UPCOMING SUPPORT GROUPS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

We are offering a number of support groups and educational programs this spring, beginning in March. Our services are free and confidential. Screening for groups is required. For more information please contact Dina Etmanskie, Manager of Programs and Volunteers at 905-318-0070 ore email MPV@bfo-hamiltonburlington.on.ca

Perinatal Loss Support Group (March 1 - May 10. Thursdays 7:00 - 9:00pm)

BFO is offering a support group for parents who have experienced a miscarriage, still birth or the death of an infant younger than 28 days. This group is an opportunity to learn, share, and gain support from others who have had a similar experience.

T.L.C. For Kids Group (March 21 - May 23. Wednesdays 6:30 - 7:30pm)

BFO is offering a group for 5-8 year olds and a group for 9-13 year olds who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, relative or friend. Children will be helped to express their grief through discussion, art, music, sharing of keepsakes, and pictures.

Support Group for Mothers of Older Children (April 3 - June 19. Tuesdays 7:00 - 9:00pm)

BFO is offering a group for mothers who have experienced the death of a child. The group is an opportunity to learn, share, and gain support from others.  Topics include talking about feelings, the death itself and the funeral, changing relationships with family and friends, and new beginnings.

Growing Through Grief Young Adult Group (April 3 - June 5. Tuesdays 7:00 - 9:00pm)

Young adults (19-35 years) have their own unique set of challenges, and those who have lost a parent or a sibling need a special kind of care. This group provides an opportunity to learn, share, and gain support from other young adults.

Healing With Hope Monthly Support Evenings (March 14, April 11, May 9, June 13. 7:00 - 8:30pm)

Our Healing with Hope evenings are offered alternately between Hamilton and Burlington locations. The evenings are designed to provide some basic grief and bereavement education as well as a time for sharing.

Volunteer Open House (March 27. 6:30 - 8:00pm)

At the Open House, prosepective volunteers will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with BFO staff, tour our office and learn about the various positions that are available.

Missing Pieces Workshop for Teens (April 13, April 17, May 17. 9:00am - 3:00pm)

These one-day workshops are presented by BFO in partnership with local school boards. They provide a safe, non-judgemental opportunity for teens who have experinece the death of a family member or close friend to share with each other their experiences, feelings and thoughts about the person who has died.

Support Group Facilitator Training (May 5, May 12, May 26, June 2. 9:00am - 3:00pm)

The BFO model is distinct in that group facilitators are bereaved individuals who have participated  in a BFO support group at one time and hgave received professional training to become group leaders. Volunteering as a support group facilitator provides an opportunity for those who have been helped to help other families in turn.