It’s time to enjoy the great outdoors. For many kids, that means attending a summer camp. For one group of children in particular, summer camp can be life changing. Dozens of volunteers from the surrounding area get together for one week out of the entire year to take kids who have been abused and neglected out of their foster homes and treat them like royalty. One of the ways they do that is by treating them to a royal tea party. There is so much more, too, than a simple cup of tea for these rowdy youngsters.
Treating Them Royally
The girls pick out a dress from donated bridesmaid and prom dresses. They choose gloves and hats to wear. They are given a formal invitation to attend this special tea party, and when the time finally comes, the girls are beautifully dressed and glowing. As they enter the room where the event is held every summer, you can hear an audible gasp go up to the vaulted ceilings which are decked with banners and lace. Each table is decorated with colorful tablecloths and cloth napkins, fancy teacups and pots, and tiers of desserts and finger foods.
The grand hostess of the event is also made up in lace gloves and a fine dress and hat. She goes by Miss Manners, and she offers lumps of sugar while sweetly sharing advice on having the best manners at a tea party. The children rise to the occasion and beam with gratitude as they raise their pinkies up and take that first sip of Boldly Blackberry or Peach Paradise tea.
Inspires So Much
What does this do for the girls who attend? Much more than we have the space to share. Many of these kids come to camp with very low self-esteem. They have been hurt by those who were supposed to care for them and love them the most. They sometimes have behavioral issues as a result of their abuse or neglect. It’s a simple cup of tea, served elegantly, but it communicates to these girls that they are accepted, loved and worth celebrating. The dresses make them feel beautiful and make them want to act with the best manners possible. The changes are small and may not by long-lasting, but the memories will last their whole lives.
What does this have to do with you? Well, you can learn more about this camp. Or you can simply go a little out of your way to host your own tea party, and invite those who are struggling, feeling down, or simply could use a reminder of how special they are.