The loss of a loved one touches each member of the family, including children. To help young people through their bereavement, Optimal Hospice Foundation created Kids Camp. This summer camp program is specially designed for young people ages 6 - 16 that have experienced the loss of an immediate family member in the recent past. At Kids Camp, young people enjoy traditional camping activities, such as swimming and hiking, in an atmosphere where both staff and fellow campers understand their special needs. The children find healing and peace through games, activities and common fellowship with each other.Kids Camp is currently held in the Bakersfield and Fresno areas and is open to all children in the community. The child's loved one did not have to be on hospice to attend camp.This innovative experience is available at no cost to families, thanks to generous support from the community. Camp participants may be referred by school counselors, healthcare providers, family members and other individuals.

The Foundation is committed to providing education regarding the importance and value of hospice care to patients and families. Losing a loved one is never easy, unfortunately most people have no idea how hospice can help or when hospice would be appropriate. Community Outreach programs whether directly provided or funded by the Foundation provide the community the information they need to make an educated decision that is best for their situation.

The Foundation works closely with Optimal Hospice Care to ensure families have access to hospice care regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status. When a patient is uninsured or their benefits have run out the Foundation pays Optimal Hospice Care a per day rate to help cover the cost of the patients care while on hospice. This ensures families are never turned away based on their insurance status. This program is provided for all of our locations - Bakersfield, Lake Isabella, Visalia, Fresno, Modesto, Stockton and Santa Clara.