Mountain Hospice held their annual Camp Good Grief, a free one-day camp for children who have experienced grief, at the Elkins First United Methodist Church on Tuesday. Local children were able to enjoy a fun-filled day with activities, games, and crafts that related to the grieving process. From painting their feelings, to a puppet show, campers learned ways to express their feelings in a positive way.

Patty Delauder, Bereavement and Volunteer Coordinator with Mountain Hospice, said, “These camps are a great way for the kids to express their grief. Sometimes children bottle up their emotions and don’t know who to talk to, so this camp is a great way for them to learn how to cope with grief and learn what is normal when grieving.”

The campers were also treated with a visit from the Elkins Fire Department. They learned how to stay safe in case of an emergency, how the fire engine works, and not to be afraid or scared of firemen and other public safety personnel. Mountain Hospice’s family of Bears, Comfort and Compassion, made a surprise appearance as well.

Austin Currence, Marketing Assistant with Mountain Hospice, explained, “The kids we have here today have been through a lot. If we can just show one kid that they’re not alone, and that there are ways to cope, that sounds like a good day to me.”

Mountain Hospice holds five Camp Good Grief dates each summer to cover their service area. Camps are held in Randolph, Barbour, Tucker, Pendleton, and Keyser Counties. Each Camp Good Grief is a free event, with lunch provided. Transportation is available.

For more information on Camp Good Grief, or for more information on Mountain Hospice, call (304) 823-3922.