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"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." - Albert Camus | |
Hope Report: Fall 2023 Newsletter | |
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Enjoy the sounds of Autumn while scrolling. | |
What is the "Hope Report"? The Hope Report is a bi-monthly newsletter that contains all of our organizational updates, for example: program initiatives, current supports being offered, future workshops, events and fundraisers, office closures, how we're doing and who we're supporting, and so much more! | |
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Join Us
THIS SATURDAY!
Our 5K Walk to Remember fundraising event is taking place this Saturday, September 30 from 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Lakeside Park in Mississauga (2268 Lakeshore Rd West).
It's a rain-or-shine event that's organized in partnership with BFO-Toronto, but proceeds raised from teams signed up with the Centre for Grief and Healing will be dedicated to the Centre for Grief and Healing.
Registration is free and every donation of $20 or more is eligible for a charitable tax receipt.
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Throughout the day, we have a lineup of (optional) free activities and heartfelt moments planned for everyone to enjoy.
We are delighted to offer:
- Our 5K walk
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Two (2) yoga sessions *bring your own mat*
- A sound healing exercise
- Four (4) activity stations: face painting, exploring artwork through found objects, a memorable time-capsule activity, and a heartwarming group collage project.
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Pictured here: Lakeside Park, Mississauga.
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If you have any questions about the Walk to Remember and/or fundraising, please reach out to Kelly Price, Fundraising Event Specialist, at fundraising@bereavedfamilies.ca
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Help Us Take the Next Stride! | | |
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As we step forward on the path to providing free supports, your generous contribution will be the driving force that propels us forward. Every donation makes a tremendous impact, allowing us to continue operating our charity and extending our compassionate reach to those in need. Let's walk together and conquer our goal! Join us in this uplifting journey and be a part of something truly special. Together, we can stroll toward new horizons and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
This year, we have a goal of raising $25,000 from our peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, and $100,000 total so we can reduce wait times and continue to provide grief supports free-of-charge for those who need it.
Here's where we're at so far with our peer-to-peer fundraising campaign:
- $12,406 raised
- 46 participants
- 18 teams
Thank you so much for your help and support! We are eternally grateful and it means the world to us. We're about halfway to our goal of raising $25,000 from our peer-to-peer campaign. Let's keep the momentum going so we can make an even larger impact!
Your support is vital: for every $8,230 we raise we can run a support group. For every $207, we can train a new volunteer.
This means that so far we have raised enough to run one support group and train 20 new volunteers! A huge thank you to everyone who helped us reach this point!
Here are some other ways you can support us:
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Start a team, raise funds and participate in our 5K Walk to Remember on your own time or by joining us at September 30 at Lakeside Park in Mississauga. To join or start a team, please click here.
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Make a donation. Please click here to make a donation.
- Spread the word to friends and family!
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Visit our website to learn more: www.bereavedfamilies.ca/walktoremember2023.
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Be a Champion of Change. Share our fundraising drive with your inner circle and amplify our impact together! | |
A Message from the Executive Director | | |
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Hello!
As we step into the fall season, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all of you who have been an integral part of the Centre for Grief and Healing. Our participants are at the heart of everything we do, and your stories of resilience and strength continue to inspire us daily. Your willingness to share your grief journey with us and each other creates a community of compassion and understanding that is truly remarkable.
Today, I'm thrilled to share some exciting updates with you. Thanks to the generous support of Region of Peel, we have received funding through both the Region of Peel's WRAP Fund and Region of Peel's Capacity Fund. These funds will significantly enhance our capacity to reach and support even more individuals and families on their grief journey. We are immensely grateful for their belief in our mission.
We are also proud to highlight our ongoing partnership with the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto. This collaboration allows us to pool our resources and expertise to provide comprehensive and responsive support to those in need. Together, we are stronger in our commitment to mental health and well-being in our community. Keep your eye out for an update on an upcoming event we are hosting in partnership with the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto for suicide loss survivors.
As we prepare for the holiday season, please note that our one-to-one and group services will be on hold from December 18th, 2023-January 2nd, 2024 to allow our dedicated team of volunteers, students, and staff to spend quality time with their loved ones. We believe in the importance of self-care, reducing burnout, and spending time with family and friends, however, we also understand that the holidays can be a particularly challenging period for those grieving the loss of a loved one. That's why we are thrilled to announce that we will be running a holiday specific GriefTalk during this period. Our GriefTalk will provide a space for our community to come together, share their experiences, and find the support they need during the holiday season. We want you to know that you are not alone, and we are here for you.
Once again, thank you for your incredible support. It is through your contributions, donations, partnerships, and dedication that we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those grieving in our community. Together, we are creating a more compassionate and understanding world.
Kindly,
Julia Duz, Executive Director
Centre for Grief and Healing
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Support Updates: January - August 31st 2023 | | |
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From January 10th-August 31st we've:
Supported 713+ group members through...
151 grief support group sessions.
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From January 10th-August 31st, we've:
Facilitated 698 one-to-one peer support sessions.
Welcomed 289 new members to the organization.
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Open/Ongoing Support Groups | |
Click the photo to view our frequently asked questions, how to register for group, group guidelines, and Fall 2023 groups, topics, and dates. This document comes attached to every group registration and can also be found on our website.
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Virtual Mixed Loss Group: every Tuesday, 6:30pm-8:00pm
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In-Person Mixed Loss Group: 3rd Monday of every month, except on holidays and during closures
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Virtual Parent & Guardian Loss Group: every Wednesday, 6:30pm-8:00pm
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Virtual Child Loss Group: bi-weekly Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:00pm
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Virtual Partner Loss Group: every Thursday, 6:30pm-8:00pm
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Griefwise: Tips and Insights for Grief and Healing | | |
Finding comfort in the seasons of grief. | |
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Embrace the Symbolism of Change
Fall is a season that embodies change, as trees shed their leaves and nature undergoes a transformation. Similarly, in grief, embracing change and acknowledging the ebb and flow of emotions is essential. Here's how to navigate this season of transition:
Tip: Allow Yourself to Let Go
Just as leaves gracefully let go of branches, allow yourself to let go of guilt or regret associated with your grief journey. Understand that it's natural to have a range of emotions, and it's okay to release them.
Tip: Seek Support Like a Safety Net
Fall is a season when animals often gather and seek shelter together for warmth and protection. In your grief, seek support from friends, family, or a support group. Surrounding yourself with a network of caring individuals can provide warmth and emotional shelter.
Tip: Find Beauty in Impermanence
Autumn's beauty lies in its impermanence, with vibrant leaves that eventually fall to the ground. Similarly, cherish the beauty in the memories you shared with your loved one. Remember that while they may be physically gone, their impact remains in your heart.
Tip: Self-Care Amidst Change
Just as the weather shifts, adapt your self-care routines to align with your emotional needs. Engage in activities that bring comfort and warmth, such as cozying up with a good book or enjoying a warm drink.
Tip: Embrace Moments of Stillness
Fall often brings moments of stillness as nature prepares for winter. Allow yourself quiet moments of reflection and meditation, where you can connect with your grief and find peace in the stillness.
Tip: Acknowledge the Harvest of Healing
Fall is a time of harvest, reaping the rewards of earlier efforts. Acknowledge the small steps you've taken in your grief journey and the progress you've made toward healing.
Tip: Accept the Natural Course of Grief
Just as fall follows its natural course, so does grief. It has its seasons of intensity and calm. Embrace these fluctuations as part of your healing process.
Tip: Renewal in Nature
Lastly, take solace in the renewal that follows fall. Winter may bring a sense of dormancy, but it's also a time for introspection and preparing for new beginnings. In grief, this may symbolize a sense of renewal and the potential for growth after mourning.
Remember that your grief journey is as unique as the changing seasons, and it's okay to experience it in your own way. By embracing the symbolism of change in fall, you can find comfort and healing in this transitional season.
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Continuing Your Bonds in Autumn |
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Harvest Celebration: Organize a gathering with friends and family to celebrate the fall harvest, sharing stories and memories of your loved one.
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Autumnal Picnic: Have a picnic in a beautiful park or garden, bringing along your loved one's favorite autumn foods and beverages.
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Candlelight Vigil: Host a candlelight vigil in a serene outdoor setting, where each participant can light a candle in memory of your loved one.
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Memory Walk: Organize a walk or hike in your loved one's name.
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Artistic Creations: Engage in autumn-themed arts and crafts that remind you of your loved one, such as painting, crafting, or making leaf arrangements.
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Cook Their Favorite Recipes: Prepare and share your loved one's favorite fall recipes with family and friends, keeping their culinary traditions alive.
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Visit Their Favorite Places (or places they wanted to/would have liked to visit): Take a trip to your loved one's favorite autumn destinations, whether it's a cozy cabin in the woods or a scenic overlook.
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Donate to a Cause: Contribute to a charity or cause that your loved one was passionate about, and encourage others to do the same.
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Fall-Focused Volunteer Work: Volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, or community organization during the fall season in memory of your loved one.
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Create a Memory Jar: Throughout the season, write down memories, thoughts, and messages for your loved one and place them in a memory jar.
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Scenic Drive: Go for a drive through scenic routes that showcase the breathtaking autumn foliage, reflecting on cherished memories along the way.
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Memory Quilt: Craft a quilt using fabrics that represent fall and incorporate meaningful pieces of clothing or textiles that belonged to your loved one.
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Outdoor Movie Night: Host an outdoor movie night screening your loved one's favorite fall-themed films, complete with blankets and popcorn.
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Walk to Remember Event: At the beginning of Fall, we have our annual Walk to Remember fundraising and commemorative event. We will have multiple memorial ideas you can participate in with us or during your own time during the event.
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Loving Memory Ceremony: Just before Winter, we have our annual Loving Memory Ceremony on December 7th. This event is held in a space where we remember, honor, and cherish our loved ones.
Remember that these activities can be tailored to your loved one's unique personality and interests, providing a meaningful and heartfelt way to keep their memory alive during the fall season.
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Finding Hope Again, Together. | |
Do you believe that there can be moments of hope and even joy amidst the pain and challenges of grief? At the Centre for Grief and Healing, we do. That's why we're searching for good news stories and testimonials of hope, resilience, and healing from individuals who have found ways to cope and thrive after experiencing the loss of a loved one.
By sharing your experiences, you can inspire and support others who are going through similar challenges. You can also honor the memory of your loved one and the impact they had on your life. We're committed to creating a brave and supportive space for you to share your story. If you're interested in sharing your experiences or have any questions, please reach out to us. Let's celebrate resilience and strength together.
Click the button below to learn more and to share your testimonial or story with us!
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Uniting Through Music
Music has the power to heal, uplift, and connect us in profound ways. Today, we invite you to become a part of our Spotify playlist project and share your favorite songs that bring you comfort or joy and/or that remind you of your loved ones.
We've curated two (2) powerful Spotify playlists (alongside our other ones!).
The first playlist is meant to be a source of comfort, solace, or joy – a collection of songs that have helped you find peace, happiness, or joy during challenging times and/or times of grief. The second playlist is a tribute to your loved ones – songs that remind you of them, celebrate their lives, and keep their memory alive. Feel free to contribute to one or both playlists.
Please avoid explicit or offensive content. Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels embraced and understood.
While we cannot guarantee that all songs will be posted (should they be explicit and/or offensive), each submission will be screened before being carefully curated into our Spotify playlists. At a later date, we will share the final playlists so that everyone can find solace and connection.
Your participation is entirely anonymous, so feel free to share your selections with utmost sincerity.
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Sujan has been a volunteer with the Centre for Grief and Healing since April 2023 and has supported the organization by facilitating various support groups. We are beyond grateful to Sujan for the contributions she has made to the community, participants, and the organization. We appreciate you and express gratitude for supporting the grieving community! 💛💜
| If you would like to volunteer with us, please contact our Volunteer Manager, Irish, at volunteering@bereavedfamilies.ca. | | |
Fallon Farinacci is Red River Métis and a child survivor, advocate and speaker for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ folx. Fallon testified in the National Inquiry for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, sharing her story of loss and trauma. | |
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Upcoming GriefTalks on October 5th - Register Now!
Join us for our final (and free) 2023 GriefTalks: The Genocide Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Folx Face on Thursday, October 5th, 2023, from 7:00pm-8:00pm EST.
Registration is completely free: www.bereavedfamilies.ca/grieftalks-fallonfarinacci.
The Zoom link will be sent via email once you register.
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Loving Memory Ceremony (LMC) | |
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Registrations for the event are now open, and we are also accepting submissions for the Scroll of Memories.
Save The Date: Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. EST at Unitarian Congregation Mississauga (84 South Service Road, Mississauga, L5G 2R9).
What is the Scroll of Memories?
A special presentation will be included in the ceremony where our community is invited to share a photo and tribute to the loved one(s) who are no longer here. It's a free and simple process: just upload a cherished photo and accompanying information in the link below. During our Loving Memory Ceremony event, we weave these precious memories into a beautiful video to pay homage to those we hold dear.
Click here for your Scroll of Memories submission.
Please submit your Scroll of Memories tribute and photo by Friday, November 24, 2023.
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This memorial event includes:
- Candle lighting ceremony
- Musical inspiration
- Poem readings
- Special guest speakers
- Scroll of Memories
- ...plus more.
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Join us as we pay tribute to and remember our loved ones who are no longer with us.
This event is free and all walks of life are welcome.
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The event will be taking place at Long Branch Legion (3850 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke) from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST. Registration and additional details to come, so please stay tuned! | |
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Save the Date
Join us for an event on Saturday, November 18th that we're hosting with the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto to mark International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. The event, called Conversations of Hope: A Day of Remembrance and Renewal, will honour those left behind as well as those we have lost to suicide.
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As the demand for our free and accessible grief supports grows rapidly, your support becomes invaluable. Every donation helps us continue providing essential services to those facing the challenges of grief.
Transparency is our commitment, and your contribution makes a significant impact:
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$35,023+: minimum investment for individual grief support sessions
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$33,652+: minimum investment for grief support groups
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$15,660+: minimum Administrative costs
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$3,320+: minimum investment for GriefTalks, our free TedTalk-like webinars featuring subject matter experts on grief and healing themes
You can donate today through our official donation channels here. Also, if you know now that you can't attend or participate in Walk to Remember this year, but would still like to contribute, you can donate here.
Your investment enables us to continue to provide free and accessible supports. Unlock the power of your compassion and invest in grief support, today!
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Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) | | |
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I.D.E.A Organization Statement
Fostering Hope and Healing for All Walks of Life.
We've come a long way since 1988 and still have a ways to go. Why? At the Centre for Grief and Healing (CFGH), diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility don't have an end date. We strive to foster an unending commitment to learning from, working with, creating programs for and supporting our diverse community members and their unique grief experiences. Our team is dedicated to including diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible practices at the center of our daily work. We commit to using and improving these practices for our organization and for our communities.
Our team provides mutual, inclusive support through diverse programming, endless advocacy, and community education. We strive to foster belonging and empowerment for all of our members, staff, volunteers, and students. We listen to and engage with all walks of life and we value and welcome all unique experiences and qualities: both visible and invisible. Our commitment to these values is unwavering and they are central to our purpose and to our impact.
Join us in embracing and celebrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all people in all communities.
We grow together today, to create a better tomorrow.
| National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | | |
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On September 30th, we recognize National Truth and Reconciliation Day, a day to reflect on the journey toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada. Our organization remains committed to this path and actively strives to address the Calls to Action put forth by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
As we continue our efforts, we call upon fellow grief and loss charities to join us in supporting these initiatives. Together, let us work toward a future where reconciliation is realized, and every voice is heard. Click here to see the Calls to Action we work toward and click here for a list of the Calls to Action.
Finding Our Power Together offers fantastic resources and services for the community. Check them out!
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Our Centre for Grief and Healing (CFGH) Team | | |
Greetings to all new members joining us! | |
As we continue to welcome new members to the organization, we wanted to say hello and welcome to the Centre for Grief and Healing (BFO-H/P).
This year, we had the pleasure of welcoming Kelly, our dedicated Fundraising & Events Specialist. Additionally, we were fortunate to have Amanda join us – originally a Canada Summer Jobs student, she continues to be a valuable part of our team, providing support in Sam's absence during her maternity leave.
This September, we extended a warm welcome to two new placement students joining our team: Jada and Aysia. Let's embrace them with open arms as they embark on their journey with us. Scroll below for a note from one of our students!
As a small yet powerful women-led team, we take pride in our unique perspectives and leadership. In addition, we're excited to note that October is Women's History Month, which holds a special place in our hearts as we celebrate our team and our founding by women. To learn more about us, click here, and don't forget to explore our Volunteer Recognition Wall, showcasing the generosity and dedication of our fantastic volunteers!
| A Note from Our Student, Jada | | |
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I learn new things about the Centre for Grief and Healing each day of my placement which has resulted in an increasing growth of appreciation for the team's commitment to the health and wellness of bereaved individuals and families.
I’m beyond excited to continue to honour that commitment by developing a Grief Support Group for POC (people of colour). Considering the heavy subject matter, I’ve been intrigued by the organization’s emphasis on yoga/movement, breathing exercises, and taking breaks. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by this kind of work so I’m grateful for the resources provided that focus on calming both the mind and body.
Thank you all for making me feel part of the team! I'm excited for what the future holds.
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Expressing Appreciation for Our Generous Funders and Community Support! | | |
Feedback, Comments, Suggestions | | |
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Comments, concerns, feedback, and compliments can always be forwarded to Victoria at programs@bereavedfamilies.ca. Anonymous feedback can be submitted to us here: www.bereavedfamilies.ca/contactus. Interested in having us run our Navigating Through Grief Workshop for you and your team/workplace/business/school? Reach out to Victoria to learn more.
Partnership opportunities, event support inquiries, and donation inquiries can be forwarded to Kelly and Julia at fundraising@bereavedfamilies.ca and executivedirector@bereavedfamilies.ca.
Looking to volunteer? Please contact Irish at volunteering@bereavedfamilies.ca with your interest.
All other inquiries (intakes, group registrations, getting set up with us) can be forwarded to Amanda at info@bereavedfamilies.ca.
Our next Hope Report will be sent in December 2023. Our Care Corner Wellness Newsletter will be sent in November 2023.
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