Why is Sibling Strong Necessary?

Across our country, thousands of brothers and sisters are separated because they have been removed from their biological homes and we have too few foster, relative or adoptive homes to accommodate sibling groups. The sibling connection is so strong and so important to each child’s well-being and recovery from trauma that camp exists to help fill the void when siblings cannot live together.

Who is eligible to attend Sibling Strong Programs?

Any sibling group with brothers and sisters between the ages of 8 and 18 are eligible to apply as long as at least one of the campers lives in Washington state. We have had campers from several other states attend with their Washington siblings. Travel expenses are not provided by Sibling Strong, it is at the caregivers’ expense.

Can my child attend camp if he/she is on medications, has a special diet, physical limitations or behavior issues?

Yes! Sibling Strong operates with a staff of nurses, who distributes all medications. Dietary needs are noted on camper applications and will be handled by the camp kitchen. Children with disabilities are considered on a case-by-case basis. Staff members cannot administer medications for day time events.

How does the application process work?

Applications will be available February 1-April 15th on our summer camp page, which can be found here and need to be completed by the child’s case worker. Relative caregivers and adoptive families complete their child’s application. Each child applying for camp will need a separate application. Once submitted, the application will be reviewed by a committee. Highest priority is given to applicants who have the least amount of quality contact with their brothers or sisters during the year. Applicants typically hear back directly from the assistant director about their camper status during the first week of May.

Do we have to pay for our child to attend a Sibling Strong program?

No! Sibling Strong fundraises year-round to provide events and activities at no cost to the families. Instead, we seek grants from businesses, foundations and corporations along with private donations for our year round activities. Our summer camp is sponsored by the Washington States Department of Children, Youth and Families.

The only financial obligation for social workers or caregivers is to provide transportation for youth to and from activities.

How Can We Donate or volunteer?

There are many ways to donate or volunteer with Sibling Strong! To learn more about it, check out our volunteer page.

Does Sibling Strong provide transportation?

Occasionally, bus transportation is provide for day time events and is always provided for eastern Washington youth attending camp.