Adventist St. Thomas Hospice is offering its sixth annual Tommy’s Kids Summer Camp, a bereavement day camp for children ages 5 to 12, from July 11-15.
For information about volunteering as a camp counselor or to register a child for camp, contact Heather Kochen at (630) 856-6985.
While the death of a close friend or family member can be a painful and confusing time for anyone, it is especially difficult for children.
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Adventist St. Thomas Hospice offers support throughout the year for grieving children through a program called Tommy’s Kids Support Group. Tommy’s Kids Summer Camp allows the hospice to serve an even larger population of kids.
The cost is $50 per child with some scholarships available.
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Enrollment is limited to 30 children because the ratio of campers to counselors is one to one.
The camp is staffed by Adventist St. Thomas Hospice staff and specially-trained volunteers.
Activities include nature hikes, arts and crafts, miniature golf, obstacle courses and water balloon battles. Campers will learn to express themselves through bereavement activities including journaling exercises, discussions on different types of feelings, puppet shows and a therapy dog visit.
Children should bring a sack lunch each day, including a drink, and wear comfortable shoes.
“It’s important for grieving children to know that it is OK to still laugh and have fun,” said Kochen, youth coordinator for Adventist St. Thomas Hospice, “and at the same time, the camp gives the children the tools and resources to work through their loss.”
The Hinsdale Hospital Foundation is seeking sponsorships and underwriters on behalf of the hospice. For information, call (630) 856-2000.
