We would like to thank The Columbian for publishing “Children bond over shared losses at ‘grief camp’ ” (Sept. 1). Grief support services are critical to the health and well-being of all communities, because grief impacts all no matter our age, race, gender, national origin, or income level.
The article described a grief camp for kids in Pennsylvania, supported by volunteers and the community at large. We want the community to know that you don’t have to go to Pennsylvania to find the support you need. Community Home Health and Hospice has held free grief support services in our area for decades, and every year we hold a free grief camp for kids, right here in Southwest Washington. We make time for fun and adventure, as well as time for tears and tender moments. All that we do is aimed at helping families integrate loss into their lives and continue their own journeys.
We also want to recognize our friends at PeaceHealth’s Stepping Stones program, and shout out to Friends of Hospice of Southwest Washington that has raised funds to support all of the bereavement programs in Southwest Washington. Collectively, we hope that everyone who needs grief support can find the connections to help cope with their loss.
