New Overdose Loss Support Group in Yakima
A new support group for those who have experienced the death of a loved one due to overdose or substance use disorder begins September 9 at 6 p.m. in Yakima.
During the six, monthly sessions, attendees will feel safe and supported as they connect with others who have lost a loved one and walk through their grief without the stigma or shame associated with addiction.
Scott Klepach, M.Div., chaplain and grief specialist for Heartlinks, and Jaelyn Lindsey, LICSW, medical social worker for Heartlinks, will facilitate each support session that will include a time of teaching and voluntary discussion.
If you have ever wondered, “Did I do enough to help?”, this support group is for you. Please join as often as possible, even if you cannot attend all six sessions.
Free for the Community
The support group is free thanks to a grant from Yakima County Human Services in partnership with Heartlinks and the Yakima Valley Community Foundation.
Community member Megan Tweedy led the effort to create this support group by applying for and receiving funds through the Yakima County Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery: Opioid Settlement RFP earlier this year.
“I thought, what better use of the money than providing treatment of trauma for surviving family members who had been devastated by the opioid epidemic,” says Tweedy.
After her brother died of a fentanyl overdose in 2020, Tweedy connected with others who had experienced a similar sibling loss. They introduced their mothers to one another and began an informal gathering called “Grief Moms”.
Through her volunteer work in overdose prevention, Megan discovered the unmet need of support for those who have lost a loved one to overdose.
“Addiction is one of the most stigmatizing conditions that exists,” says Tweedy. “I know because I was guilty of it myself. Many who have experienced trauma are at an elevated risk for addiction and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Talking about all of this, seeking resources to support families, these are the healing steps to healthier communities.”
Future Plans
What will happen after this six-month program? Tweedy hopes other funding sources will become available to further support the county’s many families fractured by substance use disorder and overdose.
If you have questions or are interested in attending, please let organizers know by filling out the form at heartlinkshospice.org/overdose-loss-support-group. RSVP is not required to attend.
Plans and funding are secured for a second series for native Spanish speakers, which will begin later this calendar year. More information and dates to follow.
Overdose Loss Support Group Sessions
6-7 p.m. at Wellness House (6006 Summitview Ave., Yakima)
- September 9, 2025
- October 14, 2025
- November 11, 2025
- December 9, 2025
- January 13, 2026
- February 10, 2026
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