Billy’s Place is a free Children’s Grief Support Center in the West Valley. There are very few programs that cater to children when it comes to grief and loss. Billy’s Place is serving that need by offering ongoing support and education groups each month. Support groups include loss of a parent, loss of a sibling, YA Grief (Young Adult), TLG (Traumatic Loss Group which includes losses of suicide, homicide, and overdose) as well as a kicking back night for children only. The children participate in activities that are designed to help them discuss death through their play, art, storytelling, music, and talking.
With assistance from Thunderbirds Charities, this investment will assist with expanding the outreach with local schools. Resources, training, and support are provided so educators are better equipped to understand and offer much-needed support during this mental health crisis. “Local educators have been so supportive in the partnership with Billy’s Place in learning how to better equip their kiddos who have lost a significant person. Because of support from organizations like Thunderbirds Charities, we are able to help train educators and offer support to families free of charge as they navigate their grief journey. The children of our community deserve to have a safe place to mourn the loss and learn healthy coping skills after a special person in their life has died”, quoted founder Juli McGreal. “We are honored to serve these families in their darkest days”, concluded McGreal.
This grant is part of the Spring 2021 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.