For 30 years, East End Hospice’s Camp Good Grief has provided children and teens with a safe and supportive place to grieve, heal, and discover they are not alone.
This summer, East End Hospice celebrated the 30th anniversary of Camp Good Grief, honoring three decades of compassion, connection, and memories shared by campers, families, volunteers, and staff. Held at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches, the program brought together children ages 4–17 who have experienced the death of a loved one.
Throughout the week, campers participated in therapeutic activities, creative expression, outdoor adventures, and traditional camp fun. Through art, music, games, group discussions, and memory-sharing activities, children were able to honor their loved ones, express their feelings, and develop healthy coping skills in a caring environment.
One of the most powerful aspects of Camp Good Grief is the community it creates. Children who may feel alone quickly discover they are surrounded by peers who understand their experiences. Friendships form, stories are shared, and campers leave with renewed strength, comfort, and hope.
“Camp Good Grief reminds children that grief is something they do not have to face alone,” said Camp Director Angela Byrns, LCSW. “Watching campers support one another, share their memories, and find moments of joy together is truly inspiring.”
While Camp Good Grief is a special week each summer, the support continues year-round through the Zinberg Family Bereavement Center. The Center provides grief support for children, teens, and families through counseling, bereavement groups, creative expression, and therapeutic programs that help children navigate life after loss.
Camp Good Grief has improved thousands of children’s lives since its founding in 1997. Made possible through the dedication of East End Hospice staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners, the program continues to provide this vital service free of charge to families.
As East End Hospice celebrates this milestone, we honor every camper and family who has shared their journey with us and every volunteer and supporter who has helped make Camp Good Grief a place of healing, hope, and connection for generations of children.
Here’s to 30 years of Camp Good Grief—and to continuing to help children and families find their way through grief and toward healing.
