The #Break4HASC challenge has swept through the Jewish community as celebrities, business and regular individuals have all taken time out of their day to “take a break” and raise awareness on behalf of Camp HASC.

Customers at Mendelsohn’s Pizza took a break from their midday munch. KRM Supermarket in Borough Park temporarily shuttered their doors mid-day, as did countless other community shops and centers. All this in support of one of the most extraordinary places on earth: Camp HASC.

Camp HASC is a magical place, a remarkable summer camp that provides hundreds of children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the summer of their lives. Otherwise challenged children can take a break from their routine and be regular campers. For their families, Camp HASC provides a much-needed respite.

“We always feel a tremendous sense of gratitude to the camp and its staff for providing such a wonderful experience where our child can thrive, and a needed and welcome respite for us as well,” an appreciative mother remarked. “The staff here is simply remarkable. The lengths they go to care for all our son’s needs—be they physical, academic or emotional—are simply unable to be put into words.”

With a parent and camper body that spans the gamut of Yiddishkeit, the spirit of unity and dedication serves as the apparatus for the remarkable work of Camp HASC. No matter one’s background, position or role, at Camp HASC there is an undeniable sense of devotion and unity, a place where unconditional love is the only prerequisite.

The #Break4HASC challenge, of course, is a lead-up to July 29, when, in conjunction with Camp Experience Day, Camp HASC will be running a 36-hour CauseMatch fundraiser. Each dollar donated will be quadrupled by a group of generous donors, with a goal of $1 million to be raised.

For Camp HASC to give so many people a break and provide the summer of a lifetime comes at a tremendous cost. Camp HASC is asking everyone to take a break out of their day and help support their avodas hakodesh.

By taking a break, you will actually be giving so many people a break: You’ll be giving children and adults with disabilities the ability to be a regular camper, you’ll be giving their parents and families a much-needed break where they can go about their lives normally, and you’ll be giving Camp HASC a much-needed break by helping shoulder the financial burden to make it all possible.

To donate or learn more, please visit www.break4hasc.org or call 845.292.6821.