Fun, friendship and a little Camp Chaos… two organizations wanted to bring horseback riding to kids at Saddle Rock Ranch. Then they made those dreams come true!
Since 2019 The Spencer Foundation and Kids Need MoRE have partnered on a day camp at Saddle Rock Ranch – a three week long camp, dedicated to bringing hope and a smile to children with cancer and helping families coping with cancer and life threatening illnesses. Kids Need MoRE is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, families and young adults coping with cancer & life-threatening illness – a perfect partner for The Spencer Foundation.
The camp is held annually during July at the Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) Saddle Rock Ranch in Middle Island NY. FREE is committed to growth, independence and community, helping individuals of all abilities reach their full potential. They own, operate and generously share their ranch.
Eligibility: Saddle Rock Day Camp is geared towards children aged 4 through 13 years; teens aged 14 through 18 years can apply to participate through the Kids Need MoRE BE MoRE U Leader-In-Training Program. It’s provided at no cost to eligible families facing a life-altering challenge. (Transportation may also be included. )
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- Child patients on or off treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses and their siblings (including those who are bereaved)
- Children who have a caregiver on or off treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses (including those who are bereaved)
- Children with a caregiver on active or honorable inactive military duty
Apply online for this year’s camp at https://kidsneedmore.org/application/. If you have any camper application questions email bianca@kidsneedmore.org
Activities: The camp provides opportunities for kids to develop skills, take on big challenges and try new things. Activities are inclusive, based on respect and fun. They include arts & crafts, nature, sports, STEM, caring for plants and animals, and horseback riding facilitated by Great Strides Long Island, another organization located at the ranch.
Staff: Our team works with caregivers and health care teams to ensure safety and medical needs are met at camp. Our staff includes child life specialists, social workers, healthcare professionals and talented individuals from every walk of life. Many are former campers. They have invaluable “been there” experience. As role models, they give hope that thriving-ship is possible!
Volunteers: We’re always searching for new volunteers! Go to https://kidsneedmore.org/volunteer/ to sign up.
Want to help but don’t have time to volunteer?
- Spread the word to family and friends about this wonderful opportunity so we can reach as many kids as possible.
- Keep up with the latest news here on our website
- And donations to support this work are always welcome – click here to donate!