Camp Erin Online: Bringing Families Together

When grieving the death of someone close to them, it’s common for youth to feel alone in their experience and disconnected from their support system.

Camp Erin® Online expands the reach of our traditional in-person Camp Erin programs offering grief education and emotional support specifically geared to the entire family. Families participate in fun, interactive online activities focused on community and connection with each other and with other families who have had similar experiences. Priority is given to frontline healthcare workers and other families grieving the death of someone from COVID-19, as well as to families who experienced a death since 2020. Camp Erin Online programs are offered at no cost for all who attend and expand the Camp Erin experience to those unable to attend camp.

Said one participant mother, “Camp Erin Online gave us the safe space to simply be together and have fun in the company of others who may be going through the same kinds of things that we are.” Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone is a great first step forward for all.

Families Come Together Online with Camp Erin   

Camp Erin Online was launched through the generous support of the Brave of Heart Fund, founded by the foundations of New York Life and Cigna and administered by E4E Relief. Our first event, on December 3, 2022, was called Gratitude and Grief and welcomed a diverse mix of parents and children.

Coming Together with Understanding

Camp Erin Online works to open a window for families to see families with shared experience. Simple, fun projects and guided conversations help camp participants remember that they are not alone and reconnect with community of people as they process grief.

Families who attended found a safe environment and emotional support doing projects with the support of bereavement professionals and caring volunteers. One mother expressed the value of Camp Erin Online for their family and their journey to be a part of it.

“My son and I joined Camp Erin Online after my husband/my son’s dad died in September of 2022. Soon after [he] died, my son said he felt different than all of the other kids at school and he really wanted to meet kids like him. The event allowed us to have fun together, during a time that didn’t have much joy and laughter. In the end, my son really enjoyed the activities and the box of goodies that was sent to our house!  

Camp Erin Online really helped us feel as though we were not alone. Seeing other moms being strong and supportive helped me, too, feel as though there are others who understand.”

Camp Erin Online’s free bereavement events continue throughout the year. Grief Compass Groups support families in finding their way through grief. Families are invited to come and experience community with other families who are grieving on the 2nd Thursday of each month for one hour. These groups are accessible nationally and families can choose to opt in or out each month.

Our next Self-Care Spotlight will take place on Saturday, October 7th. Self-Care Spotlight: Mindfulness and Movement will shine a spotlight on taking care of yourself in the midst of your grief while still having the space to honor and remember the person who died. Watch for more details later this summer or find out more about all our upcoming programs at https://elunanetwork.org/camp-erin-online/programs.