First season of Camp Christopher coming to a close after creating a sense of community

A special place along the Paleface River is giving people a chance to grieve and heal after a suicide.

It’s called Camp Christopher.

Dave Endicott bought the property as a birthday present for his wife. But they live a few hours away, and realized they can’t be here as often.

“I thought, it’s a shame this beautiful property is not being used in some form. On a whim, I thought I’d make a Facebook post and say if you’ve been impacted by suicide or mental illness, we’ll share this space and you can camp for free,” he told us.

The response was overwhelming. People poured their hearts out about their loved ones or personal experiences.

The camp has been full all year long. It’s named for Dave’s brother, who died by suicide nearly two years ago.

There is a pear tree planted in his memory on the property.

It’s just one of the additions that have become part of the landscape.

“Every single person who stays here, has done something to make it better for the next family who comes,” Endicott added.

Some have put notes in a journal. Others have left painted rocks with encouraging messages.

“People need a safe space to share that story,” Endicott said.

Old School Lives in Cotton has offered up the use of their showers.

There is an end of season potluck coming up on Sunday, October 22nd, at 1pm.

They’ll start taking reservations again in January.

For more information: https://www.campchriscotton.com/