Please join other SFI members in helping Pine Tree Camp build new cabins

By Erin Rice, Marketing and Development Director, Pine Tree Society

Pat Sirois invited me to attend a SFI meeting to share information about Pine Tree Camp, a summer camp for Maine children and adults with disabilities located on 285-acres in Rome. Just 20 minutes from the Maine Forest Products Council office, Pine Tree Camp transforms the lives of more than 600 Mainers each summer (watch video above). During their stay, their families benefit from a six-day respite. Often it is the only break they receive all year long.

The focus of my visit to SFI was to share Pine Tree Camp vision for the future and explore how the organization might be able to get involved.  I shared with the group that there were opportunities for donation of materials to benefit the construction.

Pine Tree Camp’s facility is aging and its buildings, many dating back to the 1950s, are poorly ventilated and lack the accessibility that our campers require. At the same time, our campers’ needs are increasing making our hot stuffy buildings not only uncomfortable but dangerous. In 2009, Pine Tree Camp embarked on a mission to transform its campus. A number of critical projects have been completed, in fact the project is nearly complete.

In July 2014, Pine Tree Camp officially opened the first of five new camper cabins. Two more are being constructed now.

The feedback from SFI members has been incredible. In fact, following the meeting both Huber Engineered Woods and Seven Islands made substantial generous donation of materials necessary for our projects. We invite SFI and Maine Forest Products Council members to join Huber and Seven Islands in support of Pine Tree Camp with a goal of having a cabin named for the organization.

“Seeing  the campers in the Pine Tree Camp environment is truly moving experience,” Sirois said. “Maine’s SFI committee is thrilled to be able to play a part in supporting the camp and the individuals who attend. SFI members have learned that PTC is a long standing member of the forestry community with their own working woodlot, certified to the American Tree Farm System. Proceeds from periodic harvests support the camp’s mission.  So when contemplating a donation, either of building materials or a cash contribution, please understand that Pine Tree Camp is not only an amazing place for the campers and families it serves, but an active member of our extended forest family.”

Please feel free to contact me or Pat Sirois for more information. Thank you!