Opioid addiction has taken a dramatic toll on Ohio and has prompted a new focus at Pathways of Hope, the grief support service of Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton. More and more, children impacted by parental overdose deaths are finding their way to Pathways of Hope for grief support.

Helping overdose survivors is an example of Pathways of Hope outreach to the community. Grief support is available to the community from Pathways of Hope for any loss, including those caused by drug overdose. Grief support services are free as the result of community donations and support.

Lisa Balster, Director of Patient and Family Support Services emphasizes that grief support can be beneficial for children regardless of how they may have lost a loved one. “We want the community to know we can help kids who have lost someone – whether the result of overdose, suicide, homicide, disease or accident. We offer free bereavement services and are an underutilized resource.”

Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton started Camp Pathways to bring together the best of summer camp experiences  –  making new friends and experiencing new adventures – with services and support to ease the pain of kids who have lost loved ones. Camp Pathways is open to, children ages 7 to 17, offering an overnight camp experience and camp activities such as swimming, campfires, arts and crafts, canoeing, fishing, a climbing wall, rope course, and music.  In addition to these traditional camp activities, children participate in grief support activities and a moving memorial service honoring the loved ones lost by campers.  Held at the Camp Joy Outdoor Education Center in Warren County, the 2018 Camp Pathways program will be offered Friday, June 22 and ends Sunday, June 24.  Advance registration is required and is available online here.

Fees for the camp are $20 for one camper; $30 for two campers; $40 for three or more.  Scholarships are available to assist those with financial need.

Additional information is available by contacting Pathways of Hope at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton:  937-258-4991 OR 1-800-653-4490, ext. 1135.