A Place to Stay. A Place to Heal.
Join the Campaign to Rebuild Caregiver Housing at Blythedale Children's Hospital.
The Challenge:
Parenting a medically complex child is overwhelming. Families are suddenly immersed in hospitals, treatments, and uncertainty — often for months at a time. Research shows children recover faster and experience better outcomes when their families are close by. When caregivers are supported — physically and emotionally — they are better able to participate in care and advocate for their child. At Blythedale Children’s Hospital, the average length of stay is 60–70 days. Yet many families cannot afford nearby lodging or daily meals during this extended time.
The Solution: A Home Away From Home
Located on Blythedale’s campus, the existing house has welcomed families since the mid-1990s. Closed in 2020 due to COVID-19, it has remained unused. Now, Blythedale is committed to restoring and transforming this space into a nurturing haven for caregivers. The renovated two-story residence will feature five to six secure overnight bedrooms and thoughtfully designed shared spaces for rest, work, meals, and community.
The Caregiver Cottage will ease the emotional and financial burden on families, strengthening their ability to care for their child and supporting faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Progress and the Work Ahead
The house and grounds require extensive renovation. Thanks to generous llead gifts from the Angels of Light Foundation and an individual donor, work has begun.
These early investments made it possible to start. Now we must complete the transformation.
Our goal is to open the House as soon as it is safely habitable, continuing renovations in phases to bring the full vision to life.
In addition to capital improvements, Blythedale will provide dedicated on-site staff to manage daily operations and support families during their stay. Expanded programming will include cooking support and caregiver support groups — building not just housing, but community.
Why Philanthropy Is Essential
Insurance and Medicaid do not cover programs like the Parent House. Philanthropy is the only way this vital resource can exist. The Parent House will be a permanent sanctuary — offering comfort, stability, and connection to families navigating long-term pediatric rehabilitation and medical complexity.
FUNDRAISING GOAL: $4,000,000
Ways to Support
$1,000,000 – Name the Parent House
$125,000–$250,000 – Major renovations (roof, siding, chimney)
$100,000 – Support staff and programming
$50,000 – Landscaping and exterior restoration
$25,000–$50,000 – Name a bedroom or living room
$10,000–$25,000 – Name a workspace
$1,000–$5,000 – Furnish a bedroom or living area
Partner With Us
Your support will ensure that no family has to choose between being present for their child and affording a place to stay. We welcome the opportunity to speak with you about how you can help bring the Caregiver Cottage to life. Please contact Blythedale’s Development Office at (914) 831-2547 or email to Connie Cornell, Vice President of Strategic Communications.
