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

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Watch the Story here

Valerie’s House is incredibly grateful to WINK News for spotlighting our 10-year anniversary and the impact this community has made possible over the last decade.

Founded in 2016, Valerie’s House was created to support grieving children, teens, and families across Southwest Florida — offering a safe, welcoming place where they can feel seen, heard, and supported after the loss of a loved one. Over the past 10 years, thousands of kids and caregivers have walked through our doors, finding connection through peer support groups, therapy, creative expression, and shared understanding.

In the story, WINK News Reporter Camila Pereira shared how Valerie’s House has become more than a program for many families — it’s a place that feels like home. For kids navigating grief, it’s a space where they’re reminded they’re not alone and that their feelings matter.

The coverage also highlighted the heart behind our mission. Valerie’s House is named in honor of our Founder and CEO Angela Melvin Churchill’s mother, Valerie, who died in a car crash in Fort Myers in 1987. That personal loss inspired a vision that continues to guide our work today.

As part of the milestone, Valerie’s House was recognized by the City of Fort Myers and Lee County for its decade-long impact supporting grieving families throughout the region. The proclamation reflects not just 10 years of service, but 10 years of community — built by families, volunteers, donors, partners, and advocates who believe no child should grieve alone.

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