Charity group sending kids from Phoenix military families to camp

PHOENIX — More than 100 Valley kids from military families got an all-expenses paid weeklong summer camp in Heber, Arizona.

Kids ages 7 to 12 left Monday afternoon for all the archery, fishing, zip lining-type activities they could enjoy.

“We want to say thank you to the U.S. military for what they do for our freedoms, to keep us safe,” said Anthony Barnes with the Salvation Army.

“I know it’s a small thing, but to be able to bring their kids in and take care of them and protect them, is one way that we can give back and just say ‘thank you.’ ”

The Salvation Army and a few other organizations provided funding for the event at 27th Avenue and Van Buren Street. The kids are heading to Camp Ponderosa.

“It’s an opportunity for us to pour into them by teaching about character building, teaching them about physical exercise,” he said. “[It’s about] teaching them how to stretch their minds, their bodies, and their hearts … all in the same week.”