Camp Marcella - History

History

The NJ Camp for Blind Children, commonly known as Camp Marcella, started in 1947. A more or less casual type of camp facility existed, but to many parents it lacked the many advantages of a complete camping experience. So, NJCFBC Inc. recruited the right people for the right job. With the physical work and contributions of over 13 organizations and individuals, Camp Marcella opened its gates that very summer. Today Camp Marcella comprises over 200 acres (0.81 km2) of mostly woodland surroundings and a clear fish laden lake, with all of its facilities designed for the care of children with blindness, visual impairments and special needs.

Since 1947 Camp Marcella has enjoyed the support and partnership of the New Jersey Lions Clubs who have donated the funds and the muscle power to maintain the beautiful facility. In the fall of 2008 Camp Marcella broke with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired after the 50-years contact ended. The camp then contracted with Easter Seals of New Jersey as a source of funding. In 2009 Easter Seals extended the Camp season and in addition to sessions for children and teens with blindness, visual impairments and multiple challenges, Easter Seals will bring other special needs children and adults allowing Camp Marcella to serve an even greater population.

From its beginnings through 2008 Camp Marcella was completely free to blind and visually impaired children and teens ages 5 through 16 and special needs campers ages 5 to 21 who were legally blind residents of the state of New Jersey. This is because the summer program was funded by the State. In 2009 New Jersey officials elected to discontinue support for the summer program and the camp now seeks private donations to help families defray the cost of a one or two week stay at camp.