Nancamp is an integral part of the summer day camp programs offered by the Lynch/van Otterloo Y at Children’s Island just outside Marblehead Harbor and at the Y’s Leggs Hill facility in Marblehead. We also offer programs at the Jewish Community Center’s Camp Simchah on the Hill in Marblehead.
Nancamp offers children dealing with cancer the opportunity to break free for two weeks from the awful pressure in their young lives by participating in a unique summer day camp experience on the ocean on Children’s Island, two fun-filled weeks at the Lynch/van Otterloo Y at Leggs Hill or at Camp Simchah on the Hill at the Jewish Community Center in Marblehead. At no cost to the family.
Nancamp is for:
- Children who have or had cancer and can participate in the summer day camp activities
- Children who have recently had a parent or sibling pass away from cancer, or
- Children who have a parent or sibling suffering from cancer
Children are accepted after consultation with parents or guardians, and with the family or attending physician. Participating children are fully integrated into the day camp groups and activities. Their experience with cancer is kept confidential except for the camp director and the child's camp counselor.
Camp fees and reasonable associated expenses, such as transportation, are paid by the Nancy Bostley Memorial Fund. Spaces are limited. Applicants are accepted on a first-come-first-served basis, pending approval by the Nancamp trustees and the camp directors. Priority is given to first-time applicants.
Nancamp also sponsors children dealing with cancer for additional school vacation week programs at the YMCA and Jewish Community Center in Marblehead.
Nancamp was established in 1991 in memory of Nancy Bostley, who lost her battle with cancer in August of that year. Her strength and faith throughout her illness was inspiring. Her love of children and compassion for others led her family to establish Nancamp in her memory.
