A new family bereavement support group will soon be available in South Delta.
Circles of Strength is part of Camp Kerry, a registered charity that has been recognized as a leader in B.C. for its unique approach to bereavement services and for its work with children, youth and families coping with grief and loss.
Camp Kerry was launched in 2007 on Keats Island. Since then Camp Kerry B.C. has tripled in size and has been held in numerous retreat locations.
Tama Recker, a Ladner counsellor in private practice, has been part of Camp Kerry supporting an annual family bereavement retreat since 2011.
“I am excited to share that we are now starting a family bereavement group in South Delta,” said Recker. “I know there is a need for this group as the Delta Hospice counsellor who works with kids has been off since the fall, so I'm happy that we can add additional support for our community.”
Circles of Strength will meet monthly on a Saturday afternoon in Ladner. The group supports those who are grieving the loss of someone close and is open to adults and children/youth ages six to 12.
Reckerwill be facilitating the group for adults, which could be parent(s), grandparent(s), other adult relatives/guardians and the children and youth have time with a music therapist and volunteers.
The dates will be Feb. 22, March 21, April 25 and May 23, followed by a break for the summer.
According to Dr. Heather Mohan, a registered clinical counsellor and the executive director of the Camp Kerry Society, the loss of a loved one can magnify typical developmental challenges for children and create great instability in a world that is suddenly changed.
“The development of supportive peer networks, such as those that are typically established through our Circles of Strength program, can be critical to helping children re-build a sense of hope, normalcy and community after a death in their family,” said Mohan.
For more information or to register, call 604-553-4663 or email [email protected].
