HUGS-Healing and Understanding through Grief Support

Grief is one of life’s most universal experiences — yet it can often feel isolating. Each person’s journey through loss is unique, but that doesn’t mean you have to walk it alone. The HUGs Grief Support Group was created to offer a safe, understanding space where individuals can share, listen, and heal together.

We believe that healing begins with connection. Whether your loss is recent or many years old, our peer-led group provides comfort, compassion, and community as you navigate life after loss.

What Is the HUGs Grief Support Group?

HUGs (Healing and Understanding through Grief Support) is a peer-led grief support group open to anyone experiencing loss of a loved one due to chronic or terminal illness. Our sessions are designed to help participants explore their emotions, find encouragement, and learn healthy coping tools in a safe and supportive setting.

Registration is not required — anyone is welcome to join at any time. Each meeting is facilitated by a member of our Family Services team. While our group offers emotional support and shared understanding, we also want participants to know that HUGs is not a substitute for professional mental health counseling. Instead, it serves as a meaningful complement to other forms of care and healing.

What to Expect in our Grief Support Group

For many, attending a support group for the first time can feel intimidating. Knowing what to expect can help ease that worry. Our HUGs sessions follow a thoughtful, consistent structure designed to promote comfort, safety, and connection.

• A Safe & Confidential Beginning: Each session starts with a warm welcome from our facilitator and a clear, compassionate review of our shared ground rules. We emphasize that HUGs is a strictly confidential, non-judgmental, and respectful space where every person is heard and honored.
• Checking In and Connecting: Participants are invited (but never required) to share where they are on their journey—we call this the “check-in.” This moment acknowledges that grief is always changing, day to day and moment to moment.
• The Heart of the Discussion: Every meeting centers around a specific theme designed to help explore different aspects of loss and healing. Topics are focused on tangible tools like coping strategies, self-care, and understanding the nature of grief. You’ll have the chance to listen to others, share your own insights, and learn what has been helpful for others.
• Leaving with Peace: Light refreshments are available throughout the session to create a nurturing atmosphere. We conclude with a brief routine or reflection—such as a quiet reading or a moment of intention—to ensure everyone leaves with a sense of calm and grounding.

Why Support Groups Matter

Grief can make us feel alone, even when surrounded by others. Support groups remind us that our feelings are valid and that healing is possible when shared in community. Through HUGs, participants often discover that expressing grief aloud, being witnessed by others who understand, and listening to others’ stories can bring profound relief and connection.

How to Join or Learn More

Because HUGs is a peer-led group, there’s no need to register in advance — simply come as you are. Whether you attend once or become a regular part of the group, you’ll be welcomed with understanding and care.

Healing Through Connection

Grief is a lifelong journey without a finish line. But through shared understanding and compassionate connection, we find the strength to keep going. At our support group, your memories are honored, your heart is heard, and healing begins. Come be part of a community that truly understands. Find your footing—one story, one connection, one intentional step at a time.