Bereavement Support

Bereavement Support

Grieving is a process that requires much more time than our culture typically acknowledges or allows. Support during time of bereavement can help bring healing, renewal and hope for the future. Staff at Hospice House maintain contact with bereaved families following the death of a loved one to offer comfort, support, referrals and services when needed.

For adults mourning the death of a loved one; each workshop is convened over a 12-week period, during a series of 6 sessions that meet every other week. A workshop is offered three times each year: winter, spring and fall, at Hospice House. Participants share regrets and happy memories and their strategies for coping and living as they move through the grief process. Co-facilitated by Nurse Bell-Jo Rodgers, and Chaplain Allison DeLaney, each group is limited in size and pre-registration is required. For information call 757-253-1220.

An ongoing support group for those grieving the death of a child of any age, the Williamsburg Chapter meets from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on the second Monday evening of each month at Hospice House and one may join the group at any time. For information, call 757-253-1220.

A private meeting with the Chaplain and information about professional counseling or other community-based support is available. To meet with Chaplain Allison DeLaney, call 757-253-1220.

A support group for women who have lost a spouse. Meets on the 4th Monday of each month at 4 pm. Contact Chaplain Allison DeLaney at 757 253-1220 if you are interested in joining this group.

For many individuals and families, a time of shared remembrance with reflection, music and prayer brings comfort during special times of the year.

An interfaith candlelight memorial service is offered each year during the week following Thanksgiving. The location of this evensong service varies. The time and place are announced in local media and in the Hospice newsletter and web site and is open to the community.

A "Celebration of Life" service is held early in May on the patio at Hospice House. Led by the Hospice Chaplain, this interfaith service is open to the community.

Holiday Help Workshop is offered early in November, to provide information and an opportunity to plan for coping with the holidays during bereavement.

Library books and literature about grief and bereavement for persons of all ages are available through the Hospice House library, open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekdays.

Eligibility
Hospice House and Support Care offers bereavement support to families who have been in hospice care and also to members of the community at large.

Cost
There are no charges for services of Hospice House and Support Care of Williamsburg.