Pensacola News Journal

By Madison Arnold

Crista Brandt was just 11 years old when she lost her mother to cancer.

At her young age, she didn't know any other children going through the same experience, leaving her without any peers to help her cope with her grief.

That's why today as an adult, she is working to open Valerie's House Pensacola, a new chapter of a nonprofit grief center for children that started in Fort Myers. The Pensacola chapter of Valerie's House will open April 20 and provide peer-to-peer support groups.

"I didn't know anybody else who was going through the same thing that I was going through. And because of that, I didn't deal with grief in a very positive way," Brandt said. "(We) just really want to give these children an opportunity to connect with others, and know that they're not alone, and help them work through their grief."

Valerie's House will provide twice-monthly support groups for children between the ages of 4 and 19 who have lost a sibling, parent or main caregiver (often a grandparent). During the sessions, children will be separated into various age groups to discuss a given topic or theme and complete activities like journaling, art and music.

At the same time, there also is a support group offered to the caregivers of grieving children.

The organization will be tracking the progress of children, such as their ability to speak about the loss of their loved one and maintain grades and current activities, as well as just getting through their everyday lives. To do this, the kids fill out surveys throughout their time in Valerie's House, which can last for as long as they need.

The program is run by volunteers and is offered as a free service to the community. Those who are interested in enrolling can do so by calling 850-582-8255.

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