LAUREL HILL — Scotland Regional Hospice, a leading provider of end-of-life care and support in Scotland and surrounding counties, is set to host its annual grief camp for children.
The camp, known as Camp Spinoza, will take place on June 1-2 at the beautiful Monroe Camp and Retreat Center in Laurel Hill. This unique camp is specially designed for children between the ages of 5-12 who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one.
“One of the most difficult experiences that a child can go through is losing a parent, sibling, or close family member,” shared Tanya Williams, Scotland Regional Hospice bereavement coordinator. “The grieving process can be overwhelming and confusing for young minds, who may not have the emotional vocabulary to express their feelings. At Camp Spinoza, children are provided with a safe and supportive environment where they can learn to navigate their grief in a healthy and constructive way.”
The camp is free of charge for all participants, thanks to the generous support of the Scotland Memorial Foundation and its donors. The campers do not have to be related to a Scotland Regional Hospice patient, they just have to have had a loss in the last year. Campers will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of traditional camp activities, such as arts and crafts, nature walk, and swimming, that are designed to promote bonding and friendship among the group. In addition, certified grief counselors will be on hand to provide individual and group counseling sessions tailored to the specific needs of each child.
“The significance of a grief camp like Camp Spinoza cannot be overstated,” Williams continued. “It offers children the chance to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, creating a sense of solidarity and understanding that can be comforting in times of grief. By engaging in activities and discussions that address their feelings head-on, children can begin to process their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms for the future.”
Scotland Regional Hospice is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families facing end-of-life issues. The organization understands the importance of addressing the unique needs of grieving children and is committed to offering programs like Camp Spinoza that help them navigate their grief journey.
For families who have recently experienced a loss and are seeking support for their children, Camp Spinoza is a valuable resource. For more information or to register, please call 910-276-7176.
