Day Care Scholarships For Siblings

Of Children With Cancer

TRUMBULL — When cancer afflicts a young child or teenager, it also has a dramatic impact on the rest of the family. In particular, other siblings often have to take a back seat during the extended course of care.

“Cancer care drains the time, attention and resources of the family and it may also require extended hours away from the other children,” said Ronald J. Bianchi, president of the St Vincent’s Foundation.

Mr Bianchi said that in order to respond to this unmet need, Swim Across the Sound has launched a new Day Care Scholarship Program for siblings of children with cancer.

“The Swim constantly looks for new ways to reach out to families and provide patient support. We know that many parents worry about their other children while they focus on the child with cancer. The day care scholarship will give them the support and reassurance that other children are being looked after and well cared for,” Mr Bianchi said.

Scholarships are now available to the unique Kids Connection program at the Feroleto Center of St Vincent’s Special Needs Services. Located in Trumbull just off Route 8, Kids Connection serves toddlers and pre-schoolers with a year-round schedule of play, learning and developmental opportunities.

“We’re fortunate to find the day care resources we need within our own system. St Vincent’s Special Needs has an outstanding history of innovating early childhood programs to meet the development needs of all children,” he said.

For information on the Day Care Scholarship Program and other Swim Across the Sound prevention and patient care services, call the St Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation, 203/576-5451.