HAWLEY, PA — For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Center is in development at Woodloch Resort and is expected to serve more than 4,000 people annually. Groundbreaking is scheduled for spring 2025, with completion in 2026.

For nearly two decades, the Montgomery County-based For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation has helped families take a break from cancer. Woodloch Resort 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.

All services by For Pete’s Sake will be combined in the Hawley location. A $3.5 million grant through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Capital Assistance Program will bring the project closer to its $25 million fundraising goal.

“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, said he understands the value of reconnecting with family and self during difficult times. “Since Woodloch’s inception, our purpose… has been to make the world a better place. 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. It will address 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. 

For Pete’s Sake serves adults with all cancer types, partnering with hospitals and cancer centers. Patients must be nominated by their oncology team to participate.

“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. “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, visit www.RespiteTransformed.org.