Grief and the Holidays Workshop
The holidays feel different when someone is missing.
Anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one is invited to a free Grief and the Holidays Workshop on December 4 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Heartlinks Grief Support Room (204 W. 2nd Street, Grandview).
Attendees will learn how to understand their grief and honor those they miss during the holiday season. The workshops will be led by Heartlinks’ Joan Souders, a certified grief educator, and Craig Timmons, M.Div., a board-certified chaplain.
Grief and the Holidays Workshop
Thursday, December 4
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Heartlinks Grandview Grief Support Room
204 W. 2nd Street (downstairs)
“It can be helpful to spend time with others who have suffered similar losses to remind ourselves that we aren’t alone,” says Timmons. “Spending time together also normalizes and validates our feelings. We hope these workshops can be a safe place for this to happen.”
At the workshop, you’ll get answers to questions such as, “What holiday events would be best for me to attend this year?” and “Should I start new traditions without my loved one?”
The workshop is open to the public. RSVP is not required. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend or family member with them who may also benefit from the one-hour discussion.
The holidays are not always a joyful time after the death of a family member or friend. Traditions and the sense of togetherness are changed forever. If this is how you feel, or you know someone who may be suffering this time of year, Heartlinks’ bereavement support staff can help you navigate the holidays and other special times of the year.
If you are unable to attend this workshop or wish to speak to a grief counsellor one-on-one, you may call 509-837-1676, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Our team offers free individual grief counseling year-round.
Year-Round Grief Support Groups
In addition to the annual Grief and the Holidays Workshops, Heartlinks hosts eight monthly Grief Support Groups throughout Benton and Yakima counties. RSVP is not required, and support groups are open to anyone who has lost a loved one, whether or not they were on Heartlinks hospice care.
Free Online Grief Resources
Free grief support resources, including a place to light a digital candle for your loved one, are available at www.HeartlinksHospice.org/grief-support. Complete our form to request many free grief-support books and media, including our Blooming Hearts Grief Support Kit for children and teens.
