WINK News Highlights Valerie’s House 10-Year Impact Supporting Grieving Families in Southwest Florida

Valerie’s House is grateful to WINK News for highlighting our 10-year anniversary and the impact this community has made possible for grieving children and families across Southwest Florida.

Watch the full WINK News story here:
https://www.winknews.com/nonprofit-organization-recognized-for-its-decade-long-support-to-grieving-families/video_7b8a40ca-f7bd-5649-8d0a-b2d9e0a78640.html

Founded in 2016, Valerie’s House was created to help children, teens, and families work through the loss of a loved one together. Over the last decade, thousands of kids and caregivers have found support through peer grief groups, counseling, creative activities, and a community that understands grief.

In the WINK News story, reporter Camila Pereira shared how Valerie’s House has become more than a program for many families. It is a place that feels like home. For kids navigating the death of someone they love, Valerie’s House offers a safe and welcoming space where they can talk about their person, express their feelings, and know they are not alone.

The story also highlighted the heart behind the mission. Valerie’s House is named in honor of Founder and CEO Angela Melvin Churchill’s mother, Valerie, who died in a car crash in Fort Myers in 1987. Angela was just 10 years old when her mother died, and that loss later inspired her to create a place where no child would have to grieve alone.

As part of this milestone year, Valerie’s House was also recognized by the City of Fort Myers and Lee County for its decade-long impact supporting grieving families throughout the region. The recognition reflects 10 years of service, connection, and community built by families, volunteers, donors, partners, and advocates who believe in the mission of Valerie’s House.

We are deeply thankful to WINK News for helping share this story and for honoring the children and families who trust Valerie’s House during some of the hardest moments of their lives.