April 8–May 17
When a loved one dies, everyone in their family is touched by this loss. Children and teens are especially affected by losses and other important life changes. Jewish Family Service’s counseling staff, through the Dozoretz Center for Healing and Jessica Glasser Therapeutic Pavilion, specializes in helping individuals of all ages cope with loss and grieving. One component of this program is a free support group for children, teens, and their families who have experienced the death of a loved one: Peace by Piece. Peace by Piece is operated by Edmarc Hospice for Children in collaboration with JFS.
Now in its ninth year, JFS and Edmarc co-sponsor an annual art show that showcases the drawings and poetry of local grieving children and teens. This show is open to any school-aged youth in Tidewater who has experienced the death of a loved one. Hundreds of pictures have been submitted over the years and it is a real healing opportunity for children and teens to see that they are not alone. This year, after the Grieving Children’s Art Show artwork is displayed in the Leon Family Art Gallery at the Simon Family JCC, the pictures will return to either JFS or Edmarc for display the rest of the year.