Programmes
September 03, 2026
Bleu Blanc Bouge Camp: A week to spark something new
A first night away from home. A first kayak trip. A first hike through the woods. A first campfire under the stars.
Every summer since 2017, the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation’s Bleu Blanc Bouge Camp has offered Grade 5 and 6 students from the Greater Montreal area much more than a week away from home. It gives youth a unique opportunity to step outside their everyday routines, discover the great outdoors and embark on a true adventure in nature.
Shortly after the school year comes to an end, youth from communities where Bleu Blanc Bouge rinks have been built head to the Laurentians for a week at Le P’tit Bonheur de sablon camp. This year, 80 students participated, bringing the total number of children who have attended Bleu Blanc Bouge Camp since its inception to 717. For nearly 90% of them, it was their very first summer camp experience.
“When we think of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation, we naturally think of hockey, winter and our Bleu Blanc Bouge rinks. But youth need opportunities to be active year-round. Every child should have the same chance to play, discover new activities and challenge themselves throughout the year.”
— Patrick Mahoney, Director of Development and Community Investments, Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation
During their week at camp, kids are encouraged to try it all. Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, hiking, climbing, high ropes courses and archery: on the water and in the woods, campers take part in a wide range of activities that allow them to explore their interests, push their limits and often surprise themselves.
The goal? To inspire them to stay active, spark a new passion and develop healthy lifestyle habits they’ll want to maintain long after they return home.
Beyond outdoor activities, youth also develop their independence and confidence, as well as their ability to communicate, collaborate and build new relationships. Leaving the city, being away from their parents—sometimes for the very first time—and learning to live as part of a group may seem like simple life experiences, but they can be deeply meaningful at such a formative age.
“What we want to offer kids is a space where they can be themselves, make new friends and, for one week, put the challenges of their everyday lives aside. They can try new things, learn and overcome obstacles in an environment that’s different from their school or home setting. Often, they leave camp with a newfound belief that they are capable of much more than they thought.”
— Geneviève Paquette, President and Executive Director, Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation
Giving every child the same opportunities
Throughout the school year, the Foundation works with teachers at underprivileged elementary schools to identify students for whom this experience could be particularly beneficial and who would not otherwise have the means to participate.
For some, camp is a reward for their perseverance at school, leadership or progress throughout the year. For others, it represents a fresh start or an opportunity to have a positive experience after going through a difficult time.
The camp is completely free for families. The Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation covers transportation to and from camp, accommodations, activities and all meals, prepared according to a balanced menu developed in collaboration with Tremplin Santé.
Each camper also receives all the equipment they need to make the most of their stay, from a sleeping bag and flashlight to mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
This year, another surprise also made an appearance at camp: Youppi!, who came to have fun with the kids and add an extra dose of magic to an already very special week.
A week filled with discoveries, challenges, laughter and new friendships. A week to ignite a spark. And often, the beginning of something much bigger.
