Newsletter

December 2025

Jessica's House Monthly

A message from our Executive Director

Dear Friends and Supporters,

December brings a season of lights, gatherings, and traditions but it can also bring an ache for the loved ones we miss. This time of year may stir memories that are both comforting and painful, and it’s okay to honor all of those feelings.

At Jessica’s House, we’ve seen the strength and resilience of families and children who continue to find ways to remember their loved ones and express their grief.

If you are looking for guidance this season, our podcast, When Grief Comes Home, offers two episodes that may be helpful: "Grieving Through the Holiday Season" and "How to Support a Griever During the Holidays." Both offer practical ideas for honoring the person who died while caring for yourself and your family.

As we head into the New Year, we hope you can find ways to hold onto the love you have for your loved ones you miss while also making space for comfort and connection.

Thank you for being part of this community. We wish you peace, warmth, and care this holiday season and in the year ahead.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Erin Nelson

Executive Director

Honoring the New Year with Gentle Intentions

The start of a new year can bring a mix of emotions. When you're grieving, the pressure to set big "resolutions" can feel daunting or even impossible. Instead, consider setting small gentle intentions that honor both your feelings and your loved one's memory.

These intentions might show up as taking a few moments each day to remember or journal about your person, practicing self-compassion even in small ways, like going for a walk, listening to music, or creating a ritual like lighting a candle in their memory. You might also simply sit with your feelings, giving yourself permission to feel and experience your emotions. 

When Grief Comes Home Podcast

Looking for support during the holidays? Check out our latest episodes of When Grief Comes Home:

· Episode 7 – Grieving Through the Holiday Season

· Episode 8 – How to Support a Griever During the Holidays

New episodes air every other Tuesday!

Please take a moment to write a written review and rate our podcast. 

Listen to When Grief Comes Home on your favorite podcast platform.

Program Highlights

Families We Supported Last Month

At Jessica's House, we honored 187 families—331 children, teens, and young adults and 214 adults—each carrying their own story of love and loss. Every group and conversation reminds us of the importance of having a safe place where hearts can be seen, heard, and supported.

If you or someone you know could use support, reach out to us at 209-250-5395 or info@jessicashouse.org

Family Fun on Ice

Our annual ice skating event at Fields of Ice was a beautiful evening full of smiles, connection and shared moments. We are grateful to our generous donors Kurt and Kelly McKenzie for making this special day possible. We were also glad to have Genesis the Therapy Dog join us, offering extra comfort to the families.

Event Highlights

Together in Gratitude

Our Heart Circle Holiday Social was a joyful evening full of warmth and connection. We are grateful to all of our donors who joined us and made this evening magical! A special thank you goes to our Youth Ambassador Chase, the Decor Darlings, the Stan State Men’s Basketball Team, In Good Taste Catering, Marilyn Days, Mobile Mixologist, and Alyssa Dawn Music. Your generosity and support brought comfort and joy to our families this holiday season!

Giving Highlights

2nd Annual "Warmies" Cuddles for Colten

Thanks to the Smith Family and Backroads Home & Gift, over 250 cozy Warmies are now ready to bring comfort to our new families. Every child who joins us for New Family Orientation will get to pick one of these special friends. We are so touched that the Smith Family chose to honor Colten’s memory with their second annual Warmie collection. Their generosity will bring comfort to so many new families at

Jessica’s House.

Stitched with Love

So much love in every stitch! We are incredibly grateful to the Pink Heel Ladies for hosting a Build-A-Bear fundraiser for Jessica's House. Each bear made with love to bring comfort to our families.