After a successful inaugural year, Camp Molly is returning.
This joint initiative between Belleville Fire and Emergency Services and Quinte West Fire and Emergency Services will take place from July 13 to 16 and aims to inspire local girls into a career in Fire and Emergency Services.
Young women between 15 and 18-years-old can apply to participate in the camp whose name is inspired by Molly Williams. Molly was a slave in 1818 when she became the first female firefighter with Oceanus Engine Co. 11, in Lower Manhattan. After all the male firefighters became sick with influenza, Molly answered the call to duty and was recognized for her strength and resiliency. Her incredible story has been memorialized into the children’s novel, “Molly, By Golly!” and over 200 years later, Molly Williams continues to be known as a trailblazer in the field of firefighting.
Camp Molly provides the opportunity for young women to meet and engage with strong female role models in their community and the entire 4-day camp experience is free.
Eligible participants must be female-identifying students at local schools between the ages of 15 and 18 and meet the following minimum qualifications:
· be in good physical condition and have a positive attitude,
· be able to supply their own CSA safety footwear,
· be able to provide their own transportation to and from BFES Headquarters,
· possess a valid provincial health card prior to July 13, 2023,
· complete the online application form before the application deadline, and;
· be committed to attend all Camp Molly activities and required dates.
“This event is an opportunity for participants to learn about what it’s like to be a part of the fire service in a fun, engaging and hands-on way,” said Belleville Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services Monique Belair. “It helps develop confidence and show these young women that there is a place for them in the emergency services sector. I was so pleased with the success we had bringing the camp to the region last year and look forward to the opportunity it will provide this year’s participants.”
“Quinte West Fire and Emergency Services is honoured to host this event for a second year in collaboration with the City of Belleville,” says Quinte West Deputy Fire Chief Rick Caddick. “We are pleased to welcome young women back to the Hastings – Prince Edward Regional Training Center to encourage them and empower them for a career in Fire and Emergency Services.”
For more information and to apply, visit: campmolly.ca
Written by Joseph Goden
