When children and teens experience the passing of a loved one, they can become overwhelmed by their emotions and have many questions. Children often have a difficult time expressing their feelings of mourning and grief. Spending time with other children who also have experienced a loss can provide a safe place for talking about those feelings. They soon realize that there are others who feel the way they do. Participating in a children’s grief support group has been proven to be helpful even years following a loss. This process helps children learn to cope in a healthy way that restores their sense of control and hope.
Heartworks is a family-based support program for grieving children, teens and their parent(s)/caregiver(s). We welcome preschool aged children all the way up to high school aged teenagers.
Most families who have experienced the loss of a loved one can benefit from a Heartworks grief support group. In our hurried society, we often don’t allow time to properly cope with the feelings we have when a loved one dies. A loved ones absence brings changes that are hard to explain and understand; also, children need to be given time to remember their loved one.
Our groups give a time and a place to regularly work through these tasks with the support of others who understand, as they are going through similar losses. Children and teens often need the opportunity to talk about their feelings. This can be through group discussion, art, music and drama. It is through this process that a child begins to heal and make sense of what has happened to them. Coming to our program as a family gives additional benefits of support among all members.
Group Meetings
Groups meet twice a month from September to May on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at UPMC Williamsport Divine Providence Campus, 3rd floor, 1100 Grampian Boulevard, Williamsport.
There is no cost to attend this program, however pre-registration is required. To register, call 570-326-8952.
Trained Volunteers
Heartworks' volunteers are specially trained and dedicated individuals united by their love for children. Our comprehensive training program provides volunteers with the tools they need to give loving and compassionate support to grieving children, teens and their families.
Community Education
Heartworks is an informational resource for parents, schools, churches and community groups. Our staff is available for presentations or workshops that are tailored to the needs of the organization.
For more information, contact Ashley Stensland at
stenslandam@upmc.edu.
Additional Resources
Heartworks Program
National Alliance for Grieving Children
Highmark Caring Place
UPMC is here to help you and your family through difficult times with grief support groups in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA, and the surrounding areas.
