Haven Hospice held Camp Safe Haven, a program for children and teens who have experienced loss.
Youth suffering a loss can often benefit from the development of coping skills to handle their emotions. As such, campers participated in group icebreakers, crafts to facilitate reflection, group discussion, a nature walk, therapeutic drumming circle and a memorial ceremony in honor of their loved one.
This year, parents or caregivers were encouraged to attend with their children and participate in the activities, which were led by Haven’s bereavement staff and volunteers.
“The benefit of Camp Safe Haven was evident in the reactions of the attendees– children expressing complex feelings via drumming or storytelling; parents connecting over similar losses, the complexities of grieving while parenting and the momentary unburdening as they saw their children getting extra support,” said Haven Bereavement Coordinator Nooriel Nolan. “For a short while, these grievers are understood in ways that they may not be in day-to-day life. That is truly invaluable.”
Camp Safe Haven, like all of Haven’s bereavement services, is provided at no cost to attendees. Haven will be holding another Camp Safe Haven event in Fall 2022. If you know of a child who might benefit from bereavement support in a fun, safe environment, please contact CommunityResources@BeYourHaven.org.