Bereavement Services
Grief Resources for Families
Our Bereavement and Spiritual Care Team Members and Counselors are here to help our community and we commit to walking with you as you cope, talk with and educate your children and family members, and navigate through all the thoughts and feelings related to these types of events. Below are just some of the available resources to assist, and if you need someone to talk to, please call 717-504-3465.
Grief Resources
Remembrance Services
Franklin Hospice and Hospice of Washington County invite you and your family to participate in our Community Service of Remembrance.
We will be honoring patients who died from November 2022-May 2023.
During our service, we will read the name(s) of your loved one(s), light candles, share readings and poems, and have moments of reflection.
Summer 2023 Remembrance Service
Date: TBA
If you have any questions, please contact HWC at 301-791-6360.
Click HERE to view the 2021 Winter Remembrance Service
Children's Grief Awareness Day
1 in 5 children will experience the death of someone close to them by the age of 18. For Children’s Grief Awareness Day on Thursday, November 18th, Hospice of Washington County invites you to explore the numerous events and activities taking place all day virtually at https://www.childrensgriefawarenessday.org/.
Grief During the Holidays
Although many people consider the holidays, “the most wonderful time of the year,” it can actually be one of the toughest times of the year for those who are struggling with grief and loss. People often begin to experience immense sorrow, feelings of anger, depression, loneliness and sadness right around Thanksgiving and continuing into the new year. While others may be enjoying the sights and sounds of the holidays; the music, lights, holiday parties and festive decorations that are meant to bring us joy, all of those things may also serve as painful reminders of our loss. Our loved one is not with us physically, so it can be difficult to feel connected to those around us, and to the purpose of the holiday season.
If you’re wondering how to get through the holidays this year without your loved one, here are some things to think about that might be helpful:
- Remember that grief is a part of the healing process. Some people may be resistant to actually sitting with the feelings they’re feeling, and experiencing the full range of emotions that accompany grief and loss. But, giving yourself permission to feel the loss, is part of the healing. Oftentimes people will try to escape, avoid or medicate feelings by over-indulging in food, drinking too much alcohol, or by just being too busy, instead of giving themselves the freedom to acknowledge and sit with their experience. Attempting to pretend the holidays don’t exist or numbing the pain of loss simply prolongs the anguish. Allowing yourself to experience your feelings is a healthy step toward healing from loss.
- Be patient with yourself. Realize that it’s not going to be easy, and do only those things that are special, meaningful or important to you. It’s okay to set healthy boundaries and not feel like you have to agree to every request; be willing to say no if that’s what you need. Eliminate the unnecessary, and set appropriate limits on what you do and what you spend. Do not over commit yourself.
- Make a plan. Realize that this is going to be a new holiday - very different than holidays of the past. Think about changing some traditions or starting new ones.
- Build in times to relax over the holidays; take time to just breathe, remember and reflect.
- Take the initiative and make your own plans if you do not want to be alone over the holidays. Invite a neighbor to join you, throw your own party, or sit quietly with someone you feel safe and vulnerable with during those difficult days. Do something you truly enjoy-don’t do things just out of obligation or to please someone else.
- Some of the worst holiday stress arrives post-season. Plan something pleasant in January and February to help diminish the letdown.
- If stress, anxiety, depression, or loneliness become overwhelming, it may be helpful to consult a mental health professional. It’s okay to ask for help.
- Think ahead about a response you might give to someone who says, “Merry Christmas” or “Happy New Year.”
- Be patient with those who are unaware of the death. Think of a way to let them know in advance.
- Find a way to honor your memories. Consider creating a special way to remember and memorialize the person you’ve lost. Whether you decide to place a special ornament on your tree, light a candle every night, or fix your loved one’s favorite food, honoring your loved one is a tangible reminder that although the person we love is gone, the love never dies.
Informational Guide
On-going Grief Groups
Hearts of Hope
Hearts of Hope is an ongoing open grief support group beginning May 4th, 2023, for any adult who is grieving the death of a loved one. This group meets routinely on the first Thursday of the month from 2 PM until 3 PM. This group is available in hybrid format. You are welcome to join on Zoom or you can join us in person at Franklin Hospice.
This group is available in hybrid format. You are welcome to join on Zoom or you can join us in person at Franklin Hospice - 209 Grant St. Chambersburg, PA. 17201.
For more information, please call our office at (717) 504-3465 or email bereavement@hospiceofwc.org.
Social Brunch
Offered once a month, meeting at a local restaurant. A great chance to socialize in a safe environment, with people who understand and respect where you are in your grief journey.
Closed-Ended Grief Groups
(Offered for 6 week sessions throughout the year)
Overdose Loss Support Group, offered in the fall
Losing a loved one can be one of the most painful experiences we will ever endure. Receive and give support to others who are walking this journey as well. Join us for a time of support, sharing, and education.
Survivors of Suicide Group, offered in the spring
This group will focus on the many issues that arise when a loved one dies of suicide and the emotional, physical, and spiritual responses to it. Explore ways to manage the intensity of the pain and discuss healthy coping strategies.
Teen Grief Group, offered in the summer
Teens have many challenges in life. Add the grief of losing a loved one to these challenges, and it gets even more complex. This group is a safe place for teens to share stories and express themselves.
Educational Workshops, offered throughout the year
- Grief 101
- Children and Grief
- Coping with the Holidays
DoveTales
DoveTales is designed for children (ages 6 – 13) who are coping with the death of a loved one. DoveTales is an educational and nurturing experience for children to share their “Tales” and meet others who “get it.”
Due to COVID-19 and considerations for the safety of our children and community, DoveTales 2020 will be an interactive virtual experience instead of a face-to-face traditional camp. The bereavement team is excited to announce our partnership with BEACON House Inc. to create a weekly program for children and families for the Fall 2020. All of the children who register for the program will receive a special care package including a DoveTales t-shirt, canvas bag, workbook, comfort blanket, and all of the art and craft materials needed to complete weekly activities.
Families will be invited to complete creative activities focused on grief education, as well as participate in live video sessions via Zoom to meet bereavement counselors, mentors, and other families for support each week. Children and families will have the opportunity to build meaningful connections, as well as learn effective and practical skills for coping with their grief.
Looking for a fun and unique VOLUNTEER opportunity? Consider applying to be a DoveTales Volunteer. Volunteers will have the opportunity to be a virtual “Big Buddy” and a mentor to children and families via the online program. Training and education will be provided to all volunteers.
DoveTales is offered at NO cost to families. Special thank you for grant funding from the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, Inc, as well as private donors.
Registration is open to children and families who reside in Washington County, Maryland as well as Franklin County, Pennsylvania.