Two long-standing partners dedicated to providing relief and renewal for those affected by cancer are joining forces to create a transformative space – the nation’s first onsite respite facility, For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Center at Woodloch. Projected to open in 2026, this innovative center will serve more than 4,000 people annually and redefine cancer care in Pennsylvania.

For nearly two decades, Montgomery County-based For Pete’s Sake Cancer RespiteFoundation has helped families take a break from cancer through meaningful, restorative experiences. Similarly, Woodloch Resort, renowned for its world-class hospitality in the Pocono Mountains, has offered family-focused getaways for over 65 years. Since 2011, the organizations have collaborated to support patients, loved ones and caregivers navigating the cancer journey.

This joint venture consolidates all For Pete’s Sake’s services into one signature location in Hawley. A $3.5 million grant through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Capital Assistance Program brings the project closer to its $25 million fundraising goal, complementing significant contributions already secured.

“So many of us have been touched by this terrible disease,” said Sen. Lisa Baker, a project advocate. “This infusion of state dollars is a significant investment that will help leverage the corporate, foundation, and private donations required to establish this premier complex right here in northeastern Pennsylvania.”

Woodloch owner Bob Kiesendahl, a cancer survivor, understands the value of reconnecting with family and self during difficult times. “Since Woodloch’s inception, our purpose and ‘why’ has been to make the world a better place,” Kiesendahl said. “Our partnership with For Pete’s Sake was forged after our first conversation, and our shared mission has strengthened our bond over the last 13 years, bringing us to this milestone moment.”

Set on 32 acres, the 34,000-square-foot campus will feature amenities designed with input from oncology professionals, addressing the emotional, financial, spiritual and physical challenges of cancer in a safe, restorative environment. Features include a dining room serving 60,000 meals annually, an art room, a chapel, yoga space, a swimming pool for water therapy and nature trails. Groundbreaking is scheduled for spring 2025, with completion in 2026. For Pete’s Sake serves adults with all cancer types, partnering with hospitals and cancer centers such as Penn Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network, St. Luke’s, Jefferson Health, Allegheny Health Network, Alliance Cancer Care, Geisinger, Fox Chase and UPMC. Patients must be nominated by their oncology team to participate.

Jennifer Coleman, diagnosed with cancer in 2023, experienced the program firsthand with her family.

“At that point, we didn’t know if I would respond to the treatments,” Jennifer said. “When faced with such uncertainty, it was comforting to have a beautiful place to be together, away from all the chaos of cancer, and sit with my husband simply watching our kids playing in the sun, enjoying the lake and laughing again.”

A year later, Jennifer and her daughter Corrine are giving back as facilitators for new families, appreciating the profound impact of the program from both perspectives.

“Our outcomes data proves that respite makes a significant therapeutic impact on patients, caregivers, and their families, strengthening communication, relationships, resilience, and quality of life,” said Marci Schankweiler, founder and CEO of For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation. “We are profoundly grateful to everyone making this dream a reality, including Gov. Shapiro, Sens. Baker and Brown, and Reps. Fritz and Olsommer.”

For more information on how to get involved, please visit www.RespiteTransformed.org.