) make our requests known to God”! We want to encourage churches and individuals to promote our ministry and participate in our upcoming events and to register kids for summer camp (our current numbers are at an all time high). We firmly believe that God is in control and we will continue to give Him all the glory! After all, “whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). That’s what Scioto Hills is all about!
All to the Glory of God,
Scott Bruns
Executive Director