Children who have lost loved ones have a different set of needs from adults. Often, caring family members, many of whom struggle themselves in the midst of their own grief, try to protect children. Children must navigate a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety and insecurity, before they’re emotionally mature enough to process their loss. In response to their special needs, Delaware Hospice developed the New Hope program in 1990.

New Hope, now a nationally recognized program, offers free support, counseling and education to children ages 6 – 17, and their families, who have experienced loss. The program’s mission is to help children identify and cope with their feelings. Further, New Hope partners with community groups and social organizations to promote awareness of children’s special needs regarding communicating information, attending funerals, dealing with overwhelming feelings and more.

A special part of this program, Camp New Hope, invites children and teens coping with loss to join a 4-day summer day camp. During their time spent crafting, playing games and enjoying the outdoors, campers are given the chance to interact with other children who have experienced loss. The camp also offers group projects, counseling, individual support, education and free time to achieve the goal of processing so many emotions and questions. Finally, the camp hosts a special memorial service, which celebrates and honors the life of each child’s loved one.

For further information, please contact: 800-838-9800.