(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
YMCA Northumberland issues notice to parents and guardians on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 regarding their Summer Camp on their property in Cobourg.
Dear Parents & Guardians,
We want to inform you about an incident that took place in our camp area yesterday.
Although our camp supervisors conduct thorough site inspections every morning — and camp counsellors perform additional checks throughout the day, totaling 6 to 8 checks daily — an item associated with substance use was discovered by a camper on the far edge of the YMCA property. This item was immediately removed and safely disposed of, and an incident report was completed and shared with the camper’s parent.
In response, we are implementing additional measures to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of our campers and staff on our grounds. For the remaining two+ weeks of camp, to ensure every part of our camp is clear of unsuitable debris, we will be:
• Reducing the area of camp activity to a slightly smaller, more visible space
• Increasing the frequency of inspections within that area
• Clearing any objects or vegetation that may block visibility
Please know that your child’s safety remains our highest priority, and we are committed to maintaining a secure, welcoming, and positive environment for all.
Thank you for your understanding and continued trust.
Leanne Clarke
General Manager, Health, Fitness & Aquatics
YMCA Northumberland
(Editors Note: As an update and to be transparent. The e-mails Today’s Northumberland sent to Eunice Kirkpatrick and Leanne Clarke for comment were sent to their spam e-mail and they did not receive them until they read the story.)
Video – Summer Camp Program at the YMCA in Cobourg Dealing with Encampment
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
