Syosset festival raises funds for kids' care
Over 500 attendees gathered on Oct. 24 to support pediatric mental health services at Cohen Children's Medical Center.
By Riya Zhao ·
More than 500 children, parents, and community members attended the Children's Medical Fund of New York's first fall festival on Oct. 24. The event, titled A Ghoul's Day Out, took place on the BDG grounds in Syosset. All proceeds from the gathering went toward pediatric mental health and therapeutic care at Cohen Children's Medical Center.
Families participated in pony rides, a petting zoo, and carnival games. The program also included seasonal crafts, an artisan market, and food trucks. A central feature was the Ghost Giving Wall, where donors placed personalized ghost stickers on a display to recognize their gifts and monthly pledges to young patients.
Sarah Blumenfeld, event co-chair, stated that the goal was to unite local families while addressing the youth mental health crisis. She noted that every dollar raised stays in the neighborhood. This ensures children at Cohen receive clinical care alongside the emotional and psychological resources needed for healing.
The organization uses these funds for services typically not covered by insurance. These include child life specialists, art and music therapy, and sensory rooms. These resources assist children facing anxiety, depression, and behavioral health emergencies.
Lauren Singer, the other event co-chair, said the turnout showed the community's strength. She credited corporate partners, local artisans, and the dozens of volunteers who helped the day run smoothly. Singer emphasized that the event demonstrated what happens when a community invests directly in its children's well-being.
Jeremy Taubes, CMFNY co-president, thanked Blumenfeld, Singer, and the committee members for bringing the event to life. Adam H. Koblenz, also a co-president, added that the collaboration showed the possibilities of community investment in child well-being.
CMFNY acknowledged local partners including Eddie's Pizza, Brooklyn Sausage & Peppers, Kool Kat Ice Cream, and The Social Wagon. The festival is part of the group's year-round fundraising. Its second annual Women's Luncheon and 52nd annual Golf and Tennis Charity Classic are scheduled for 2027 at Glen Oaks Club in Old Westbury.
