The NorthStar – Child Grief Program hosted its 2nd Annual Summer Carnival at Wickham Park to kick-off summer. Over 100 NorthStar families and volunteers were in attendance.
Children indulged in popcorn and snow cones. They enjoyed having their face painted, water fights to beat the heat, and a bit of friendly competition. Each of the St. Francis Reflections clinical teams donated gift baskets for raffle prizes so every NorthStar family member walked away a winner.
The summer carnival provides an opportunity for NorthStar families to create new, lasting memories. Families get to play, laugh, dance, and be kids together without the weight of grief bearing down on them, even for just an afternoon.
One of the children in attendance said, “It helped me understand that I am still allowed to have fun, even though there’s a hole in my heart.”
A grateful parent reflected on the day and shared, “I am truly thankful that my son can connect with other children who understand the pain of losing someone they love. There’s an unfortunate comfort in knowing we are not alone.”
A special “thank you” to Community Credit Union, Chick-Fil-A, and St. Francis Reflections staff and volunteers for their support of our NorthStar – Child Grief Program and helping make events like the Summer Carnival such a fun event for all!