Health and Food Services

We aim to serve thoughtfully prepared meals with fresh ingredients, creativity, and a focus on quality. Whether it’s a casual outdoor cookout or a formal dinner, we aim to ensure that every meal reflects our commitment to culinary excellence.

We understand that dietary needs and preferences are personal and diverse. From allergies to lifestyle choices, our team is dedicated to accommodating special dietary requirements—gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and more—while maintaining the integrity and enjoyment of every meal. We create menus that allow all campers and staff to feel included, cared for, and satisfied.

At camp, we strive to exceed expectations by creating a warm and welcoming dining experience that makes everyone feel valued and at home. We also prioritize the safety of campers with dietary needs and allergies by following strict food safety protocols. However, factors beyond our control, such as external food sources or environmental exposure, may introduce allergens. While we do our best to manage these risks and are prepared to respond to allergic reactions, we encourage parents to communicate any specific concerns so we can work together to ensure camper safety and comfort. Reminder: please complete the allergy and anaphylaxis treatment plan.

Through chef demonstrations and interactive food experiences, we aim to educate campers about the importance of food, nutrition, and how dietary choices affect their health and well-being. By fostering a deeper understanding of food, we encourage healthier habits and greater appreciation for the meals we serve.

Food safety is paramount in everything we do. We maintain high standards of cleanliness, proper food handling, and clear labeling to ensure that all campers and staff can enjoy their meals with peace of mind. We proactively communicate ingredients and processes to ensure the safety of those with food allergies or sensitivities.

Meals are more than just about eating; they unite people. We believe the dining experience is central to camp culture and community building. By serving meals in an inviting, communal atmosphere, we help create moments of joy, connection, and shared experience for everyone at camp.

Each campsite clinic is stocked with equipment, supplies, and over-the-counter medications to treat common illnesses, aches, and injuries. Select prescription medications are also available to begin treatment quickly.

With AEDs, first aid kits, and rescue equipment strategically placed across camp, we’re ready for any scenario. Due to our remote location, the method of patient transport will be determined by Frio Canyon EMS and on-site healthcare professionals. Our robust Emergency Action Plan ensures swift transport to:

• Hospitals in Kerrville (60-minute transport)
• Frio Canyon EMS response (Typically arrives within 30-45 minutes after being contacted)
• Helicopter evacuation from one of our eight designated landing zones (PELA sites)

• Camp healthcare staff will evaluate and treat your child following approved care protocols.
• If concerns go beyond routine care, a camp practitioner will step in.
• Should your child require more advanced care, we’ll contact you according to our Parent Call Policy.
• Plan Ahead: Due to limited isolation space, please have a plan to pick up your child within 8 hours in case of illness or injury, etc.

To ensure your camper receives the best care:

1. Complete the Health History Form: During registration, share all relevant details about your camper’s physical and mental health. Be thorough—everything helps!

2. Pre-Camp Review: The Director of Health Services will review health histories in advance. If we have any questions, we’ll reach out to discuss them with you.

3. Direct Contact: For specific health concerns, contact Cristal Mrosko at cmrosko@hebfdn.org before check-in. Early planning helps set your camper up for a successful experience!

• Complete the Medication Form: Prior to your camper’s session, you will receive an email prompting you to complete the online Medication History through Circuitree (our registration portal).
• Ensure all medications are accurately listed and updated before check-in to avoid delays.

• All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications must be turned in to healthcare staff during check-in.
• Medications must:
  • Be in their original bottles with the camper’s name, dose, and frequency clearly listed.
  • Be unexpired.
• Exceptions: Rescue medications (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens) or diabetic supplies may remain with the camper with a signed release form:
  • Echo Valley: Campers keep their own rescue medications.
  • Singing Hills: Counselors/healthcare staff manage rescue medications for younger campers.
• No Pill Organizers: Pill boxes/organizers cannot be accepted. For special circumstances, contact the Director of Health Services.

• Echo Valley:
  • Non-controlled medications will be placed in camper suitcases.
  • Controlled or rescue medications must be picked up at the clinic.
• Singing Hills:
  • All medications must be picked up at the healthcare staff table outside the clinic.
• ⚠️ Reminder: Medications not picked up will be safely disposed of, as we cannot legally ship them.

• Scheduled Medications:
  • Administered at mealtimes at the Ranch House and after Round-Up at the Pavilion.
  • Bedtime medications are given at the clinic or Ranch House after the late-night event.
• Missed Doses:
  • Healthcare staff will locate campers to administer missed medications.
  • If a camper consistently refuses medication for 24+ hours, parents will be consulted to create a care plan.

• Vitamins, Supplements, or Melatonin: The following medications will not be administered without a provider’s script or order indicating the medication, strength, and dosing. Please upload to Circuitree or email to cmrosko@hebfdn.org.
• No CBD or Essential Oils: These will not be administered and should not be packed in your camper’s luggage.

Essential Medications Only: Leave non-essential, non-prescription medications at home. Camp clinics are well stocked with over-the-counter (OTC) medications to address common needs.

• Check-In Day: Parents should give any dinner medications before arrival.
• Closing Day: Parents should give breakfast medications after pick-up.

• Texas Department of Health laws and nursing regulations require medications to be secured and administered safely.
• These protocols ensure no camper can accidentally access another’s medication.

If you have questions or specific concerns about your child’s medications, contact:

Cristal Mrosko, Director of Health Services at cmrosko@hebfdn.org.

If a camper or staff member exhibits symptoms of a communicable disease (e.g., Strep Throat, Influenza, COVID-19, etc.):

• On-Site Testing: Our healthcare staff will promptly evaluate the individual and perform tests for suspected illnesses when appropriate.
• Parental Notification: If a test confirms a communicable disease, parents will be contacted immediately to discuss next steps.
• Pick-Up Plan: Parents will need to pick up their camper within 8 hours of notification to ensure the health and well-being of others at camp.

To minimize the risk of communicable diseases:

• Daily Monitoring: Our healthcare staff are vigilant in identifying early symptoms of illness.
• Hygiene Protocols: Campers are encouraged to wash their hands regularly, especially before meals and after group activities.
• Cleaning Procedures: High-traffic areas, bathrooms, and dining spaces are routinely cleaned and disinfected.
• Isolation Space: If a camper feels unwell, they may be temporarily isolated in the clinic until evaluated by our healthcare team.

• Monitor Your Child’s Health: Before camp, please ensure your camper is free of fever, flu-like symptoms, or other signs of illness for at least 24 hours without medication.
• Have a Pick-Up Plan Ready: In the rare case your camper tests positive for a communicable illness, be prepared to arrive within 8 hours.
• Keep Us Informed: Share any recent exposures, illnesses, or health concerns on the Health History Form or by contacting Cristal Mrosko, Director of Health Services, at cmrosko@hebfdn.org.

Camp is a close-knit environment where illnesses can spread quickly. By responding swiftly and requiring timely pick-up:

• We reduce the risk of illness spreading to other campers and staff.
• Your camper receives the rest and care they need in a home setting.
• We can keep camp activities running smoothly for everyone.