Free bereavement camp offered for children

DOVER-FOXCROFT – The Pine Tree Hospice, a United Way of Eastern Maine agency, will hold its first annual Children’s Bereavement Camp this summer for children ages 7 through 13 who have experienced the death of a loved one.

Fifteen children will join hospice staff and volunteers from Aug. 10-12 at the East Sangerville Grange to help children cope with grief through interaction with each other, trained “Big Buddies” and facilitators who conduct group discussions.

The children will participate in recreational activities including a hike with a scavenger hunt, swimming at the YMCA, a presentation from the Chewonki Foundation, games and storytelling. The camp will close with a special memorial service. The only camp of its kind in the state, it is free to all participants.

Applications must be submitted no later than July 6. Pine Tree Hospice has been providing grief support services for three years and is committed to meeting the growing needs of the community. To register a child or for information, call Pine Tree hospice at 564-4346 or e-mail hospice@kynd.net.