Kids who have experienced burn injuries can face self-esteem challenges as the world around them judges their physical appearance. That’s why Hale Products, a unit of IDEX Fire & Safety, is proudly partnering with Embers of Hope to sponsor their 2025 Burn Survivor Camp, providing young burn survivors with a life-changing experience filled with healing, support, and fun.
In March, Hale presented an IDEX Foundation donation of $28,000 to the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund to support the 2025 Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp. Throughout camp, Hale also contributed their time by setting up activities, serving meals and filling back-to-school backpacks. This camp offers young burn survivors from across Florida a safe space for healing, support, and unforgettable experiences.
For many of the young survivors, the camp is not just a vacation. It is an opportunity to heal and bond with others who share similar experiences.
“By supporting Embers of Hope camp, Hale Products allows the children and young adults an opportunity to feel a sense of belonging, that they are not alone in this tough road they are facing,” Hale customer service lead Susan Bartlett said. “At the same time offering family members time of respite, while the kids learn coping skills and develop friendships with other youth facing the same challenges.”
The Power of the Burn Survivors Camp
The Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp is a free 4-day, 3-night camp held at Lake Swan Camp in Melrose, Florida, for children ages 6 through 17 who have sustained a burn injury. The camp’s mission is clear: “empower children to embrace their burns while fostering a sense of community among peers.”
The camp provides an environment where children not only engage in traditional summer camp activities like swimming, canoeing, and arts and crafts, but also attend workshops on self-esteem, body image, and coping strategies, led by experienced counselors and professionals from the burn community. By offering these unique experiences, the camp helps children develop a healthy self-image and equips them with the emotional tools needed for their journey as survivors.
“Embers of Hope demonstrates that our efforts save lives daily,” said Hale customer service manager Stephen Santa Fe, who worked closely with Ember of Hope founder Rebekah Johnson and the IDEX Foundation to secure funding for the camp. “Providing this camp for children and witnessing the positive impact it has on their lives fills me with pride and joy. The support from IDEX and Hale further strengthens my belief in the value of our work and the product we offer.”
A Vital Partnership
Hale’s commitment to safety and innovation in the fire industry aligns seamlessly with their partnership with the Marion County Firefighters and Embers of Hope.
“The Hale team, renowned for its expertise in world-class fire and safety equipment, is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive solutions that address mission-critical problems, save lives, and enhance global safety,” Hale site leader Palmer Pendleton said. “Our partnership with Marion County Fire and Embers of Hope underscores Hale’s steadfast dedication to our values of Trust, Team, and Excellence not only in the industry we serve but also in our community.”
A Symbol of Hope
As the 2025 camp prepares for its transformative experiences, the partnership between Hale and Embers of Hope stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished when businesses and nonprofits come together for the greater good. This donation is not just a financial contribution—it is an investment in the future of burn survivors, their families, and the broader community. It is a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering support.
“We are grateful to the Marion County Fire Department and Embers of Hope for allowing Hale Products to be part of their story,” Pendleton said.