Valerie’s House was recently featured in The News-Press, Naples Daily News, Gulfshore Business, and Bella Magazine for awarding $37,000 in scholarships to 14 local students who are part of our grief support programs.
Their stories are powerful reminders of why we do what we do.
“I wanted to give up many times but decided I had to keep going. Valerie’s House gave me something to look forward to and gave me back some of the family I had lost.” —Kitty Hughes, scholarship recipient
Cal Rimes, Scholarship recipient
“Valerie’s House has helped me by showing me I’m not alone, and it has given me a space to express myself in a healthy way.” —Cal Rimes, scholarship recipient
Each of these young adults submitted essays reflecting on how the loss of a parent, sibling, or caregiver shaped their lives. Many have been part of Valerie’s House for years—growing in confidence, finding their voice, and building a strong foundation for the future.
The Valerie’s House scholarship program is now in its fourth year, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, renewable for up to three years based on academic progress. These scholarships are made possible entirely through private and community donations.
We are so grateful to our media partners for helping shine a light on these inspiring students—and to our generous supporters for making it all possible.
To our 2025 scholarship recipients: congratulations. Your Valerie’s House family is proud of you.
You May Like
You Are Not Alone: Ashley’s Message to Grieving Teens
When Ashley Wong lost her mom, Kelly, she was just 16 years old. One day, life felt normal. The next, everything changed. Like many grieving teens, Ashley found herself navigating a world that suddenly looked different. Milestones, celebrations, and everyday moments became reminders of someone she loved and missed. https://youtu.be/u0liaj-8as4
Valerie's House Children and Teens Featured on ESPN with Captain James Marko
Children and teens from Valerie's House were featured on ESPN through a special episode created by Southwest Florida native and ESPN fishing host Captain James Marko. Screenshot The episode highlighted an unforgettable experience for children and teens in the Valerie's House program, many of whom have experienced the death of
Angela Melvin Shares Childhood Grief Message in The News-Press
During Children’s Grief Awareness Month, Valerie’s House Founder and CEO Angela Melvin was featured in The News-Press with a powerful opinion piece about the words grieving children hear — and why communities must do better in supporting kids after the death of a loved one. In the article, Angela shares
