7/21/2022 11:40 a.m.

The Mercy Foundation’s Youth Diabetes program was awarded a $15,000 grant from the Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation to continue helping families in Douglas County.

Officials from Mercy said in a release this morning that the funds will be used to support camp scholarships for youth with Type 1 diabetes.

Sarah Baumgartner, with CHI Mercy Health, said the scholarships will give local children an opportunity to experience summer camp in a medically safe environment where they can forge new friendships, and enjoy just being a kid.

The camps also have a focus and self-care and diabetes management, but with a fun and relaxed environment.

Jamie Vanassche, Mercy’s Youth Diabetes coordinator, said, “We are very grateful for this grant. It currently has the potential to assist 70 Douglas County T1D youth.”

Learn more about the youth diabetes program, support group, and camp scholarships, HERE.