03/19/2026
On Friday, March 13, Richmond County Hospice hosted our annual Children’s Grief Camp, “Camp Haven.” Forty-seven children in grades Kindergarten through eighth who have experienced a recent loss attended the event. Our hope is that this day provides a safe space for children to share their loss, learn effective coping strategies, express their emotions and feelings, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their grief.
This year’s theme was Up. The movie Up tells the story of Carl, an elderly widower who spent his life dreaming of adventure with his wife, Ellie. After Ellie passes away, Carl feels lonely and disconnected from the world. The film illustrates how people work through grief by showing Carl’s journey after her death. At the beginning, Carl is withdrawn and focused on holding onto the past, symbolized by protecting his home and attempting to complete the trip he and Ellie once planned together. As the story progresses, Carl forms new relationships with Russell, Dug, and Kevin. These connections help him realize that while he will always love and remember Ellie, life can still include new experiences and meaningful relationships. The film shares an important message about grief: honoring memories while learning to move forward. Carl ultimately understands that his life with Ellie was already the adventure they dreamed of, and that continuing to live and connect with others is part of healing.
The day began with breakfast, including biscuits donated by Biscuitville. The children then enjoyed watching the movie Up before being divided into groups based on grade level to rotate through six themed stations. Each station related to the movie and provided different grief activities focused on expression, coping, and connection. Sandhills Best Care generously allowed seven of their mental health therapists to join us, which enabled each grade-level group to have a therapist present throughout the day to provide additional support for campers as needed. Lunch was provided and served mid-day by Church Of God Of Prophecy of Hamlet, N.C..
We would like to thank every staff member and volunteer who provided helping hands throughout the day. We also greatly appreciate our dedicated sponsors: Rockingham Office, North Carolina Farm Bureau Insurance, the Rockingham Rotary Club, and Outreach For Jesus.
Because of their generosity and support, this event continues to be possible and remains a meaningful experience for many youth in our community.
