It was the pause to keep the magic going. The #Break4HASC campaign swept through the broader Jewish community, as thousands of individuals across the globe all took time out of their day to “take a break” and support Camp HASC.
The overarching idea behind the campaign was inspired by the much-needed break that Camp HASC provides for the campers and their families, and how it was time to give Camp HASC a financial “break” by helping cover the camp’s tremendous financial burden.
On July 29 and 30, coinciding with Camp HASC’s popular “Experience Day,” the camp ran a 36-hour, CauseMatch fundraiser. Each dollar donated was quadrupled by a group of generous donors, with the goal of $1 million raised.
In the weeks leading up to the fundraiser, dozens of businesses “took a break” from their daily operations in solidarity with Camp HASC. These “breaks” gained massive traction, and were instrumental in spreading our cause far and wide.
The campaign was a massive success, as Camp HASC was able to shatter its original fundraising goal in less than 24 hours. The raw jubilation that ensued in camp upon hitting the target goal was intense and emotional, as campers and counselors erupted in spontaneous dancing.
At its core, the #Break4HASC campaign was microcosmic of everything Camp HASC stands for: unity, dedication and boundless love. The outpouring of support from people all over the globe was truly heartwarming and went a long way.
And yet, it’s not enough.
Despite the campaign’s success, Camp HASC was unfortunately forced to turn away dozens and dozens of precious neshamot. The costs of running Camp HASC are exorbitant, and as an organization that relies solely on private donations, the harsh reality is that without the necessary funds, it simply cannot accept everyone.
This shouldn’t happen.
No child should be turned away. No child should be denied the opportunity to enjoy the summer of their dreams.
Though the #Break4HASC campaign may be over, the spirit and mission of it is not. Camp Hasc is asking you to please help them give the children and their families the ability to take a break from the challenges they face year-round, and enjoy their ray of sunshine.
In the next few days you might receive the Camp HASC summer newsletter in your mailbox. Camp HASC invested money producing this report in the hopes that you will be inspired to help its children with your generous donations. Please don’t throw it away. Camp HASC and many of its respite services do not receive government assistance and unfortunately operate at a deficit.
Please help ensure that simcha can be provided for all of these precious children and their dedicated families.Whether this mailing reaches you prior, during or after Yom Tov, please find it in your heart to sponsor a camper’s simchathon for $360, or give generously, any amount you feel comfortable donating. You can also donate right now by visiting www.break4Hasc.org. May you be zoche to the blessing Hashem promises: “If you gladden the hearts of my children, I will gladden the hearts of yours.”
Thank you and chag sameach.
By Yitz Grossman
