All of us at Families as Allies wish you the merriest of Christmases and the happiest of holidays. We treasure each family, friend and colleague who is a part of us and are thinking about you warmly.

We know that some families do not celebrate at this time of year. Other families, including mine, celebrate holidays in addition to, or instead of, Christmas. This year the eight days of Hanukkah coincide with the week leading up to Christmas. Kwanzaa is from December 26 to January 1.

Whatever your traditions, we wish you and your family peace during the holidays and in the new year. We hope your holidays are joyful. We rejoice with you if they are. Our hearts and support are with you if they are not.

Every year we recognize that for some, this time of year can be the most challenging time of all because you have lost a child, perhaps due to an illness or health condition or an issue related to mental illness or addiction. As we do every year, we commit to you to remember your child and say their name. All of your children are precious to us.

Earlier in December, we shared practical articles about supporting your child's mental health during the holidays. This post from the McClean hospital has helpful tips for taking care of our mental health this time of the year.

Families as Allies is closed on December 23, 26 and 30 and January 2. We work remotely on December 22 and December 27-29 and can be reached at 601-355-0915 or info@faams.org on those days.

If your child or anyone you care about has a crisis over the holidays, we encourage you to call or text 988. Trained crisis counselors will support you and connect you to resources. They can also help you access a mobile crisis response team or a crisis stabilization unit if those are needed. 

Don't forget our Community Partnership Celebration is Monday, January 23, from 5 - 7:30 PM. Tickets and sponsorships are still available. Please join us.  

With my warmest thoughts,