Hospice of North County to Host Children's Camp Aug. 3

Editor's note: The following was submitted by Hospice of North County:

Hospice of the North Coast (HNC) invites children and families grieving the loss of a loved one to attend its annual Healing Outdoor Play Experience known as Camp H.O.P.E. on August 3, 2013 from 8 am- 6 pm at Green Oak Ranch in Vista.

The retreat provides therapeutic activities in a fun and nurturing environment specifically aimed at helping grieving children seven years of age and older find their way to a new normal. As a family event, it also guides adults in how to take care of themselves while caring for their children during this challenging time.

Activities include therapy dogs, a petting corral, hayrides, yoga, expressive arts, massage and a drumming circle. The day of fun and inspiration culminates with a ceremonial tree planting that serves as a poignant memorial to loved ones and a symbol of the continuation of life’s journey.  

The $50 per family registration fee covers all activities and food as well as a commemorative t-shirt. The Camp is offered free to military families. Scholarships are available to qualifying families. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.hospicenorthcoast.org or call 760-431-4100 to register.

Director of Bereavement Ti Johnson says children can feel overwhelmed and isolated by the death of a family member. “We structure Camp H.O.P.E. to address children’s special needs and enable them to interact with humans and animals in a warm and friendly way. Just having a dog to hug can do wonders for the healing process,” she believes. 

Camper-turned-volunteer Brianna Ortiz confides, “I was just nine when I lost my dad in 2001. Camp H.O.P.E. was wonderful for me. I connected instantly with other kids in the same situation. We understood what each of us was going through. That experience enabled me as a volunteer to connect with campers and help them connect with each other.” 

Camp H.O.P.E. is supported by HNC’s 2013 Hope Bereavement Center title sponsor, Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary and Crematory FD234, as well as by AKT Certified Public Accountants, Oceanside Civitan and Kiwanis Club of Oceanside Pacific. Other sponsors/donations are welcomed. 

Nonprofit Hospice of the North Coast was established in 1980 to fill the need for comprehensive, compassionate hospice care in North County San Diego. Since its inception, it has grown in services, staff and clients. It currently provides a full spectrum of programs to terminally ill clients and their families, including anticipatory and post-death bereavement support, as well as a Pathways Program for those with a declining chronic disease. To fulfill its goal of maintaining dignity, comfort and highest quality of life for those it serves, regardless of ability to pay, HNC hosts fundraising events, operates a family support camp and resale shop, and maintains a cadre of volunteers.  In Fall 2013, HNC will open its new six-bedroom Pacifica House residential facility in Carlsbad. The residence will be the first such freestanding facility in North County.