Grieving is an important and necessary part of adjusting to and coping with the loss of a loved one. Grief is a natural reaction to loss, and one that each of us experiences differently.

Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice bereavement services help individuals move through the grief process and are available for adults and children. All bereavement services are offered at no cost to the participant.

For our hospice families
Bereavement staff and volunteers offer support to family members of our hospice patients for 13 months following the loss of a loved one, and provide: 

• Bi-monthly newsletter covering grief and bereavement topics
• Follow up phone calls and one-on-one visits
• Memorial services honoring hospice patients who recently passed away 

For the community
Supportive Groups
Pathways through Grief and Guidance through Grief adult support groups are held in various locations throughout our service area and are facilitated by trained volunteers. The groups are open to anyone in the community who is coping with a loss.

Bereavement after Suicide support group addresses the special needs and feelings of individuals coping with a loss due to suicide.

Program for Grieving Children & Teens
A 10-week program designed for children and teens (ages 3-18) that have experienced the loss of a loved one. The program provides a trusting environment where feelings of loss and grief can be shared with others in similar circumstances. Participants are divided into age groups and take part in activities such as art, music and discussions that help them communicate their feelings.

Special Events
Butterfly Release Celebration
Each summer Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice hosts a special event where community members can honor a loved one by dedicating a butterfly in their memory. The moving event includes the reading of names and culminates with the mass release of butterflies. Proceeds from the butterfly release support care provided at the Hospice House.