Newman's Own Foundation Pledges $1M To Rebuild Hole In Wall Camp

WESTPORT, CT — After a fire last week destroyed buildings at the facility, Newman's Own Foundation has committed $1 million to rebuild structures at the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, officials announced Wednesday.

The camp, which was founded by the late Westport actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, also has received a joint commitment from Travelers Companies, Inc. and the Travelers Championship to match up to $1 million in donations to rebuild the camp.

Founded in 1988, the camp is dedicated to benefitting seriously ill children and their families.

"All of us at Newman's Own were devastated by the fire," said Miriam E. Nelson, president and CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation. "I have encouraged my colleague and friend, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp CEO Jimmy Canton, to rebuild in a manner that not only meets the current needs of children living with illness and their families, but also helps them pursue their boldest dreams for the future."

No injuries were reported in the Friday evening fire, which the Associated Press wrote took seven fire companies 90 minutes to bring under control.

"We are deeply grateful to Newman's Own for their exceptionally generous commitment as well as their shared vision for The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp's future," Canton said. "We envision both new buildings that reflect the latest accessibility standards and innovative programs that areas inclusive and welcoming as possible."

Added Nelson, "We were particularly thrilled by the inspiring $1 million match made
by Travelers and the Travelers Championship. The community response to this match is heartening, and it's absolutely critical that people continue to donate to help this multi-million
dollar rebuild effort. Hole in the Wall was the first of its kind and we hope that our commitment
above and beyond the match will allow the Camp to continue to be cutting edge in every imaginable way for the brave campers and families they serve."

Through a variety of year-round programs offered at the camp and in hospitals and clinics, as well as in camper homes and communities, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp serves more than 20,000 seriously ill children and family members each year, according to officials.

Hole in the Wall is an independent, not-for-profit organization dependent on private funding to serve all children and their family members completely free of charge.

Newman’s Own Foundation has asked that the Travelers and Travelers Championship challenge
match not apply to its gift being announced Wednesday, so that the matching funds remain available to inspire further donations.

To donate to the Travelers challenge match visit https://www.holeinthewallgang.org/rebuildcampfund.

Additionally, donations can be sent by mail to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, P.O. Box 150448, Hartford, CT 06115-0448, Memo: Rebuild Camp Fund.