The Syracuse-based non-profit David's Refuge has returned to Rochester for the second year, hosting something special for families dealing with disabilities and developmental delays.

The summer is a time to be outside. But for families like Kimberly and her wife Kara Buholtz’s, who have four adopted children, two with developmental delays, its not so simple.

“Oxygen tank, medications, extra feeds, extra supplies of his, feeding tube comes out," Kimberly Buholtz said.  "All those necessary things so we don’t have to go to an emergency room or urgent care unnecessarily, because we didn’t plan ahead.”

5-year-old Jackson has fetal alcohol syndrome. Only months apart in age, his adopted brother Carter was born premature, and needs oxygen and feeding tubes. Even a picnic can be daunting.

“Sometimes I feel like we’re doing a great job at parenting, and some days I feel like we have our struggles just as much as everyone else.” Buholtz said.

That’s where David’s Refuge comes in, and their Summer Celebration picnic.

“Our mission is to care for the caregiver.” Director Kate Houck said. “Our picnic offers very much free zone, a green light, for children of all abilities. It’s all inclusive so families can feel welcome, and be in an environment of people who love and care for them.”

And with their support, Buholtz says her family of six feels quite a bit bigger.

“We say everybody gets it. So if somebody’s having a tough time, it’s okay. There’s not funny looks, and there’s not people sighing or feeling frustrated. Everybody’s welcomed and embraced, and allowed to be who they are.”